United States circulating coinage struck in 1964, specifically a denomination representing twenty-five cents, often contains a metallic element with the atomic number 47. This element constitutes 90% of the coin’s mass, the remaining 10% being copper. For instance, a coin of this description, dated 1964 and equivalent to one-fourth of a dollar, possesses approximately 0.7234 troy ounces of this precious metal.
The presence of the aforementioned metal imbues these coins with intrinsic value beyond their face value, particularly when its market price is elevated. These coins serve as a tangible asset, offering a hedge against economic uncertainty. Furthermore, they provide a link to a historical period when precious metal was more directly linked to currency, appealing to collectors and investors alike due to their metal composition.
The following sections will delve into the historical context of this coinage, factors influencing its value, methods for identifying authentic examples, and considerations for those interested in acquiring or selling such coins.
1. Composition
The metallic constitution is a defining attribute of a twenty-five cent piece struck in 1964, directly influencing its value beyond its face amount. Its specific metallic mix, where ninety percent consists of a precious metal with the atomic number 47 and ten percent is copper, dictates its intrinsic worth. The composition is not arbitrary; it represents a deliberate choice in coinage production of that era, influencing its weight, durability, and appearance. This material makeup, with its high concentration of this precious metal, distinguishes it from subsequent issues of similar denominations, whose composition shifted to base metals.
The impact of this precise composition is multifaceted. It determines the raw material cost embedded within the coin, which fluctuates in tandem with commodity market prices. As the price of the precious metal increases, the intrinsic value of the coin also rises, potentially exceeding its face value. This feature makes it of interest as a store of wealth. Furthermore, its metallic content contributes to the coin’s physical properties, such as its density and thermal conductivity, characteristics used to verify authenticity. The alloy’s composition also affects the coin’s resistance to corrosion and wear, influencing its long-term preservation and desirability to collectors.
Understanding the composition and its implications is crucial for valuation and authentication. Investors and numismatists must be aware of the precise metallic proportions. Variations in weight or appearance may indicate counterfeiting or alterations. Recognizing the importance of composition allows individuals to make informed decisions when acquiring, trading, or investing in these historical coins. This connection between composition and value is a critical factor in its sustained appeal.
2. Intrinsic Value
The intrinsic value of a 1964 quarter is directly derived from the market price of the precious metal it contains. As the coin is composed of 90% of this metal, any fluctuation in the metal’s spot price directly impacts the coin’s worth, regardless of its nominal face value of twenty-five cents. For example, if the spot price of the metal increases, the coin’s intrinsic value rises accordingly; conversely, a decrease in the metal’s price lowers its intrinsic worth. This relationship establishes a fundamental difference between this particular coin and those minted later with base metals, where value is primarily determined by circulation and collectibility, not raw metal content.
The presence of this metal makes the coin appealing as a tangible asset. Its worth can be calculated by multiplying the coin’s weight (approximately 6.25 grams) by the metal content (90%) and then by the current spot price of the precious metal per gram. This calculation provides a baseline assessment of its value before considering numismatic factors, such as condition and rarity, that might further increase its price. For instance, a well-preserved 1964 quarter may be worth several times the intrinsic value of its metal content to collectors. However, the base minimum value is always tied to the metal.
Understanding this link between metal content and market prices is crucial for those interested in collecting, investing in, or even selling these coins. Market volatility and rarity are two factors that influence the financial aspects of the coin. Knowledge of the spot prices for precious metals allows for an informed assessment of potential value and profitability and highlights the reason these coins continue to be sought after. This connection between intrinsic worth and metallic composition ensures its enduring appeal and value in both the financial and numismatic markets.
3. Weight (grams)
The mass of a 1964 United States quarter, measured in grams, is a key factor in determining its authenticity and verifying its precious metal content. The specified weight serves as a benchmark against which suspect coins can be assessed, aiding in the identification of counterfeits or altered examples. Understanding the intended weight and its permissible tolerance is essential for collectors and investors.
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Standard Weight Verification
A genuine coin of this type should weigh approximately 6.25 grams. Minor deviations are expected due to manufacturing tolerances and wear from circulation; however, significant discrepancies suggest the coin is not of the correct composition or is a counterfeit. For example, a coin weighing noticeably less may have had its metal removed, while one significantly heavier may be a base metal imitation.
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Density as an Indicator
Weight, in conjunction with diameter and thickness, can be used to calculate density. This density is directly related to the proportion of precious metal within the coin. An authentic example will have a density consistent with a 90% metal, 10% copper alloy. Discrepancies in density can indicate the presence of different metals or incorrect proportions, signaling inauthenticity. For instance, lead is denser than the precious metal found in the coin and could falsely increase the weight of a counterfeit.
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Impact of Wear and Damage
Circulation will inevitably result in some metal loss, reducing the coin’s weight over time. Heavily worn coins will weigh slightly less than their original specification. However, the weight loss is generally minimal unless the coin has been subjected to extreme conditions. For example, a coin that has been exposed to corrosive elements may have lost a more significant amount of metal, impacting both its weight and appearance. Assessing the degree of wear is important when interpreting weight measurements.
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Distinguishing from Later Coinage
Post-1964 United States quarters are composed of a copper-nickel clad alloy. These coins have a different weight and density than their 1964 counterparts. The distinct weight difference allows for quick identification. For example, comparing the weight of a 1964 quarter to a quarter from 1965 or later immediately reveals the compositional difference, even without detailed analysis.
