Dates for silver coins vary widely depending on the region and the specific coin type. Here’s a brief overview:
- Pre-1965 circulating coins: Most U.S. dimes, quarters, half dollars, and dollars minted from 1794 to 1964 contained 90% silver and 10% copper.
- 1965-1970 Half Dollars: These half dollars had a reduced silver content of 40%.
- Morgan Silver Dollars: Minted from 1878 to 1904, and again in 1921.
- Peace Silver Dollars: Minted from 1921 to 1928, and again from 1934 to 1935.
- American Silver Eagle: Introduced in 1986 as a popular bullion coin.
- Lydian Silver Coins: Considered among the earliest silver coins, dating back to the 6th century BCE.
- Greek Silver Coins: Pure silver coins began appearing in Greece around 500 BCE.
- Roman Silver Denarius: Introduced around 211 BCE.
- Ottoman Empire: Silver coins were minted throughout its history, with examples from the 18th and 19th centuries mentioned in the search results.
- Medieval Europe: The use of silver coinage increased significantly in northwestern Europe during the early medieval period (660-820 AD). Silver penny (denarius) became the sole coin type in Europe after the Carolingian Reform around 793-794 AD.
- Qing Dynasty (China): While silver ingots were a major form of currency, China started producing its own silver coinages in the 1890s.
- Silver Content Changes: Be aware that the silver content of coins can vary significantly depending on the date of minting, especially during periods of economic instability or changes in monetary policy.
- Modern Collectibles and Bullion: Today, silver coins are primarily produced as collector’s items and investment pieces, rather than for circulation.
What are the dates for junk silver coins?
Despite the unflattering term “junk silver,” which refers to pre-1965 U.S. dimes and quarters that contain 90% silver, are certainly not worthless. Silver coins date back to the nation’s founding and can still be used as currency today. However, 1965 marked a significant turning point for U.S. coinage.
Are all dimes before 1965 silver?
Pre-1965 US dimes and quarters are composed of 90% silver and 10% copper. A typical dime from this period weighs 2.50 grams and contains 0.07234 troy ounces of pure silver. Similarly, a quarter weighs 6.25 grams and contains 0.18084 troy ounces of pure silver.
Are all 1964 quarters 90% silver?
Thanks for asking. The mintage year. A Washington quarter dated 1964 or earlier has a 90% silver metal content. Slightly different coloration. While the mintage year is the most important clue, the particular luster of 90% silver will confirm a coin’s metal content.
What are key dates for silver quarters?
Key dates in the quarter series include the 1796, 1804, 1823/2, 1860-S, 1870-CC to 1873-CC inclusive, 1901-S, 1916 Standing Liberty, 1918/17-S as well as numerous varieties. Among recent key dates, the 1932-D and S stand out as well as the 1943 Doubled Die obverse.