Can I Sell Coins That Are Part Silver
Feb 15, 2023
Understanding Silver Content in U.S. Coins
Many older U.S. coins contain some percentage of silver, making them more valuable than their face value. Half dollars, quarters, and dimes minted before certain cutoff years often contain 90% or 40% silver. Identifying these details is an important first step before selling.
Which Half Dollars, Quarters, and Dimes Contain Silver?
Here are the most common U.S. coins people ask about:
Coin | Years with 90% Silver | Years with 40% Silver | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
Dimes | Pre-1965 (Roosevelt & Mercury) | None | "Wartime" nickels (1942–1945) contain 35% silver but look different |
Quarters | Pre-1965 (Washington) | None | 1965+ quarters are clad and contain no silver |
Half Dollars | Pre-1965 (Franklin & Kennedy) | 1965–1970 Kennedy halves | Silver value depends on percentage and wear condition |
For authoritative reference, see the U.S. Mint coin specifications.
How to Tell if Your Coin Has Silver Content
Date stamping: Any dime, quarter, or half dollar dated before 1965 (generally) will have silver.
Edge test: Silver coins usually have a consistent silver-colored edge. Modern clad coins show a copper line.
Magnet test: Silver is not magnetic. If it sticks to a magnet, it is not silver.
Weight: Silver dimes (2.5g) and quarters (6.25g) weigh slightly more than clad coins. Use a calibrated gram scale.
Steps to Value and Sell Silver Coins
Gather and sort: Separate coins by denomination, year, and condition.
Check silver content: Use the coin chart above to confirm if coins contain 90% or 40% silver.
Weigh and record: Weigh groups of coins in grams, not just counting face value. Write down totals.
Estimate melt value: Multiply silver weight by current silver spot price. (Example: 12 pre-1965 quarters contain roughly 2.15 oz silver.)
Understand melt vs. resale: Most coin buyers pay based on melt value, but collectible (uncirculated, rare date) coins may sell higher.
Packing and Shipping Silver Coins
If using a mail-in service, carefully package your coins:
Place coins in small zip bags, labeled by type and date range.
Padded envelope or small box inside a shipping box.
Ship insured and trackable. USPS Registered Mail offers the strongest protection for precious metals.
Photograph your package and contents before shipping.
What Testing Methods to Expect
When you send coins to a professional buyer, they may:
Check dates and weights.
Use electronic silver testers to confirm content.
Perform an acid test if authenticity is in question (usually unnecessary with U.S. coins).
Reputable buyers provide clear breakdowns of silver content and weight, so you understand calculations.
Payment Options for Selling Silver Coins
Common payout choices include:
PayPal: Fast, but may charge fees.
Venmo, Zelle, Cash App: Nearly instant, but may have transfer limits.
ACH Bank Transfer: Secure direct deposit, usually 1–2 business days.
Check: Traditional but slower, depends on mail delivery.
Safety and Documentation
Keep basic records:
Take clear photos of each coin group before mailing.
Log total weights and dates sent.
Track packages through the delivery carrier.
Use a simple record tool like GavelBase to keep notes on your items.
Quick Checklist
Check coin dates – pre-1965 dimes, quarters, and half dollars are usually 90% silver.
Group and weigh in grams for accuracy.
Record your totals.
Decide on melt value vs. collectible resale potential.
Safely pack, insure, and track your shipment.
Select the payment option that suits you best.
FAQ
Do all old coins have silver? No—nickels and pennies rarely have significant silver. Focus on dimes, quarters, and half dollars minted before 1965, plus Kennedy half dollars 1965–1970.
Is melt value the same as resale value? Not always. Common circulated coins are generally paid at melt value. Rare date or high-grade coins can carry collector premiums.
Can I sell dirty or tarnished coins? Yes. Tarnish does not affect silver content or melt value.