The standard 2009 American Samoa US territory 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.
American Samoa is a group of five islands and two atolls located in the South Pacific Ocean. This territory is about 2,300 miles southwest of Hawaii. American Samoa became an official US territory in 1929.
Design
On the reverse side of the coin there are several different images that include a shoreline with a coconut tree and ceremonial items. The ceremonial items include the ava bowl, whisk, and staff. The ava bowl is used for a ceremonial drink during special occasions. The whisk and staff symbolize the rank of orator who gives speeches during gatherings.
There is also an inscription in the local language that reads "SAMOA MUAMUA LE ATUA". This translates to "Samoa, God is First".
Coin Information
The US minted different series of the American Samoa quarter. There is the 2009 P quarter, 2009 D quarter, 2009 S proof quarter and 2009 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 |
|---|---|---|
| 2009 P | Philadelphia | 42,600,000 |
| 2009 D | Denver | 39,600,000 |
| 2009 S Proof | San Francisco | 2,113,478 |
| 2009 S Silver Proof | San Francisco | 996,548 |
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 2009 American Samoa 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 2009 P American Samoa quarter and 2009 D American Samoa quarter are each worth around $1 in uncirculated condition with an MS 63 grade. Uncirculated coins with a grade of MS 65 can sell for around $2.
The 2009 S proof American Samoa quarter is worth around $4.50 in PR 66DC condition. The value is around $15 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 $5.66. This melt value is calculated from the current silver spot price of $31.30 per ounce.
The 2009 S silver proof American Samoa quarter is worth around $12 in PR 66DC condition. The value is around $20 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:
2009 District of Columbia Quarter
2009 Guam Quarter
2009 Northern Mariana Islands Quarter
2009 Puerto Rico Quarter
2009 US Virgin Islands Quarter