2014-P 5 oz ATB Everglades Silver Coin NGC SP70

A Tribute to America’s River of Grass

In the heart of Florida's southern tip lies a unique ecosystem, a river that flows not in a defined channel but across a vast expanse of sawgrass marshes and mangrove swamps. This is the Everglades, often called the "River of Grass," a natural wonder that has captivated explorers, conservationists, and nature enthusiasts for centuries. The 2014-P 5 oz ATB Everglades Silver Coin NGC SP70 pays homage to this extraordinary landscape, capturing its essence in precious metal.

The story of the Everglades is one of resilience and transformation. For millennia, the region was home to indigenous peoples who lived in harmony with its unique ecology. The Calusa, Tequesta, and later the Seminole tribes navigated its waterways in dugout canoes, fishing its abundant waters and building settlements on the higher ground. These early inhabitants understood the delicate balance of the ecosystem, respecting its rhythms and cycles.

As European settlers arrived in Florida, the perception of the Everglades began to shift. Initially viewed as a worthless swamp, it wasn't long before ambitious developers saw potential in draining the wetlands for agriculture and urban expansion. This threat to the Everglades' existence sparked a conservation movement that would ultimately lead to its protection.

Enter Marjory Stoneman Douglas, a journalist and conservationist whose 1947 book "The Everglades: River of Grass" changed public perception of the region. Douglas's vivid descriptions and impassioned advocacy helped people see the Everglades not as a useless swamp, but as a vital, interconnected ecosystem worthy of preservation. Her work was instrumental in the establishment of Everglades National Park, dedicated by President Harry Truman in December 1947.

Today, the Everglades stands as a testament to the power of conservation and the importance of protecting our natural heritage. It is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including the endangered Florida panther, the American crocodile, and countless species of wading birds. The park's designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and International Biosphere Reserve underscores its global significance.

The 2014-P 5 oz ATB Everglades Silver Coin NGC SP70 encapsulates this rich history and ecological importance. It serves not just as a collectible piece, but as a tangible connection to one of America's most unique and vital ecosystems. Each time you hold this coin, you hold a piece of the Everglades' story – a story of nature's resilience, human conservation efforts, and the delicate balance between progress and preservation.

Design Features

The obverse of the 2014-P 5 oz ATB Everglades Silver Coin features the iconic portrait of George Washington, first President of the United States. This classic design, created by John Flanagan in 1932, has been a staple of American coinage for decades. Washington's profile faces left, his expression dignified and resolute. The inscriptions "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA," "LIBERTY," "IN GOD WE TRUST," and "QUARTER DOLLAR" encircle the portrait, grounding the coin in its American heritage.

The reverse side of the coin is where the Everglades truly come to life. The design showcases a scene that captures the essence of this unique ecosystem. In the foreground, two graceful anhinga birds wade through the shallow waters. These birds, sometimes called snakebirds due to their long, sinuous necks, are emblematic of the Everglades' diverse avian population. Behind them, a stand of sawgrass rises from the water, representing the vast "river of grass" that gives the Everglades its nickname. In the background, the silhouette of a roseate spoonbill in flight completes the scene, its distinctive spoon-shaped bill clearly visible. The inscriptions "EVERGLADES," "FLORIDA," "2014," and "E PLURIBUS UNUM" frame this evocative tableau, along with the artist's initials.

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: Anhinga birds in Everglades landscape with roseate spoonbill

Investment Appeal

The 2014-P 5 oz ATB Everglades Silver Coin NGC SP70 presents a compelling opportunity for both collectors and investors. Its high purity of .999 fine silver ensures intrinsic value, while its substantial 5 oz weight provides a significant precious metal holding. The coin's status as part of the America the Beautiful series, celebrating national parks and sites, adds collectible appeal that may appreciate over time.

The perfect SP70 grade from NGC, a leading third-party grading service, attests to the coin's flawless condition. This pristine state not only enhances its aesthetic appeal but also its potential long-term value. Collectors of the America the Beautiful series will find this Everglades edition a must-have, representing one of America's most unique and ecologically significant national parks.

Moreover, as awareness of environmental conservation grows, coins celebrating natural wonders like the Everglades may see increased demand. This coin serves as both a beautiful collectible and a tangible reminder of the importance of preserving our natural heritage, potentially appealing to a broader audience beyond traditional numismatists.

In essence, this coin offers a blend of precious metal investment, numismatic collectibility, and cultural significance. It's not just a piece of silver, but a slice of American natural history, captured in exquisite detail and preserved in a perfect state. Whether you're expanding your America the Beautiful collection, diversifying your precious metal portfolio, or seeking a unique gift that combines beauty and value, the 2014-P 5 oz ATB Everglades Silver Coin NGC SP70 presents an attractive option.