The value of US silver coins is determined by a combination of factors, including:
- Silver Melt Value: This is the intrinsic value of the coin based on its silver content and the current spot price of silver.
- Numismatic Value (Collector Value): This value is based on the coin’s rarity, condition (grade), demand among collectors, and historical significance. Key dates and varieties can significantly increase a coin’s numismatic value.
Here’s a breakdown of common US silver coin values based primarily on their melt value, with the understanding that numismatic value can vary widely:
| Coin Type | Face Value | Silver Purity | Approximate Current Value (based on silver spot price of $38.36/oz) | |———————————————|————|—————|——————————————————————-| | War Nickels (1942-1945) | $0.05 | 90% | $2.16 | | Barber Dimes (1892-1916) | $0.10 | 90% | $2.77 | | Mercury Dimes (1916-1945) | $0.10 | 90% | $2.77 | | Roosevelt Dimes (1946-1964) | $0.10 | 90% | $2.77 | | Barber Quarters (1892-1916) | $0.25 | 90% | $6.94 | | Standing Liberty Quarters (1916-1930) | $0.25 | 90% | $6.94 | | Washington Quarters (1932-1964) | $0.25 | 90% | $6.94 | | Barber Half Dollars (1892-1915) | $0.50 | 90% | $13.87 | | Walking Liberty Half Dollars (1916-1947) | $0.50 | 90% | $13.87 | | Franklin Half Dollars (1948-1963) | $0.50 | 90% | $13.87 | | Kennedy Half Dollars (1964) | $0.50 | 90% | $13.87 | | Kennedy Half Dollars (1965-1970) | $0.50 | 40% | $13.87 | | Morgan Dollars (1878-1921) | $1.00 | 90% | $29.67 | | Peace Dollars (1921-1935) | $1.00 | 90% | $29.67 | | Eisenhower Dollars (1971-1976) | $1.00 | 40% | $12.13 | | Silver Eagles (1986-Date) | $1.00 | 99.9% | $38.32 |
Note: The values presented in the table above are approximate and based on the provided silver spot price. The actual value of any given coin may vary due to factors like its specific year, mint mark, and individual condition.
- Rarity and Mintage: Coins with lower production numbers are generally more valuable to collectors.
- Condition/Grade: The state of preservation dramatically impacts value. Coins are graded on a scale from Poor to Perfect (P-1 to MS-70). Uncirculated (Mint State) coins command higher prices. Professional grading by services like PCGS or NGC can authenticate and establish a coin’s grade.
- Key Dates: Certain dates or varieties within a series are considered “key dates” due to their scarcity and are highly sought after by collectors.
- Historical Significance: Coins with historical importance or unique features can also carry a premium.
For an accurate valuation of a specific US silver coin, it’s best to consult with a reputable coin dealer or consider getting the coin professionally graded. Online resources and price guides can offer general information but may not account for the nuances of individual coins.
How do I find the value of my silver coins?
Check Melt Value: The melt value of a silver coin refers to the value of the silver content itself. To calculate this, weigh your coin and multiply its weight by the current market price for silver. This gives you a baseline value, but remember that collectible coins are often worth more than their melt value.
Should you clean old silver coins before selling?
No, you should never clean old coins.
Coin collectors prefer them to be in original condition and there is a nearly 100% chance that any cleaning attempt will lessen the value of the coin, especially if it’s in nicer condition…