What Year Did They Stop Making Silver Quarters?

Introduction

Silver quarters were once a common form of currency in the United States. They were first minted in 1796 and continued to be produced until the mid-1960s. However, the composition of these coins changed over time, and the production of silver quarters eventually came to an end. In this article, we will explore the history of silver quarters and find out when they stopped being made.

The History of Silver Quarters

Early Years

The first silver quarters were minted in 1796 and were made of 90% silver and 10% copper. These coins were larger than the modern quarter and were known as “draped bust” quarters because of the design on the front of the coin. Over the years, the design of the quarter changed several times, but the composition remained the same.

Changes in Composition

In 1965, the United States Mint began to phase out the production of silver quarters. This was due to a shortage of silver caused by the rising cost of the metal and the increasing demand for it in other industries. The Mint decided to change the composition of the quarter to a combination of copper and nickel, which was cheaper and more readily available.

The new quarters were smaller and lighter than the old silver quarters, but they were still worth 25 cents. The new composition also made the coins more durable and resistant to wear and tear.

The End of Silver Quarters

The production of silver quarters officially ended in 1966. However, some silver quarters were still in circulation for several years after that. In fact, it wasn’t until 1970 that the Mint stopped producing silver dimes and half-dollars as well.

Today, silver quarters are considered to be collector’s items and are valued for their historical significance and rarity. They can be found at coin shops, online auctions, and other places where rare coins are sold.

Conclusion

The production of silver quarters was an important part of American history. These coins were used for many years as a form of currency and were a symbol of the country’s economic strength. However, the rising cost of silver and the need for a more durable coin led to the end of their production in the mid-1960s. Today, silver quarters are a valuable collector’s item and a reminder of a bygone era.