New Mexico State Quarter (2008): Yucca, Zia Symbol, and 'Land of Enchantment'

The 2008 New Mexico quarter, 47th in the 50 State Quarters Program, centers on the yucca (Yucca gloriosa), the state flower, symbolizing resilience. Within its petals lies the Zia sun symbol — a sacred Native American emblem of the sun's life-giving power. A Native pottery shard with geometric patterns honors indigenous artistic heritage. Inscriptions read "NEW MEXICO" (top), "2008" (bottom), and the edge bears "LAND OF ENCHANTMENT," the state nickname. Designed by Richard Masters, sculpted by Joseph Menna, the quarter encapsulates New Mexico's natural beauty, cultural depth, and enduring spirit.