2013-P 5 oz ATB Fort McHenry Silver Coin NGC SP70

The star-shaped bastion of Fort McHenry stands as a silent sentinel, its brick walls echoing with the thunderous bombardment that once rained down upon Baltimore Harbor. On that fateful night of September 13, 1814, as the British Royal Navy unleashed its fury, a young lawyer named Francis Scott Key anxiously watched from aboard a ship. As dawn broke on September 14, the sight that greeted him would forever change the course of American history – the enormous garrison flag still waving defiantly over Fort McHenry.

This pivotal moment in the War of 1812 not only secured Baltimore's safety but also birthed what would become the United States' national anthem. Key, inspired by the fort's resilience and the flag's endurance, penned the immortal words of "The Star-Spangled Banner." The 15-star, 15-stripe flag that flew that day, now known as the Star-Spangled Banner Flag, has become an enduring symbol of American perseverance and pride.

Fort McHenry's history, however, extends far beyond this singular event. Originally built between 1798 and 1800, the fort was part of the First System of US coastal fortifications, designed to protect the burgeoning nation's vital harbors. Named after James McHenry, a prominent Maryland statesman and signer of the US Constitution, the fort's unique pentagonal design was crafted to provide an interlocking field of fire against potential invaders.

Throughout the 19th century, Fort McHenry continued to play a significant role in American military history. During the Civil War, it served as a prison for Confederate soldiers and political figures, including Baltimore's mayor and police commissioner. This period also saw the fort at the center of a constitutional crisis when President Abraham Lincoln suspended the writ of habeas corpus, leading to the landmark Ex parte Merryman case.

In the 20th century, Fort McHenry transitioned from an active military installation to a national monument and historic shrine. Its grounds, which once echoed with the sounds of soldiers and cannon fire, now serve as a place of reflection and education. Visitors can walk the same ramparts where brave defenders once stood, gaining a tangible connection to the events that shaped the nation's identity and values.

Today, Fort McHenry stands not just as a testament to military engineering or a single battle's outcome, but as a powerful symbol of American resilience, ingenuity, and the enduring spirit of freedom. Its story, immortalized in coin and song, continues to inspire generations of Americans and visitors from around the world.

Design Features

The 2013-P 5 oz ATB Fort McHenry Silver Coin beautifully captures the essence of this historic site. The obverse features the iconic portrait of George Washington, meticulously rendered to honor the first President's legacy. This classic design, originally created by John Flanagan for the 1932 Washington quarter, has been adapted for this larger format, allowing for exquisite detail in Washington's noble profile.

On the reverse, the coin presents a striking depiction of Fort McHenry during the pivotal bombardment of 1814. The design showcases the fort's distinctive star shape, with its walls standing firm against the onslaught. In the foreground, a sailor pulls on a rope, symbolizing the raising of the American flag that inspired Francis Scott Key. The scene is framed by the words "Fort McHenry," "Maryland," "2013," and "E Pluribus Unum," creating a harmonious balance of text and imagery.

The coin's large 5 oz format allows for exceptional depth and detail in the relief, bringing to life the fort's architecture and the drama of the historical moment. The frosted finish of the design elements contrasts beautifully with the coin's mirrored background, enhancing its visual appeal and collector value.

Product Highlights

• Metal Type: SILVER – Hedge
• Purity: 0.999
• Weight: 5 oz
• Manufacturer: United States Mint
• Mint Mark: P – Philadelphia
• Grading Service: NGC
• IRA Eligible: No
• Obverse: Portrait of George Washington
• Reverse: Depiction of Fort McHenry during the 1814 bombardment

Investment Appeal

The 2013-P 5 oz ATB Fort McHenry Silver Coin represents an exceptional opportunity for both numismatists and investors. Its high silver content and purity make it a tangible store of value, while its limited mintage enhances its numismatic appeal. As part of the America the Beautiful series, this coin benefits from the prestige and collectibility associated with US Mint products.

The coin's historical significance adds another layer of value. Fort McHenry's role in American history, particularly as the inspiration for the national anthem, imbues this piece with cultural importance that transcends its precious metal content. This combination of intrinsic and historical value makes the coin an attractive option for diversifying investment portfolios.

Moreover, the coin's impeccable SP70 grade from NGC, one of the most respected grading services, ensures its pristine condition. This perfect grade not only guarantees the coin's quality but also potentially enhances its long-term appreciation potential.

For collectors, this coin offers a chance to own a piece of American history in a format that showcases the artistry of modern minting techniques. Its large size allows for appreciation of fine details that might be lost on smaller coins, making it a showpiece in any collection.

In sum, the 2013-P 5 oz ATB Fort McHenry Silver Coin stands as a testament to American resilience, a store of precious metal value, and a work of numismatic art. Whether as an investment in silver, a collection centerpiece, or a tangible connection to pivotal moments in US history, this coin offers enduring value and appeal.