How We Evaluate Pre-1965 Silver Coins
Discover how our passionate numismatic team assesses the true intrinsic and collector value of your 90% Constitutional Silver.
Expert Evaluation Criteria
How our numismatic experts assess the true market value of your items.
Silver Content
Verifying the 90% silver content in your pre-1964 dimes, quarters, and half dollars.
Key Dates & Mints
Scanning Morgan and Peace Dollars for rare mintmarks that bring exceptional collector premiums.
Condition & Luster
Evaluating surface wear and original mint luster to separate standard bullion from numismatic treasures.
The Value of Your Constitutional Silver
When you sit across the counter from our team with a collection of old family coins, you are often presenting a tangible piece of American history. We understand that deciphering the true market value of these silver treasures can feel overwhelming. That is precisely why we are here to walk you through our detailed evaluation process, treating your collection with the respect and expertise it deserves.
Our approach to evaluating what the industry calls Constitutional Silver is deeply rooted in decades of professional numismatic experience. We do not simply place a handful of mixed coins on a scale and quote a flat bulk rate. Instead, we take the time to inspect every single piece, ensuring nothing of higher value slips through the cracks.
Identifying 90% Silver vs. Modern Coinage
The foundation of our evaluation begins by sorting and verifying the composition of your collection. The term 90% Silver specifically refers to the standard metallurgical makeup of United States dimes, quarters, and half dollars minted in 1964 and earlier. When we begin our appraisal, our very first step is separating this valuable Constitutional Silver from modern, copper-nickel clad pocket change.
Many folks are unaware of transitional compositions and often leave value on the table. For instance, while quarters and dimes lost their silver content after 1964, we carefully check your Kennedy halves. Between 1965 and 1970, these half dollars were struck in a 40% silver composition. We make sure these 40% Kennedy halves are accurately identified, isolated, and valued based on their exact intrinsic value.
Hunting for Premiums in Classic Dollars
Beyond the baseline intrinsic value of the metal, we look for pieces that hold significant numismatic—or collector—value. This is especially true when evaluating heavy, classic coinage like Morgan Dollars and Peace Dollars. These iconic silver dollars are always in incredibly high demand among collectors worldwide.
During our inspection, we meticulously check the reverse side of every classic dollar for rare mintmarks—such as the legendary “CC” for the Carson City Mint. We also analyze the coin’s state of preservation. Even the slightest hint of original, cartwheel mint luster or an exceptionally sharp strike can dramatically elevate a common-date silver dollar far beyond its standard silver content.
Protecting Your Investment
Because the intrinsic value of Constitutional Silver fluctuates with the global live spot prices, we pride ourselves on transparency. We explain exactly how current market conditions affect the offer we make. Furthermore, we always advise our clients: please never attempt to clean or polish your pre-1964 silver coins. A natural, untouched surface is exactly what we—and the broader collector market—want to see.
When you trust us with your collection, you gain the peace of mind that comes from working with seasoned experts. We look forward to evaluating your silver and helping you discover the true potential sitting inside those old coin jars.
QUICK FACTS
- Dimes, quarters, and halves pre-1964 are 90% silver.
- 1965-1970 halves contain 40% silver.
- Morgan and Peace Dollars often carry premiums.
- Some mint marks dramatically increase a coin’s premium.
- Never clean your coins!
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my coins are 90% silver?
The simplest way to identify 90% silver coins is by looking at the date and denomination. United States dimes, quarters, and half dollars dated 1964 and earlier are composed of 90% silver. You can also often identify them by checking the edge of the coin; modern clad coins display a distinct copper stripe, whereas 90% silver coins will show a solid silver-colored edge.
Are 1965 to 1970 half dollars made of silver?
Yes, while dimes and quarters stopped containing silver after 1964, the U.S. Mint continued to produce Kennedy half dollars with a 40% silver composition from 1965 through 1970. We carefully sort these out during our evaluation process to ensure you are compensated for their intrinsic value.
Do Morgan and Peace Dollars carry a premium over their intrinsic value?
Absolutely. Because of their immense popularity among collectors, almost all Morgan Dollars and Peace Dollars carry a numismatic premium above their underlying intrinsic silver value. Rare dates, specific mintmarks (like Carson City), and coins in pristine condition can command exceptionally high premiums.
Should I clean my Constitutional Silver before evaluation?
Please never clean your coins. Cleaning strips away the original mint luster, creates micro-scratches on the surface, and can severely diminish a coin’s numismatic value. Our experts prefer to evaluate your collection exactly as it is, tarnish and all.
Ready for an Evaluation?
Make the short, secure drive to our Scottsdale office.
Give us a call to schedule your private consultation today.