The standard 2008 Alaska state quarters are made of a clad composition that contains copper and nickel. Clad proof quarters and silver proof quarters were also minted and they sell for more money. Keep reading to learn more about these coins.
Design
On the reverse side of the coin there is a design that shows a grizzly bear catching a salmon (the state fish). Also shown is the North Star and the state's motto "The Great Land". This design showcases Alaska's famous natural wildlife.
The year 1959 is inscribed on the coin because this was the year that Alaska officially joined the union.
Coin Information
The US minted different series of the Alaska quarter. There is the 2008 P quarter, 2008 D quarter, 2008 S proof quarter and 2008 S silver proof quarter.
Proof coins are essentially coins that have more detail. They are minted on special planchets and it takes longer to produce them. They are specifically made for collectors so you won't find any in your spare change.
Note: The mint mark can be found on the obverse side of each coin under the "IN GOD WE TRUST" motto.
| Series | Location | Quantity Minted |
|---|---|---|
| 2008 P | Philadelphia | 251,800,000 |
| 2008 D | Denver | |
| 2008 S Proof | San Francisco | 2,078,112 |
| 2008 S Silver Proof | San Francisco | 1,192,908 |
Value
The value will depend on the series and the coin's condition. Below we will examine the value for each series.
Clad Quarters
The standard 2008 Alaska clad quarters in circulated condition are only worth their face value of $0.25. These coins only sell for a premium in uncirculated condition.
Both the 2008 P Alaska quarter and 2008 D Alaska quarter are each worth around $0.75 in uncirculated condition with an MS 63 grade. Uncirculated coins with a grade of MS 65 can sell for around $2.
The 2008 S proof Alaska quarter is worth around $5 in PR 66DC condition. The value is around $18 in PR 69DC condition.
Silver Proof Quarter
This coin is worth at least its weight in silver. The silver melt value for this coin is $5.34. This melt value is calculated from the current silver spot price of $29.52 per ounce.
The 2008 S silver proof Alaska quarter is worth around $11 in PR 66DC condition. The value is around $22 in PR 69DC condition.
Grading System
MS 63 choice uncirculated- In the major focal areas there are some blemishes or contact marks. The coin's luster might not be as prominent.
MS 65 gem uncirculated- There is strong luster and eye appeal. A few light contact marks may be present but they are barely noticeable.
PR 66DC proof- There are minimal marks and hairlines.
PR 69DC proof- Only the slightest imperfections are present.
Sources:
The Red Book
See also:
2008 Arizona Quarter
2008 Hawaii Quarter
2008 New Mexico Quarter
2008 Oklahoma Quarter