what is the last year silver quarters were made

2 min read 24-12-2024

what is the last year silver quarters were made

The question of when the last silver quarters were made is a common one among coin collectors. Understanding the history of silver coinage in the United States is key to answering this. This article will delve into the specifics, exploring the different periods of silver content in quarters and offering a comprehensive answer to your question.

The Transition Away from Silver

Before we pinpoint the final year, it's important to understand the context. The composition of US quarters has changed significantly throughout history. For much of the 20th century, quarters contained a significant amount of silver. However, due to fluctuating silver prices and government policy, this changed.

The Silver Certificate Act of 1918

This act authorized the Treasury to issue silver certificates, which impacted the way the government managed its silver reserves. It was a significant step in the evolution of how silver was used in US coinage.

World War II and the Silver Crisis

The World War II era saw a massive increase in demand for silver, leading to a shortage and price increases. This played a major role in the eventual reduction of silver content in coins.

The Coinage Act of 1965

This act was a landmark decision. It marked the end of 90% silver quarters. The act significantly altered the metallic composition of circulating coins, including quarters, dimes, and half-dollars. These coins began to be made with a copper-nickel clad composition, significantly cheaper than using silver.

The Final Year of 90% Silver Quarters

Therefore, the last year that 90% silver quarters were made in the United States was 1964. After 1964, the United States Mint ceased production of quarters containing 90% silver for general circulation. Coins from this year are highly sought-after by collectors due to their silver content and historical significance.

Silver Quarters After 1964: Proof and Commemorative Coins

While 1964 marks the end of 90% silver quarters in regular circulation, it’s important to note that silver has been used in later quarters. This includes:

Proof Sets: The US Mint continues to produce proof sets (coins struck with special dies for a superior surface) that occasionally include silver quarters, though the silver content and percentage have varied over the years. These are not intended for general circulation, rather for collectors.
Commemorative Coins: Certain commemorative quarters, released to celebrate specific events or milestones, have included silver in their composition. These are special issues, and not part of the regular circulating coinage.

Identifying 90% Silver Quarters

Collectors often look for ways to identify 90% silver quarters. Here’s what to look for:

Date: A date of 1964 or earlier is a strong indicator, though it's vital to verify using other methods.
Weight and Feel: 90% silver quarters have a noticeably heavier feel than modern quarters. This is a good initial clue, but not conclusive.
Acid Test: A specialized acid test can definitively determine the silver content. This is typically a method used by experienced numismatists.

Collecting 90% Silver Quarters

The 1964 quarter, being the last year of high-silver content, is a key coin for many collectors. Its value can vary based on condition, with mint-state coins commanding significantly higher prices.

Always handle these coins with care to avoid damaging their surfaces.

Conclusion

While the question of the last year silver quarters were made has a definitive answer (1964 for 90% silver quarters in general circulation), the story extends beyond that single year. Understanding the historical context and the ongoing production of silver coins for collectors provides a more complete picture for both collectors and enthusiasts of US numismatics. Remember to always verify authenticity and consult with experienced numismatists if you're seriously considering collecting silver quarters.