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The Certified Commemorative Dollar 2005-P Marines MS70 NGC honors one of the most storied branches of the United States military, the United States Marine Corps. Issued by the U.S. Mint to mark the 230th anniversary of the Corps’ founding in 1775, this silver dollar captures the valor, history, and legacy of the Marines with powerful imagery and patriotic design. Struck at the Philadelphia Mint and certified in perfect Mint State 70 (MS70) condition by Numismatic Guaranty Company (NGC), this coin represents the highest level of preservation, with no visible imperfections even under magnification.
The 2005 Marine Corps Silver Dollar is historically notable as the first United States coin to directly commemorate a branch of the military. It was authorized by Public Law 108–291 and released to great acclaim among collectors, veterans, and active-duty servicemembers alike. The coin’s release coincided with a period of renewed national focus on military service, especially with American troops actively deployed abroad, and served as a symbol of respect and remembrance for the contributions of the Marine Corps over more than two centuries.
The obverse of the coin features a detailed and stirring design of the iconic flag raising at Iwo Jima, one of the most recognized images in American military history. Adapted from Joe Rosenthal’s Pulitzer Prize-winning photograph taken during World War II, the design was sculpted by U.S. Mint Sculptor-Engraver Norman E. Nemeth. It depicts six Marines raising the U.S. flag atop Mount Suribachi, capturing a moment of triumph and sacrifice. Inscriptions include “LIBERTY,” “IN GOD WE TRUST,” “MARINES,” and the year “2005.” The image resonates deeply with both collectors and the military community, symbolizing courage, unity, and victory in the face of overwhelming adversity.
The reverse design, created by Charles L. Vickers, features the official emblem of the U.S. Marine Corps: the Eagle, Globe, and Anchor. This classic symbol is surrounded by inscriptions reading “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” “SEMPER FIDELIS,” and the denomination “ONE DOLLAR.” The Marine motto, meaning “Always Faithful,” appears prominently and underscores the enduring commitment of the Corps to its country and values. The arrangement is clean and formal, with the emblem sharply defined and the lettering deeply struck, providing a strong contrast against the reflective fields typical of uncirculated commemorative issues.
Each 2005-P Marine Corps Silver Dollar is composed of 90% silver and 10% copper, with a weight of 26.73 grams and a diameter of 38.1 mm—the standard specifications for modern U.S. commemorative silver dollars. These dimensions allow for fine detail and a commanding presence, while the high silver content provides intrinsic value in addition to its historical and collector appeal. The “P” mintmark located on the coin indicates that it was produced at the Philadelphia Mint, which handled both the proof and uncirculated versions of this commemorative release.
The U.S. Mint struck a maximum authorized mintage of 600,000 pieces across both finishes—proof and uncirculated. Ultimately, just over 49,000 uncirculated versions were sold, making the MS-strike significantly scarcer than its proof counterpart, which had a final mintage of more than 391,000 coins. The relatively low mintage of the uncirculated version enhances its desirability, especially in perfect MS70 condition. Certified MS70 coins represent only a small fraction of the total, as minor contact marks and handling from the minting and packaging process typically reduce most specimens to MS68 or MS69.
Certification by NGC ensures that the coin has undergone a rigorous grading process by professional numismatists using industry-standard methods. An MS70 grade confirms that the coin is in perfect condition, with full strike, no visible flaws, and original mint luster completely intact. The NGC encapsulation also provides long-term protection and authentication, making the coin both a secure collectible and an easily tradable asset. For commemorative dollar collectors or military-themed series enthusiasts, the MS70 grade adds a layer of prestige and permanence to the piece.
The visual appeal of the MS70 example is undeniable. The high-quality strike and brilliant uncirculated surfaces allow every element—from the folds of the flag on the obverse to the intricacies of the Marine emblem on the reverse—to stand out in sharp relief. The coin exhibits satiny fields and frosted devices, offering subtle contrast and exceptional eye appeal. With no distractions from bag marks or abrasions, this certified piece embodies the U.S. Mint’s craftsmanship at its highest level.
Beyond its numismatic and aesthetic value, the 2005-P Marine Corps Silver Dollar holds deep symbolic meaning. It represents honor, duty, and service across generations of Marines. Many collectors and veterans acquire this coin not only for investment or completion of a commemorative series but also as a tangible tribute to family members, friends, or personal military service. Its relevance extends to museums, memorials, and patriotic displays, making it a piece that bridges personal sentiment with national heritage.
The Certified Commemorative Dollar 2005-P Marines MS70 NGC is a lasting tribute to American strength and sacrifice. With its powerful designs, low uncirculated mintage, and perfect grade, it is a centerpiece in any modern commemorative coin collection. For those who honor the legacy of the U.S. Marine Corps or seek to preserve a part of national memory in silver, this coin offers both a flawless artifact and a meaningful story cast in enduring metal.