Alliance to Commemorate: Hawaii 2008 Quarter

Hawaii was the last state to join the alliance of once-independent lands, currently known as the United States of America. And to commemorate this culturally, politically, and economically significant occasion, the US Mint released the Hawaii State Quarter within 50 State Quarters program which aimed to honor each part of one of the largest countries in the world.

2008 Hawaii Quarter is indeed a great example of how culture should pay tribute to its past and respect the diverse backgrounds of the local communities.  In this article, you are welcome to grasp the characteristics of the hi state quarter and get acquainted with a reliable tool for identifying coins and their values for further explorations to delve into. 

50 State Quarters Program

50 State Quarters program was a one-of-a-kind initiative launched in 1999 and devoted to the 10-year-long celebration of each state of America and their cultural impact in succession these were admitted to the alliance. Indeed, it was one of the most popular programs designed and instituted ever. 

The selection of the patterns to be incorporated into each coin was tough and intense since it is always complicated to choose and approve the most indicative picture referring to the specific place or person. Nevertheless, with the help of governors, special committees, and the public, there appeared magnificent works of art in the form of peculiar metal plates. 

Design Elements of the Quarter from Hawaii

The coin of Hawaii completely represents the pristine, exotic nature and rich history of the archipelago. The central part of the reverse’s design is fairly allocated for King Kamehameha I, the acclaimed ruler who brought the Hawaiian Islands together in the early 1800s. The designer aspired to depict King Kamehameha with his arm extended, which was meant to signify his authority and the harmony he handed to the islands. 

The background of the reverse features a map of the Hawaiian Islands, which emphasizes the state's geographic peculiarity as the only US state composed entirely of islands. The Hawaiian state motto, "Ua Mau ke Ea o ka ‘Āina i ka Pono," which means "The life of the land is perpetuated in righteousness", is featured right next to King Kamehameha I, under the representation of the Islands. 

The obverse side, though, is not really unique. From that perspective, a coin looks like any state quarter, i.e., it represents the profile of George Washington along with inscriptions like “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” “QUARTER DOLLAR,” “LIBERTY,” and “IN GOD WE TRUST”. 

Related article: 1796-1797 Draped Bust half dollar worth today. 

Market Value of Hawaii Quarter Dollar

What is obvious is that the market value of such frequently sought-after coins may vary depending on numerous factors, e.g., condition, mint marks, and its type, too. In fact, those numismatic creations that are thought to be less circulated and utilized in everyday life tend to gain greater volumes of attention and, hence, go up in price. All in all, this definitely refers to a particular type of coin, so let us briefly cover some of them. 

Circulated Quarters: The majority of Hawaii quarters in circulation are worth nearly as much as it is stated on their face, i.e., 25 cents. When in fine conditions, these may occasionally fetch a little higher price, yet this is not a common thing to happen. 

Uncirculated Quarters: Uncirculated Hawaii quarters represent a more valuable group of coins, especially if they are in mint condition (rated MS-65 or higher). You will be surprised but these can sell for anywhere from $1 and $5, depending on the quality and the desire of the owner. 

Proof Coins: The value of the Hawaii quarter may increase if it is produced in special proof versions for collectors. Depending on its condition and whether it is made of silver or not, the value of a proof Hawaii quarter can vary from $5 to $20 or even more.

Get Your Numismatic Assistant Right Away 

Anyway, when one engages in numismatics, it is always an overwhelming experience, as they may not be familiar with the majority of aspects, e.g., grading systems, evaluation processes, price formation, and more. To make it smoother and less painful to go through, the industry has a few solutions to offer, and Coin ID Scanner deserves all the praise we are to bombard it with.

Coin ID Scanner is an application of a new era that delivers the most essential tools for numismatists’ daily use. How does it work? Briefly speaking, Coin ID Scanner evaluates a coin's physical attributes with the use of machine learning algorithms and artificial intelligence. This covers its design, inscriptions, metal composition, minting year, errors, origin, market value, and even particular variations or marks. For example, you can try to scan your 1794 silver dollar with this app and find out its real current value. 

After scanning via the built-in camera, the app compares these characteristics to an extensive database of photographs and information about coins worldwide and finally gives the user a coin identification proper. Besides, one is free to keep track of their coins to understand when it is time to inspect the collection and make necessary changes in the end.

Coins like Hawaii State Quarter usually draw the attention of the international community,  for they can productively display the local intricacies of culture and overall interest in coins of this type. So, equip yourself with the necessary tools and create a fine collection full of your favorites only. 

Sources: 

1. https://www.usmint.gov/coins/coin-medal-programs/50-state-quarters/hawaii 

2. https://www.usmint.gov/learn/coin-and-medal-programs/50-state-quarters