The 2013-S Fort McHenry America the Beautiful Quarter is a unique coin that celebrates the historical significance of Fort McHenry in Baltimore, Maryland. Best known for inspiring the United States national anthem, “The Star-Spangled Banner,” Fort McHenry holds a special place in American history. This coin, part of the America the Beautiful Quarters program, commemorates the site and its importance in U.S. heritage.
What is the America the Beautiful Quarters Program?
The America the Beautiful Quarters Program followed the popular 50 State Quarters Program, celebrating national parks and historical sites across the United States. Authorized by the America the Beautiful National Parks Quarter Dollar Coin Act of 2008, this program highlights one significant site per state, along with sites in Washington, D.C., and U.S. territories. The coins are issued in the order that the locations were first established as national parks or historical sites.
Background of Fort McHenry
Fort McHenry is famous for its role in the War of 1812, where it defended Baltimore Harbor from a British attack. During the Battle of Baltimore, lawyer Francis Scott Key wrote the poem that would later become the national anthem. The fort became a National Historic Shrine in 1931 and remains a celebrated site today. The Fort McHenry Quarter was released on August 26, 2013, as part of the America the Beautiful series.
Design of the 2013-S Fort McHenry Quarter
Obverse (Front Side)
The front side of the coin features a modified design of George Washington, created by sculptor John Flanagan. Washington’s left-facing bust is at the center, surrounded by the inscriptions “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” “LIBERTY,” “IN GOD WE TRUST,” and “QUARTER DOLLAR.”
Reverse (Back Side)
The reverse, created by Joseph Menna, shows Fort McHenry during the annual “Defenders Day” celebration, complete with fireworks. This design captures the celebration rather than the original “rocket’s red glare” of the British attack. The words “FORT McHENRY,” “MARYLAND,” “2013,” and “E PLURIBUS UNUM” encircle the bottom of the design.
Edge
The 2013-S Fort McHenry Quarter has a reeded (ridged) edge, which is standard for quarters in the United States.
Collecting the 2013-S Fort McHenry Quarter
With over 1.3 million minted, this quarter is widely available, but rare coins with high grades can be valuable. Here’s a breakdown of market data for this coin:
| Condition | Seller | Date | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| PCGS MS66 | eBay | August 1, 2024 | $16.95 |
| Uncirculated Roll (40 coins) | eBay | October 2, 2024 | $24.95 |
| Mint Sewn Bag (100 coins) | eBay | August 15, 2024 | $45.00 |
| Mint Sealed Roll (40 coins) | eBay | July 30, 2024 | $19.95 |
High-quality coins in MS68 or above can be worth much more. The top PCGS grade is MS68, with 18 coins currently recorded at this grade.
About the Designers
John Flanagan (Obverse Designer)
John Flanagan designed the Washington Quarter, first released in 1932. He was also known for creating numerous historical medals and sculptures, including the official Verdun medal.
Joseph Menna (Reverse Designer)
Joseph Menna, Chief Engraver at the United States Mint, designed the Fort McHenry Quarter’s reverse. Menna joined the Mint in 2005 and has designed over 30 coins and medals, with many notable creations in the America the Beautiful series.
Final Thoughts
The 2013-S Fort McHenry Quarter is a beautiful coin with a rich historical theme, making it a great choice for both beginner and seasoned collectors. Its design honors a pivotal moment in American history and the place that inspired the national anthem. While common versions of this coin are affordable, high-grade or unique error coins can be worth significantly more.
Whether you’re new to collecting or adding to a seasoned collection, the Fort McHenry quarter offers a little bit of history, art, and American pride in one small coin.
FAQ’s
What is the 2013-S Fort McHenry Quarter?
The 2013-S Fort McHenry Quarter is part of the America the Beautiful series, commemorating Fort McHenry, a key site in American history where the national anthem was inspired.
How much is the 2013-S Fort McHenry Quarter worth?
Most are valued around face value, but higher-quality coins or rare finds can range from $16 to over $40, depending on condition and demand.
Who designed the 2013-S Fort McHenry Quarter?
The obverse was designed by John Flanagan, featuring George Washington, while the reverse, showcasing Fort McHenry, was designed by Joseph Menna.