The best way to determine if your coin is silver is to view the edge of the coin. If the coin has a solid silver edge, this will ensure your coin is silver. If you instead see a copper stripe on the edge, then the coin is clad, and is likely comprised of copper and nickel and is likely just worth face value.
A more subtle silver stripe with faint traces of copper could mean that the coin is 40% silver. The only American silver coins minted for general circulation that contain 40% silver are the Kennedy half dollars minted from 1965 – 1970.
Eisenhower Silver Dollars produced by the San Francisco Mint from 1971 – 1976 also are also comprised of 40% silver. These coins were minted in proof and mint sets and were never intended to be circulated.
All dimes, quarters and half dollars struck by the U.S. Mint prior to 1965, are made of 90% silver. 1964 was the last year they made them with the silver copper alloy.
If you’d like us to examine any coins you have to determine their silver content and/or their value, please call to set up an appointment with one of our specialists.