90% Silver Quarters

The History of the 90% Silver Quarter

90% silver quarters have played a vital role in U.S. coinage since the late 18th century. These quarters, worth one-fourth of a dollar, were made from 90% silver and 10% copper up until 1964, after which the rising price of silver led to changes in their composition. Quarters, often overlooked in favor of larger denominations, have seen several beautiful design changes throughout their history and are now highly valued by both collectors and investors.

Metallic Composition of Silver Quarters

From 1796 to 1964, U.S. quarters were composed of 90% silver and 10% copper. As silver prices surged in the 1960s, the public began hoarding silver quarters, which led to a shortage in circulating coins. To address this, Congress passed the  Coinage Act of 1965, eliminating silver from most circulating coins. Quarters minted from 1965 onward were made from a copper-nickel clad composition. This transition ended the production of 90% silver quarters, making them a valuable piece of American numismatic history.

Popular 90% Silver Quarters Throughout History

90% silver quarters are highly sought after for their historical significance, stunning designs, and silver content. They have been a key part of U.S. coinage for nearly two centuries, and two of the most iconic examples are the Standing Liberty Quarter and the Washington Quarter. These coins are treasured by collectors for their unique beauty and craftsmanship, making them a standout in any collection.

STANDING LIBERTY QUARTERS
First minted in 1916, the Standing Liberty Quarter is one of the most artistic coins ever produced by the U.S. Mint. Designed by sculptor Hermon Atkins MacNeil, the obverse features Lady Liberty standing with a shield in one hand and an olive branch in the other, symbolizing both defense and peace. The reverse side depicts a majestic eagle in flight, encircled by 13 stars representing the original colonies. Struck in 90% silver, this quarter remains a collector favorite for its intricate design and historical importance.

WASHINGTON QUARTERS
Introduced in 1932 to commemorate the 200th anniversary of George Washington's birth, the Washington Quarter remains one of the most recognizable coins in U.S. history. Designed by sculptor John Flanagan, the obverse features a profile of Washington, while the reverse showcases a bald eagle with outstretched wings. From 1932 until 1964, these quarters were made with 90% silver, adding to their appeal for both collectors and investors.

Investing in 90% Silver Quarters

90% silver quarters provide a strong investment opportunity due to their historical value and silver content. These quarters, widely recognized as legal tender, offer liquidity and are easy to trade. While they are smaller in size compared to other silver coins, their silver purity makes them a popular choice for investors seeking to diversify their portfolios. Collectors, too, find them appealing for their craftsmanship and the rich history they represent.

If you're interested in adding historic 90% Silver Quarters to your collection or investment portfolio, contact us at Bullion Exchanges. Our knowledgeable team is ready to assist you in finding the perfect coins to suit your needs.