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This page is dedicated to the history and design of the 2008 New Mexico State Quarter.
Design of the 2008 New Mexico State Quarter
The great influence of Native American cultures can be found throughout New Mexico. The Zia Pueblo believe the sun symbol represents the giver of all good, who gave gifts in groups of four. From the circle representing life and love without beginning or end, the four groups of four rays that emanate represent the four directions, the four seasons, the four phases of a day (sunrise, noon, evening, and night), and the four divisions of life (childhood, youth, middle years, and old age).
The New Mexico Coin Commission, appointed by Governor Bill Richardson, solicited and reviewed approximately 1,000 concept submissions from state citizens. The Commission then constructed four narrative concepts that represented the most popular elements submitted by the public and forwarded them to the United States Mint for consideration. The final artistic renderings developed by United States Mint Sculptor-Engravers and artists participating in the United States Mint’s Artistic Infusion Program were then proposed to New Mexico for a final selection process. On April 24, 2007, Governor Richardson announced his recommendation of the Zia Symbol over Topographical State Outline design.
1) Regular business strike meant for circulation bearing the P mark of the US Mint at at Philadelphia
2) Regular business strike meant for circulation bearing the D mark of the US Mint at Denver
2) A proof version bearing the S mint mark of the US Mint at San Francisco
3) A silver proof version, made of silver, bearing the mark of the US Mint at San Francisco.
4) Special release collectible satin finish version bearing the P mark of the US Mint at Philadelphia
5) Special release collectible satin finish version bearing the D mark of the US Mint at Denver
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Design of the 2008 New Mexico State Quarter
The great influence of Native American cultures can be found throughout New Mexico. The Zia Pueblo believe the sun symbol represents the giver of all good, who gave gifts in groups of four. From the circle representing life and love without beginning or end, the four groups of four rays that emanate represent the four directions, the four seasons, the four phases of a day (sunrise, noon, evening, and night), and the four divisions of life (childhood, youth, middle years, and old age).
The New Mexico Coin Commission, appointed by Governor Bill Richardson, solicited and reviewed approximately 1,000 concept submissions from state citizens. The Commission then constructed four narrative concepts that represented the most popular elements submitted by the public and forwarded them to the United States Mint for consideration. The final artistic renderings developed by United States Mint Sculptor-Engravers and artists participating in the United States Mint’s Artistic Infusion Program were then proposed to New Mexico for a final selection process. On April 24, 2007, Governor Richardson announced his recommendation of the Zia Symbol over Topographical State Outline design.
Versions of the 2008 New Mexico State Quarter
The New Mexico State Quarter is released in 5 different forms.
1) Regular business strike meant for circulation bearing the P mark of the US Mint at at Philadelphia
2) Regular business strike meant for circulation bearing the D mark of the US Mint at Denver
2) A proof version bearing the S mint mark of the US Mint at San Francisco
3) A silver proof version, made of silver, bearing the mark of the US Mint at San Francisco.
4) Special release collectible satin finish version bearing the P mark of the US Mint at Philadelphia
5) Special release collectible satin finish version bearing the D mark of the US Mint at Denver
Quarter Composition
Like all state quarters, the circulating New Mexico state quarter is made from 8.33% nickel with the remaining balance from copper. It weights 5.67 grams, is .955 inches in diameter and is 1.75 mm thick. The edge is reeded with 119 grooves.Was this Guide Helpful? If so, please vote below!
Guide created: 12/04/07 (updated 09/03/08)
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