what year did they stop making silver quarters

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15-04-2025

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The question of when the U.S. stopped making silver quarters is a common one among coin collectors and history buffs. The answer isn't a single year, but rather a gradual transition. Understanding this transition requires looking at the history of U.S. coinage.

The Silver Quarter's History: From 90% Silver to 40% Nickel

Before 1965, U.S. quarters contained 90% silver and 10% copper. This high silver content made them valuable, not just for their face value, but also for their precious metal content. This is why many people today still actively search for pre-1965 quarters.

However, due to rising silver prices and the increasing cost of minting these coins, the composition changed significantly.

The 1965 Coinage Act: A Shift Away from Silver

The Coinage Act of 1965 drastically altered the composition of U.S. coinage. This act, signed into law by President Lyndon B. Johnson, marked a pivotal moment for the silver quarter.

Starting in 1965, the U.S. Mint began producing quarters with a new composition: 91.67% copper, and 8.33% nickel. This was a much cheaper option and allowed the government to continue producing quarters without the massive expense of using silver.

Key Changes Brought About by the 1965 Act:

• Quarters produced *after* 1964 were 90% silver. Those minted in 1965 and later years were primarily copper and nickel.
• The change affected dimes and half-dollars as well, transitioning them away from silver.
• This change saved the government considerable expense in the long run.

1964: The Last Year for 90% Silver Quarters

Therefore, the definitive answer to "What year did they stop making silver quarters?" is 1964. While some small numbers of 90% silver quarters might have been struck early in 1965 as leftover blanks were used, the vast majority of quarters minted from 1965 onward are the copper-nickel clad variety.

Collecting Silver Quarters: A Popular Hobby

The change in composition makes pre-1965 quarters highly sought after by coin collectors. Their silver content makes them worth significantly more than their face value, depending on condition and other factors. Many people enjoy the search for these "junk silver" coins, hunting through change and older coin collections.

Key Considerations for Coin Collectors

• Condition Matters: The condition of a coin greatly affects its value. Circulated coins will be worth less than those in mint state condition.
• Grading Services: Professional coin grading services (like PCGS or NGC) can verify a coin's authenticity and condition, impacting its value.
• Researching Values: Use reputable online resources and coin guides to assess the value of your silver quarters.

Conclusion: The Legacy of the Silver Quarter

The year 1964 marks the end of an era for the silver quarter. The 1965 Coinage Act fundamentally changed the composition of U.S. currency, impacting not only the economic landscape but also the collecting hobby. While you won't find 90% silver quarters in your change anymore, the search for them continues to fascinate collectors and enthusiasts. Understanding this shift provides a glimpse into the historical context of U.S. numismatics.