Any way to get a Windows 8.1 key ? Needed for restore

Is there any way to obtain an 8.1 key? I started having issues with crashing on my system. I went to do a system restore, and for some reason my restore points were gone. They were there last week. I then wanted to a system refresh, but I did not have any physical media. I chatted with a MS rep and they said my product key was for Win 8. They said they would have to send me a physical media. Only problem is that it is the weekend, and I need it now.
I would even be willing to pay for it. I can burn the Windows 8 ISO. Can I just do a clean install of 8 and then upgrade to 8.1? MS policy makes no sense. If I had been warned this would be an issue I would have downloaded the 8.1 image when promoted during initial install.

you can extract you win 8 key with this program. You should clean install direct to win 8.1 this can be accomplished. You will need to download the correct ISO either OEM Core or Core or Pro. See the sticky's at the top of this section forum

I can burn the Windows 8 ISO

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When you buy Windows 8 online, you download the ISO & the Product key will come in the email from the Store.

http://www.eightforums.com/installa...retail-windows-8-1-windows-8-product-key.html