A couple of thoughts: Other states are already ready to go with thier own 2009 coins. Our 2008 coin will, indeed, probably seem "old" or "last year's" coin to those outside of Maine. That doesn't matter much to me, however. But it just seems natural in my mind that if these come out in 2009 they should probably say 2009 on them, pure and simple. I echo the others in that we had a 2005, 2007, and now a 2009.
As far as new ideas for 2009, that's terrific that people are getting involved, submitting new ideas, etc. But I don't want to rush things needlessly....I hope we pay the same amount scrutiny as we have in the past (just not take so long to do it). Also, is Andy ready to do all this work all over again so soon? My vote is for 2009, unless, of course, it means more cost, more delays, new minting, etc.