Ozark National Scenic Riverways – Missouri

Ozark National Scenic Riverways – Missouri

Many of the nation’s collectors and American history enthusiasts seek the added value of a pristine uncirculated quarter from each mint. As circulated quarters continue to be difficult to find, these collections will become a premium item. The Ozark National Scenic Riverways is the third quarter of 2017.

The reverse depicts Alley Mill, a steel roller mill built in 1894.

Ozark Riverways Quarter – Missouri (2017) 

Celebrate the natural beauty, historic mills, and spring‑fed rivers of the Missouri Ozarks with the Ozark National Scenic Riverways Quarter, the third release of 2017 in the U.S. Mint’s acclaimed America the Beautiful Quarters Program. This uncirculated collectible honors Ozark National Scenic Riverways, the first national park area in the United States created to protect a river system. For collectors, outdoor enthusiasts, and admirers of American history, this quarter offers exceptional artistry, regional heritage, and long‑term collectible value.

A Premium Uncirculated Quarter for Discerning Collectors

As pristine uncirculated quarters become increasingly difficult to find in circulation, collectors across the nation are turning to mint‑condition examples to complete their America the Beautiful sets. Uncirculated coins retain their original luster, sharp detail, and untouched surfaces, making them far more desirable than circulated pieces. With demand rising and availability tightening, uncirculated national park quarters—especially mid‑series releases like the Ozark Quarter—are quickly becoming premium items in the numismatic community.

Honoring Ozark National Scenic Riverways – America’s First Riverways Park

Established in 1964, Ozark National Scenic Riverways protects more than 80,000 acres of rugged forest, limestone bluffs, and crystal‑clear rivers in southeastern Missouri. The park preserves two of the most famous spring‑fed rivers in the Midwest—the Current River and the Jacks Fork River—both renowned for their pristine waters, scenic float trips, and abundant wildlife.

The creation of the park marked a major milestone in American conservation history. It was the first national park area dedicated specifically to protecting a river system, ensuring that future generations could enjoy the Ozarks’ natural beauty and recreational opportunities. Today, the park is home to:

• Over 300 documented caves, including some of the largest in Missouri
• Historic mills and homesteads, reflecting 19th‑century Ozark culture
• Wildlife such as river otters, bald eagles, deer, and diverse fish species
• Popular outdoor activities, including canoeing, hiking, fishing, and camping

The park’s blend of natural splendor and cultural heritage makes it one of the most beloved destinations in the Midwest.

A Reverse Design Featuring Alley Mill – A Missouri Landmark

The reverse of the Ozark National Scenic Riverways Quarter features a beautifully detailed depiction of Alley Mill, one of the most iconic and photographed structures in the Ozarks. Built in 1894, this bright red steel roller mill stands along Alley Spring, where its powerful waters once turned the machinery that ground grain for local communities.

The design includes:

• Alley Mill – A historic symbol of Ozark ingenuity and rural life.
• Alley Spring – The vibrant turquoise waters that powered the mill and continue to draw visitors today.
• Natural Vegetation – Representing the lush forests and plant life that surround the mill and riverways.

Alley Mill is more than a picturesque landmark—it is a window into the daily lives of 19th‑century Ozark residents. Mills like this served as essential community hubs, providing flour, cornmeal, and social connection for isolated rural families. The mill’s preservation within the national park allows visitors to experience a piece of Missouri’s cultural and industrial history.

A Key Release in the America the Beautiful Quarters Program

Launched in 2010, the America the Beautiful Quarters Program honored 56 national parks and historic sites across the United States and its territories. The Ozark National Scenic Riverways Quarter, released in 2017, is part of the program’s middle years—making it especially desirable for collectors who appreciate the full progression of the series.

Collectors value this quarter for its:

• Strong historical and environmental significance
• Striking and nostalgic reverse design
• Connection to Missouri’s natural and cultural heritage
• Premium appeal in uncirculated condition
• Importance as the third release of 2017

Ideal for Collectors, Educators, and Nature Enthusiasts

This Ozark National Scenic Riverways Quarter is perfect for:

• National park collectors
• America the Beautiful quarter enthusiasts
• Teachers and students studying U.S. geography or conservation
• Families building state or park‑themed coin collections
• Gift‑givers seeking meaningful, educational keepsakes

Its design and historical context make it a compelling addition to any display or educational setting.