2016-P 5 oz ATB Fort Moultrie Silver Coin NGC SP70

A Fortress of Freedom: The Legacy of Fort Moultrie

On the shores of Sullivan's Island, South Carolina, stands a testament to American resilience and ingenuity: Fort Moultrie. This historic fortification, immortalized in the 2016 America the Beautiful Silver Coin series, played a pivotal role in shaping the nation's destiny. In June 1776, as the flames of revolution burned across the colonies, an incomplete fort of palmetto logs and sand faced the might of the British Navy. Under the command of Colonel William Moultrie, for whom the fort would later be named, a small band of patriots stood their ground against a formidable fleet led by Commodore Sir Peter Parker.

The battle that ensued on June 28, 1776, would become a defining moment in American history. For nine grueling hours, the defenders of Charleston repelled the British assault, their fortifications proving surprisingly resilient. The soft, spongy palmetto logs absorbed the impact of cannonballs, while return fire from the fort inflicted significant damage on the British ships. As the smoke cleared and the battered Royal Navy retreated, the victorious Americans had not only saved Charleston but had also dealt a significant blow to British morale.

This triumph at Fort Moultrie reverberated throughout the colonies, igniting hope and bolstering the revolutionary cause. The fort's successful defense became a powerful symbol of American determination and resourcefulness. The battle also gave birth to the iconic Moultrie Flag – a blue banner featuring a white crescent moon and the word "LIBERTY" – which would later inspire the design of South Carolina's state flag.

Fort Moultrie's story, however, did not end with the Revolutionary War. Over the next two centuries, the fort evolved to meet changing threats, serving as a vital coastal defense through multiple conflicts. It witnessed the tensions leading up to the Civil War, played a role in both World Wars, and stood as a silent sentinel during the Cold War era. Each phase of its history reflects the broader narrative of America's journey as a nation.

Today, Fort Moultrie stands not only as a physical reminder of America's past but as a symbol of the enduring spirit of liberty. Its walls have weathered storms both literal and metaphorical, adapting and persevering much like the nation it was built to defend. The fort's inclusion in the America the Beautiful series serves to commemorate this rich history and to ensure that future generations will remember the sacrifices and triumphs that occurred on this hallowed ground.

A Coin Worthy of History

The 2016-P 5 oz ATB Fort Moultrie Silver Coin captures the essence of this historic site with stunning artistry. The obverse features the familiar portrait of George Washington, a fitting tribute to the first President and a contemporary of the fort's early days. John Flanagan's classic design, based on Jean-Antoine Houdon's 1786 bust, brings the Father of the Nation to life in exquisite detail.

On the reverse, Fort Moultrie takes center stage, showcasing its evolution over time. The design ingeniously depicts three stages of the fort's history: a soldier from the Revolutionary War era stands in the foreground, representing the original palmetto log fort; behind him, a Civil War-era cannon symbolizes the fort's role in that conflict; and in the background, the World War II-era fort stands resolute. This layered composition not only illustrates the fort's physical changes but also its enduring importance through different periods of American history.

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 Moultrie through three historical periods

A Treasure for Collectors and Investors

The 2016-P 5 oz ATB Fort Moultrie Silver Coin represents more than just a piece of numismatic art; it's a tangible connection to American history and a solid investment in precious metals. Its high silver purity of 0.999 ensures intrinsic value, while its limited mintage as part of the America the Beautiful series adds numismatic premium. The coin's large 5 oz size provides a substantial silver holding, appealing to both collectors seeking impressive display pieces and investors looking to diversify their portfolios.

The historical significance of Fort Moultrie, combined with the coin's exceptional craftsmanship, creates a piece that is likely to appreciate in both historical and monetary value over time. For numismatists, this coin offers a unique opportunity to own a slice of American heritage, beautifully rendered in silver. Its perfect NGC SP70 grade ensures that every detail of this masterpiece is preserved in flawless condition, making it a true collector's item.

Whether you're a seasoned collector, a history enthusiast, or an investor seeking to diversify with precious metals, the 2016-P 5 oz ATB Fort Moultrie Silver Coin stands as a remarkable addition to any collection. It's not just a coin; it's a piece of America's story, waiting to become part of yours.