In 2010, the United States Mint launched a unique series of silver coins. This series, part of the America the Beautiful Quarters, featured designs of national parks and landmarks. The 2010 Hot Springs America the Beautiful 5 Oz. Silver Quarter was one of the first coins released. It features a design honoring Hot Springs National Park in Arkansas, a place rich in history and natural beauty. The coin weighs five ounces and is made from .999-fine silver, making it a valuable collector’s item.
About the Hot Springs in Arkansas
Hot Springs, Arkansas, has been famous for its natural hot springs for centuries. Native Americans valued the springs not only for their healing properties but also because of the high-quality novaculite (a type of stone) found in the area. This stone was used to make tools and weapons. The town of Hot Springs grew rapidly in the early 1800s, with settlers and tourists flocking to the area for health benefits. By the early 20th century, it had become a popular spa city, attracting famous figures such as Marilyn Monroe and Babe Ruth.
The Coin’s Design and Significance
The 2010 Hot Springs America the Beautiful Silver Quarter is part of a 12-year project that highlights the beauty of U.S. national parks. This 5 Oz. Silver Quarter is one of the first five-ounce silver coins released in this series. Other parks featured in the 2010 release included Yellowstone, Yosemite, Grand Canyon, and Mount Hood. Hot Springs was chosen due to its historical significance as a place of healing and its role in American history.
The Hot Springs America the Beautiful 5 Oz. Silver Quarter Details
This coin is not just a beautiful representation of Hot Springs National Park; it is also a rare collector’s item. The U.S. Mint produced a limited number of these coins, making them more valuable. The coin features intricate designs and a large diameter, making it stand out among other silver coins.
PCGS Grading and Population
The Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) tracks the number of these coins graded. As of May 2024, the mintages and populations of the Hot Springs silver quarter are as follows:
| Coin Type | Mintage | PCGS Population | Price Guide Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mint State (MS) | 33,000 | 1,828 | $245 |
| Special Strike (SP) | 28,788 | 1,442 | $275 |
| Satin Finish (SP70) | 51 | 4 | $500 |
The mintages are relatively low, which adds to the rarity of the coins, especially those with higher grades. The coin’s bullion content also increases its value, especially for investors and collectors looking for scarce and high-quality coins.
Why Collect the Hot Springs Silver Quarter?
For collectors, the Hot Springs America the Beautiful Quarter represents not only a piece of U.S. history but also an opportunity to own a rare and valuable coin. With low mintages and limited high-grade examples, this coin can be a great investment. Additionally, its design, celebrating one of the country’s oldest national parks, makes it an appealing piece for anyone interested in U.S. heritage and nature.
Conclusion
The 2010 Hot Springs America the Beautiful 5 Oz. Silver Quarter is a rare and valuable coin that honors the history and beauty of Hot Springs National Park in Arkansas. With limited mintages and its .999-fine silver content, it’s an appealing option for both collectors and investors. If you’re interested in U.S. history, national parks, or bullion coins, this coin is a must-have in your collection.
FAQ’s
What is the Hot Springs America the Beautiful Silver Quarter made of?
The coin is made from .999-fine silver and weighs five ounces.
What makes the Hot Springs Silver Quarter unique?
It is part of the America the Beautiful series and is one of the first five-ounce silver coins issued by the U.S. Mint.
How many of these coins were minted?
The U.S. Mint produced 33,000 of these coins, with only a small number graded at higher levels, making them rare and valuable.