The 2017-D Ozark Riverways Quarter is worth anywhere from $0.25 in circulated condition to over $100 in high-grade Mint State. While most of these coins found in your change are only worth face value, certain error coins and pristine specimens can fetch a surprising premium from coin collectors today.
| Condition | Estimated Value |
|---|---|
| Circulated (Average) | $0.25 |
| Uncirculated (MS63) | $1.00 – $3.00 |
| Choice Uncirculated (MS65) | $5.00 – $12.00 |
| Gem Mint (MS67+) | $40.00 – $150.00+ |
Understanding the History of the 2017-D Ozark Riverways Quarter
If you’ve recently looked through your pocket change and spotted a quarter featuring a picturesque mill and a flowing river, you have found the 2017 Ozark National Scenic Riverways quarter. Released as the 38th coin in the United States Mint’s “America the Beautiful” (ATB) series, this design honors the breathtaking river system in Missouri. The “D” mint mark located on the obverse (front) of the coin signifies that it was produced at the Denver Mint.
Identifying these coins is easy if you use a best coin identifier app, which can instantly tell you which mint produced your coin and what specific features to look for. During 2017, the Denver Mint struck millions of these quarters, making them very common in daily transactions across America.
While the majority of these 2017-D quarters were intended for commerce, collectors pay close attention to the quality of the strike. Because high-volume production often results in “bag marks” or scratches from coins hitting each other, finding one in perfect condition is quite rare. If you believe you have a particularly shiny or flawless version, it is worth using the CoinHix app to compare your find against high-grade auction records.
Analyzing the 2017-D Ozark Riverways Quarter Value by Grade
When determining the value of your common 2017 quarters, “Grade” is the most important factor. Grade refers to the physical condition of the coin on a scale from 1 to 70. Most 2017-D Ozark Riverways quarters found in circulation are graded around EF (Extremely Fine) or AU (About Uncirculated). Unfortunately, at these levels, the coin is generally only worth its face value of twenty-five cents.
However, the price jump occurs once you enter “Mint State” (MS) territory. These are coins that never made it into general circulation and still have their original “mint luster” or shine. A coin graded MS66 or MS67 can sell for much more than a quarter. For those looking for precise data, checking the current Ozark Riverways quarter price guide is the best way to stay updated on what collectors are currently paying.
The market for modern quarters is highly dependent on third-party grading services like PCGS or NGC. If your coin is encased in a plastic slab with a high grade, its value is significantly higher than a “raw” coin. Always remember that minor imperfections invisible to the naked eye can drastically change the price of the coin.
| Grade Designation | Description | Approximate Price |
|---|---|---|
| MS63 | Typical strike, some marks | $1.50 |
| MS65 | Strong strike, few marks | $8.00 |
| MS67 | Superb strike, nearly perfect | $45.00 |
| MS68 | Virtual perfection, very rare | $150.00+ |
Key Characteristics and Design of the Ozark Riverways Quarter
The reverse design of the 2017-D quarter was created by artist Ronald D. Sanders and sculpted by Renata Gordon. It features Alley Mill, a steel roller mill built in 1894. This mill was used to convert wheat into flour and is now a central landmark of the Ozark National Scenic Riverways in Missouri. The design is intricate, showing the mill’s windows, the texture of the roof, and the flowing water of the spring.
When inspecting your coin, look for the crispness of the letters in “OZARK RIVERWAYS” and “MISSOURI.” On higher-value specimens, the details of the trees surrounding the mill should be sharp. If the coin looks dull or fatty, it has likely been worn down by years of being passed from hand to hand.
While the Denver (“D”) and Philadelphia (“P”) mint marks are the most common, collectors should also be aware of the San Francisco (“S”) mint versions. To learn more about identifying different mint marks and their impact on market prices, you can check this comprehensive 2017 quarter value overview. Knowing these small details can be the difference between spending a valuable coin and keeping it for your collection.
Searching for 2017-D Ozark Riverways Quarter Errors
Many everyday Americans get excited about “error coins.” These occur when something goes wrong during the minting process at the Denver Mint. For the 2017-D Ozark Riverways quarter, several minor errors have been reported, although none have reached the legendary status of older rarities.
Common errors to look for include “Die Chips” or “Die Cracks.” These appear as small, raised bumps of extra metal on the surface of the coin where the metal die began to break. On the Ozark design, these often appear around the edges of the mill or in the water. Another error is the “Doubled Die,” where parts of the design appear slightly blurry or doubled.
If you find a coin that looks “weird,” don’t clean it! Cleaning a coin can destroy its numismatic value instantly. Instead, use the CoinHix app to take a clear photo and see if other collectors have identified similar errors. Error coins can often sell for $10 to $50, even if the rest of the coin is in average condition.
| Error Type | What to Look For | Potential Value |
|---|---|---|
| Die Chip | Small bumps on the mill or trees | $5 – $15 |
| Off-Center Strike | Design is shifted to one side | $20 – $100+ |
| Obverse Die Crack | Raised line through Washington’s head | $10 – $30 |
Mintages: How Many 2017-D Quarters Were Made?
Production numbers (mintages) are a key driver of coin value. Generally, the lower the mintage, the higher the potential value. For the 2017-D Ozark Riverways quarter, the Denver Mint produced 440,800,000 coins. This is a very high number, which is why most of these coins are only worth 25 cents today.
In comparison, the Philadelphia Mint produced 462,000,000. Because both mints produced nearly half a billion coins each, they are not considered “key dates” or rare coins. However, this high production actually makes high-grade specimens more interesting. Because so many were made and used, finding one that survived in perfect condition becomes a challenge for serious collectors.
If you are a beginner, it is helpful to use CoinHix to track which ATB quarters you have collected. Many people enjoy trying to find one from every mint for every year. While the 2017-D might not make you rich today, it is a beautiful piece of American history that serves as a great starting point for a coin collection.
Conclusion: Should You Keep Your 2017-D Quarters?
Determining whether to keep a 2017-D Ozark Riverways quarter depends on your goals. If you are looking for a quick profit, a standard circulated quarter from your pocket is likely not worth more than its face value. However, if you find one that looks exceptionally shiny—as if it were just minted yesterday—it might be worth setting aside in a protective flip or coin folder.
The “America the Beautiful” series is one of the most popular sets for new collectors. Because the series ended in 2021, interest in these coins is expected to grow over the next decade. Keeping a “D” and “P” mint set in high grade is a low-cost way to enjoy the hobby. Always keep an eye out for those subtle errors and high-grade lusters that move a coin from “pocket change” to “collector’s item.”
FAQ
Q: Where is the mint mark on the 2017-D Ozark Riverways Quarter?
A: The mint mark is located on the obverse (front) of the coin, to the right of George Washington’s ponytail and just below the “In God We Trust” motto. A “D” indicates it was minted in Denver.
Q: Is there a silver version of the 2017 Ozark Riverways Quarter?
A: Yes, but not for general circulation. The U.S. Mint produced silver proof versions (90% silver) at the San Francisco Mint for collectors. These have an “S” mint mark and a much higher value, usually $10-$15 or more depending on silver spot prices.
Q: How can I tell if my 2017-D quarter is an uncirculated grade?
A: An uncirculated (Mint State) coin will have no signs of wear on the highest points of the design, such as Washington’s cheek or the roof of the Alley Mill. It should also possess “mint luster,” a frosty or satin-like sheen that reflects light in a fan-like pattern when rotated.
Q: Are there any “W” mint mark Ozark Riverways quarters?
A: No. The West Point Mint (“W”) did not begin producing circulating quarters for the Great American Coin Hunt until 2019. For 2017, you will only find P, D, and S mint marks.