2008-D New Mexico State Quarter
Coin/Bullion · United States Mint; specifically the Denver Mint as indicated by the 'D' mint mark (visible on the obverse, though only the reverse is shown). Established in 1792, the US Mint is the sole manufacturer of legal tender coinage for the United States.
Pattern: 50 State Quarters Program, New Mexico Reverse
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
United States Mint; specifically the Denver Mint as indicated by the 'D' mint mark (visible on the obverse, though only the reverse is shown). Established in 1792, the US Mint is the sole manufacturer of legal tender coinage for the United States.
Material
Cupro-nickel clad copper. Composition is 8.33% nickel with the balance being copper. Note: This is not a silver coin; it lacks the 'S' mint mark and the distinct white-silver edge of the 90% silver proof versions issued for collectors.
Dimensions
Diameter: 24.26 mm (0.955 in); Thickness: 1.75 mm; Weight: 5.67 grams. Standard US Quarter specifications.
Description
This coin represents the 47th state honored in the 50 State Quarters Program. The design prominently features the Zia sun symbol, which originates from the Zia Pueblo and is also the central centerpiece of New Mexico's state flag. The symbol represents the four points of the compass, the four seasons of the year, the four periods of each day, and the four seasons of life. It is set against a textured outline of the state map.
Key Features
Distinctive Zia sun symbol, topographical state map, and the 2008 mintage date. The 'D' mint mark identifies it as a Denver strike intended for general circulation.
Material & Composition
Cupro-nickel clad copper. Composition is 8.33% nickel with the balance being copper. Note: This is not a silver coin; it lacks the 'S' mint mark and the distinct white-silver edge of the 90% silver proof versions issued for collectors.
Finish & Decoration
Business strike finish with relief engraving. The reverse features a Zia sun symbol superimposed over a topographical outline of the state of New Mexico, accented by the state nickname 'Land of Enchantment'.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Engraved 'NEW MEXICO', '1912' (statehood year), '2008' (mintage year), 'E PLURIBUS UNUM', and 'LAND OF ENCHANTMENT'. The designer's initials 'DE' (Don Everhart) are present in the lower right field.
Construction Details
Mass-produced through industrial die-striking. Planchets (metal blanks) are punched from credit-card thickness strips of clad metal and struck between upper and lower dies under high pressure.
Functional Features
Reeded edge for anti-counterfeiting and tactile recognition; legal tender value of 25 cents.
Handle & Grip Details
Not applicable for coinage.
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-struck with precision dies. The detail in the Zia symbol is sharp, showing the industrial capabilities of the US Mint's modern production lines despite being a mass-produced object.
Authentication Indicators
Authentic US Mint strike. Typography, relief depth, and edge reeding are consistent with official production standards. The color and wear pattern are typical for cupro-nickel cladding.
Origin & Manufacturing
United States, Denver Mint, Colorado. Produced using high-speed schuler presses.
Era & Period
Modern Era; early 21st Century. Part of the 50 State Quarters Program (1999-2008).
Age Estimate
Dated 2008. Produced in the final year of the 10-year State Quarter series.
Cultural Significance
The State Quarters program is credited with revitalizing coin collecting in the United States, engaging millions of people in the study of state history and iconography through everyday pocket change.
Condition Notes
Circulated/About Uncirculated. Visible surface abrasions, minor bag marks, and light oxidation/grime consistent with handling in commerce. No significant environmental damage or cleaning noted.
Value Estimate
$0.25 (Face Value) in circulated condition. High-grade uncirculated examples (MS65 or higher) can command $1.00 - $5.00 among series collectors.
Care & Maintenance
As a common circulation coin, no special care is required. To preserve numismatic value, avoid harsh chemical cleaners or abrasive polishing, which creates 'hairlines' that lower the grade. Store in a PVC-free flip if desired.
Similar Pieces
2008-P New Mexico Quarter (Philadelphia Mint), 2008-S Proof New Mexico Quarter (San Francisco, Mirror finish), and the 2008-S Silver Proof (90% Silver, distinguishable by a solid silver edge).
Interesting Facts
The New Mexico State Quarter was the second-to-last coin released in the 10-year series. The Zia Pueblo originally expressed concerns regarding the use of their sacred symbol on the coin without permission, highlighted by the state's historical use of the symbol since 1925.