Known for their unique designs and historical significance, the 2008 quarters hold a special place in collectors’ hearts due to various valuable errors and rare issues.
Let’s dive into the details of these quarters and how to identify valuable pieces.
Historical Context
The 2008 quarters are part of the 50 State Quarters Program to celebrate each of the 50 states.
In 2008 the last five states were released: Oklahoma, New Mexico, Arizona, Alaska, and Hawaii.
2008 Quarters Values Chart
The value chart outlines estimated ranges based on condition:
| Condition | Estimated Value Range |
|---|---|
| Good | $0.25 – $0.50 |
| Fine | $0.50 – $1.00 |
| Extra Fine (XF45) | $1.00 – $2.00 |
| About Uncirculated (AU) | $2.00 – $3.00 |
| Brilliant Uncirculated (BU) | $3.00 – $4.00 |
| MS66 | $5.00 – $20.00 |
2008 Quarter Designs and Composition
The obverse of these quarters features the familiar portrait by John Flanagan of George Washington. The reverse showcases designs representing the final five states in the 50 State Quarters Program:
- Oklahoma: Scissor-tailed Flycatcher and Indian Blanket flowers.
- New Mexico: Zia sun symbol and state outline.
- Arizona: Grand Canyon and Saguaro Cactus.
- Alaska: Grizzly bear with salmon.
- Hawaii: King Kamehameha I and the state motto.
The 2008 quarters comprise a clad mixture of 91.67% copper and 8.33% nickel, weighing 5.67 grams and a diameter of 24.26 mm. The coins have 119 reeds along the edge.
Rare Issues and Error Coins
Some 2008 quarters are precious due to errors or rare issues. Notable errors include:
- Off-center strikes occur when the coin is not seated correctly during the striking process, leading to misaligned designs.
- Double die obverses: Caused by a misalignment during the minting process, resulting in a doubled image.
- Missing clad layer: These errors appear when a layer of the metal is absent, giving the coin a unique appearance.
Depending on their rarity and condition, error coins can be worth from $50 to several hundred dollars.
Special Releases and Mint Sets
The U.S. Mint released proof and special mint sets in 2008 that are superior in both strike and finish.
- Proof Coins: Struck with specially polished dies, producing a mirror-like finish.
- Silver Proof Sets: Featuring quarters struck in 90% silver.
How to Identify a Valuable 2008 Quarters
Examine the coin under magnification for errors like double dies or off-center strikes. Consider the mint mark and mintage numbers for rarity.
Known 2008 Quarter Errors:
- 2008 Alaska Extra Claw Error: Some Alaska quarters have an extra claw due to die chips.
- 2008 Arizona Cactus Error: Certain Arizona quarters show extra metal that appears to cover the designer’s initials.
Mint Marks, and Mintage Amounts
Hawaii (P, D): Philadelphia: 254,000,000; Denver: 263,600,000
Oklahoma (P, D): Philadelphia: 222,000,000; Denver: 194,600,000
New Mexico (P, D): Philadelphia: 244,200,000; Denver: 244,600,000
Arizona (P, D): Philadelphia: 244,600,000; Denver: 265,000,000
Alaska (P, D): Philadelphia: 251,800,000; Denver: 254,000,000