2005-S West Virginia Proof 50 States Quarters

The U.S. Mint released five coins each year between 1999-2008, following a predetermined order of release, beginning with Delaware in 1999 and ending with Hawaii in 2008. The Mint also issued a number of special six-coin sets, including the District of Columbia, The Territories, and the National Parks.

The 50 States Quarters series was a major success and brought together millions of Americans in their appreciation of the beauty and diversity of our nation’s many states. Moreover, the series set the stage for other popular U.S. Mint commemorative themes, such as the National Park Quarters and America the Beautiful Quarters.

The former Chief Engraver of the U.S. Mint, William Cousins, designed all of the obverse coins in the 50 States Quarters Series. The coins ranged in denomination from 25 cents to 50 cents and were made of either copper and nickel or copper-nickel clad. The density of each coin is 5.67 grams and their diameter is 24.3 millimeters.

Each quarter is certified and graded by two of the most respected and longstanding coin grading services – the Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC) and the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS). These third-party services are essential for protecting a coin’s authenticity and value. The NGC and PCGS use sight, sound, and weight tests to determine a coin’s condition and then assign a grade from 1 to 70, with 70 being the highest quality.

The 50 States Quarters series was a milestone in U.S. Mint history, celebrating the vibrant past, present, and future of our country’s fifty states. The series’ coins, which can still be collected today, stand as a powerful reminder of the nation’s inspiring journey to achieve and maintain equality, success, and unity among all Americans.