Quarter Dollar 2017 Ozark Riverways, Coin from United States - detailed information

The Quarter Dollar is a United States coin worth 25 cents. It has been produced on and off since 1796 and consistently since 1831. From its inception until 1964, the denomination was issued in silver; it underwent several design changes, including finally the silver Washington quarter (1932 - 1964) featuring the first President of the United States on the obverse and the American Eagle clutching a bunch of arrows on the reverse. Initially meant as a one-year design to commemorate 200 years since the birth of George Washington in 1932, the obverse became the definitive design for the denomination and has been used ever since. The reverse was issued in this form until 1998, after which time a large number of circulating commemoratives started being issued instead; the State Quarters series of 50 coins featuring each State was issued from 1999 to 2008; in 2009, a six-coin series represented the District of Columbia and five US territories.

The America the Beautiful Quarters Program (abbreviated ATB) running from 2010 until 2021 was then introduced; it is a 56 quarter-dollar coin series featuring designs depicting national parks and other national sites in each state, federal district or territory.

The Ozark National Scenic Riverways quarter is the third to be released in 2017 and the 38th overall in the America the Beautiful Quarters Program; it was released on 5 June 2017 and represents the state of Missouri.

Ozark National Scenic Riverways was established in 1964 to protect 134 miles of the Current and Jacks Fork Rivers in the Ozark Highlands of southeastern Missouri. The park encompasses 80,785 acres of unique natural resources, including a world-class spring system that is unparalleled in North America, more than 400 caves, and other special geologic features. The rivers offer remarkably clean, clear water that is complemented by the breathtaking blue shade of the waters of the large springs. The spectacular natural beauty of the area attracts park visitors to participate in a variety of recreational opportunities, such as john boating, canoeing, swimming, and fishing. Hiking, hunting, and horseback riding are also enjoyed across the landscape.

In addition to the unique natural features of the Ozarks, the National Park Service preserves the heritage and lifeways of the Ozark culture, which was heavily shaped by the remote and rugged landscape. The park manages 249 historic structures that are scattered throughout the park and also preserves the history and remnants of prehistoric peoples who settled in the region during the past 12,000 years.

Ozark National Scenic Riverways (Missouri) Quarter Dollars issued in 2017 have now been in circulation for eight years.