United States quarters produced before 1965 contained 90% silver. These coins are distinguished from later clad coinage by their metallic composition, which significantly influences their intrinsic value. Recognizing coins of this nature involves observing the date and understanding the historical context of U.S. coinage standards. For instance, a quarter dated 1964 is highly likely to contain silver, while one dated 1965 or later will not, except in the case of certain rare commemorative issues.
The significance of these silver-containing quarters stems from their inherent precious metal content. This characteristic makes them appealing to collectors, investors, and individuals interested in numismatic history. Their value is not solely determined by their face value but by the fluctuating price of silver on the precious metals market. Moreover, these coins offer a tangible connection to a period when U.S. currency was backed by precious metals, reflecting a different era in economic and monetary policy.