2017-P 5 oz ATB Effigy Mounds Silver Coin PCGS SP70

Nestled along the bluffs of northeastern Iowa, overlooking the mighty Mississippi River, lies a sacred landscape that has captivated human imagination for millennia. The Effigy Mounds National Monument, established in 1949, preserves one of the largest concentrations of ancient Native American burial mounds in the United States. These earthen structures, some shaped like bears and birds, stand as silent sentinels to a rich cultural heritage that spans over 2,500 years.

The moundbuilding tradition in this region began around 500 BCE, with the earliest structures taking simple conical forms. However, it was during the Late Woodland period, between 700-1100 CE, that the distinctive effigy mounds emerged. These animal-shaped earthworks, unique to the Upper Midwest, are believed to have served multiple purposes – from burial sites to ceremonial grounds, and possibly as territorial markers for different clans.

The bear and bird effigies found at Effigy Mounds hold deep symbolic significance. In many Native American traditions, the bear is revered as the guardian of the earth, while birds are seen as messengers between the earthly and spiritual realms. These mounds may have been a way for ancient peoples to connect with their spirit world and ancestors, creating a physical bridge between the terrestrial and the divine.

As European explorers and settlers arrived in the region in the 17th and 18th centuries, the moundbuilding culture had long since faded. Yet, the legacy of these ancient earthworks endured. Early archaeologists and curious settlers documented over 10,000 mounds across the region. Tragically, as land was cleared for agriculture and development, many of these sacred sites were lost. Today, fewer than 1,000 mounds remain, making the preservation efforts at Effigy Mounds National Monument all the more crucial.

The monument not only protects these ancient earthworks but also serves as a living museum of the region's natural history. The landscape features a diverse ecosystem of hardwood forests, tallgrass prairies, and wetlands. This biodiversity mirrors the rich cultural tapestry of the peoples who once called this land home, from the earliest Paleoindian hunters to the later Oneota culture, believed to be the ancestors of many modern Native American tribes.

In honoring this sacred landscape, we not only preserve a remarkable piece of America's prehistoric past but also celebrate the enduring spirit of the Native peoples who shaped this land. The Effigy Mounds stand as a testament to human creativity, spiritual expression, and our deep connection to the natural world – a legacy that continues to inspire and educate to this day.

Design Features

The 2017-P 5 oz ATB Effigy Mounds Silver Coin beautifully captures the essence of this ancient landscape. The obverse features the iconic portrait of George Washington, based on the original sculpture by John Flanagan. This classic design, which has graced U.S. quarters since 1932, provides a familiar anchor to this commemorative piece.

The reverse of the coin is where the true magic of Effigy Mounds comes to life. It depicts an aerial view of the Great Bear Mound Group, one of the most significant effigy mound formations within the monument. The intricate design showcases three bear mounds, their elongated forms clearly visible against the textured background that represents the surrounding forest. This perspective offers a unique view that few visitors to the actual site would ever experience, highlighting the impressive scale and precision of these ancient earthworks.

Surrounding the mound depiction are the inscriptions "EFFIGY MOUNDS," "IOWA," "2017," and "E PLURIBUS UNUM." The inclusion of the state and date grounds the coin in its specific place and time, while the Latin motto – meaning "Out of Many, One" – serves as a poignant reminder of the diverse cultures that have shaped America's history.

Product Highlights

• Metal Type: SILVER – Hedge
• Purity: 0.999
• Weight: 5 oz
• Manufacturer: United States Mint
• Mint Mark: P – Philadelphia
• Grading Service: PCGS
• IRA Eligible: No
• Obverse: Portrait of George Washington
• Reverse: Aerial view of the Great Bear Mound Group at Effigy Mounds National Monument

Investment Appeal

The 2017-P 5 oz ATB Effigy Mounds Silver Coin represents an exceptional opportunity for both numismatists and investors. Its high silver purity of 0.999 ensures intrinsic value, while the limited mintage enhances its collectible appeal. As part of the America the Beautiful series, this coin benefits from the prestige and recognition associated with U.S. Mint products.

The coin's unique design, featuring the rarely depicted Effigy Mounds, sets it apart in the numismatic world. This distinctiveness can drive demand among collectors, potentially increasing its value over time. Furthermore, the PCGS SP70 grade guarantees the coin's pristine condition, adding an extra layer of assurance for discerning collectors.

For investors, the 5 oz weight offers a substantial silver holding in a single, government-backed coin. This combination of collectible appeal and precious metal content provides a balanced investment approach, suitable for diversifying portfolios or as a hedge against economic uncertainty.

In acquiring this coin, collectors and investors not only secure a piece of numismatic art but also participate in preserving and honoring an important chapter of America's ancient history. It serves as a tangible connection to the rich cultural heritage of Native American moundbuilders, making it a truly meaningful addition to any collection.