1. Context and Introduction

The 2007 Montana quarter dollar is part of the popular 50 State Quarters Program in the United States. This program was launched to honor each of the 50 states as they joined the Union, and Montana’s coin was the 41st in the series. The coin was officially released on January 29, 2007.

2. Design and Specifications

Obverse (front): Like other quarters in the series, it features the bust of George Washington facing left, with the inscriptions “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” “QUARTER DOLLAR,” “LIBERTY,” and “IN GOD WE TRUST.”

Reverse (back): Montana’s reverse depicts a bison skull above a typical state landscape of mountains and plains, with the inscriptions “MONTANA,” “1889” (the year Montana was admitted as a state), and the motto “BIG SKY COUNTRY.” The design was created by Donna Weaver (reverse design) and sculpted by Don Everhart.

Technical specifications (clad version):

• Diameter: 24.26 mm
• Weight: 5.67 g
• Thickness: ~1.75–1.8 mm
• Composition: Copper‑nickel clad (≈ 91.67% copper, 8.33% nickel)
• Edge: Reeded

3. Mintage and Variants

• Philadelphia mint (P) – ~257,000,000 coins
• Denver mint (D) – ~256,240,000 coins (clad circulation)
• San Francisco mint (S) – proof versions in clad and 90% silver; the silver proof had around 1,313,481 coins minted

4. Numismatic Significance

• The Montana quarter is notable for its unique bison skull motif, reflecting the state’s Native American heritage and the “Big Sky Country” landscape.
• It was the first quarter released in 2007 within the series.
• While not extremely rare in circulation, it can attract collectors depending on condition, proof variants, silver issues, or minting errors.

5. Estimated Numismatic Value

The coin’s value depends on the mint, variant, and condition:

• Philadelphia (P) circulation coins: typically face value (≈ $0.25) and up to ~$1 in uncirculated condition.
• San Francisco (S) 90% silver proof: face value in circulation but can reach ~$10 in high-grade condition.
• Denver (D) or Philadelphia (P) uncirculated coins in top condition may fetch $1–$2 or more depending on certification and grade.

Summary: Common circulated coins are generally worth their face value. Proof or silver coins in excellent condition can carry significant added numismatic value.

6. Collector Tips and Preservation

• Check the mint mark and whether it’s a circulation or proof/silver variant.
• Condition is key: avoid scratches, folds, discoloration, or wear.
• Store in a dry, protected environment, ideally in a collector’s case.
• High-grade or proof coins may benefit from professional grading (PCGS or NGC).
• Numismatic value varies with market demand, rarity, and condition.

7. Conclusion

The 2007 Montana quarter represents an interesting chapter in the 50 State Quarters series, combining symbolic design, mass circulation, and collectible variants. While most coins in circulation are close to face value, collectors seeking high-grade, proof, or rare versions may find additional value.