The mass of a 1964 quarter, measured in grams, thus acts as a vital parameter. Variations from the standard weight provide critical information about authenticity, composition, and condition. The interplay between weight and material constitutes a primary assessment tool for collectors, dealers, and investors, facilitating informed decisions concerning its value and genuineness.
4. Metal Purity
The measure of precious metal refinement plays a critical role in determining the value and authenticity of a 1964 United States quarter. Assessing the degree to which it is free from other elements influences its intrinsic worth and collectability. Specific attention to purity levels is vital in distinguishing genuine examples from counterfeits or altered coins.
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Defining Fineness
Fineness refers to the proportion of the metal of interest present in an alloy, typically expressed in parts per thousand. A 1964 quarter should exhibit a fineness of 900, indicating that 90% of its mass is elemental metal with the atomic number 47, with the remaining 10% primarily copper. This specified standard defines the quality of the metal used in its production.
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Impact on Intrinsic Valuation
The purity directly impacts the intrinsic valuation. If a quarter deviates significantly from the expected 90% fineness, its value would be less than that of a genuine coin. For instance, a coin with a lower fineness due to the inclusion of cheaper base metals would have a correspondingly reduced precious metal content, lowering its raw material value.
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Analytical Techniques for Verification
Various analytical techniques can assess the fineness of the metal. X-ray fluorescence (XRF) spectroscopy is a non-destructive method used to determine the elemental composition of materials, allowing for accurate measurement. Acid testing, while less precise, can also provide an indication of purity. For example, if a coin fails to react appropriately to an acid test designed for 90% content, it may indicate an altered or counterfeit coin.
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Purity as a Distinguishing Factor
The metal purity of a 1964 quarter distinguishes it from subsequent coinage. Quarters produced after 1964 are composed of a copper-nickel clad alloy, containing no precious metal. Therefore, even a simple test to confirm the presence and measure the proportion is a key element for authentication.
In summary, assessment of the precious metal purity in a 1964 quarter is a critical step in determining authenticity, assessing intrinsic value, and distinguishing it from later base metal coinage. Analysis of purity levels by technical and other means provides valuable information for collectors, investors, and numismatists.
5. Melting Point
The melting point of a 1964 United States quarter, composed of a 90% metal with the atomic number 47 and 10% copper alloy, is directly influenced by its metallic composition. The primary metals melting point is 961.8 C (1763.2 F), while coppers is 1085 C (1985 F). The alloy’s melting point will fall within a range influenced by the proportions of each metal. This characteristic is essential for authentication purposes, as a significant deviation from the expected range suggests a different alloy composition, potentially indicating a counterfeit.
Understanding the expected melting behavior is crucial in several practical applications. For instance, assayers might use it as one method, albeit destructive, to analyze the metal composition. Scrap metal recyclers also consider the melting temperature when processing large quantities of coinage for metal recovery. Furthermore, the melting point is relevant in conservation efforts, where precise temperature control is necessary to avoid damage during cleaning or restoration processes. Any exposure to temperatures nearing the metals melting range can cause deformation or alter the coin’s surface characteristics.
In conclusion, the alloyed metal melting point is a property intrinsically linked to a coin’s metallic composition and serves as a potential, although destructive, verification method. Knowledge of this property, although infrequently used, finds niche applications in assaying, recycling, and conservation, and provides a theoretical baseline for the coins physical behavior under extreme temperatures. Accurate understanding can prevent inadvertent damage and aid in detecting fraudulent examples within the numismatic community.
6. Rarity Factors
The interplay between the composition of a 1964 quarter and the factors determining its scarcity is multifaceted. While the significant quantity of these coins initially minted suggests commonality, specific variables elevate certain examples above the norm in terms of value and collectibility. These rarity factors do not directly alter the coin’s metallic composition; instead, they amplify its desirability due to limited availability or unique characteristics. For example, errors during the minting process, such as double dies or off-center strikes, create distinct varieties that are significantly more scarce than standard-issue coins. Their limited numbers translate into higher demand among numismatists, inflating their market value despite possessing the same raw metal composition.
Beyond minting errors, the condition of a coin plays a critical role in determining its rarity and associated value. Coins that exhibit minimal wear and retain their original luster command higher prices than those that are heavily circulated and damaged. For instance, an uncirculated 1964 quarter, still retaining its original mint sheen, is considerably more valuable than a heavily worn example, even though both contain the same amount of precious metal. Furthermore, historical context can influence scarcity. Hoarding practices, or the intentional removal of these coins from circulation when metal prices rise, can reduce the availability of specific dates or mint marks, thereby increasing their rarity and associated premium. Certain mint marks are rarer than others due to lower production numbers.
Understanding the connection between rarity factors and the precious metal content of a 1964 quarter is crucial for informed decision-making in the numismatic market. These factors, while separate from the metallic composition, significantly impact the perceived value and potential investment returns. The interaction between metal content and rarity creates a complex dynamic influencing market valuation and the enduring appeal of these coins to collectors and investors alike.
7. Market Fluctuation
The market price of the metal with atomic number 47 exerts a direct and significant influence on the perceived and actual value of a United States quarter dated 1964. Its composition, which is ninety percent metal, renders it sensitive to commodity market volatility. Price movements, whether upward or downward, translate into corresponding adjustments in the coin’s intrinsic worth. This relationship distinguishes it from later coinage composed of base metals, whose value is primarily dictated by numismatic rarity or collectibility rather than elemental content. For instance, heightened industrial demand for the precious metal may drive up its spot price, consequently elevating the intrinsic value of these coins even if their condition is less than pristine.
Economic indicators, geopolitical events, and investor sentiment all contribute to the metal’s price fluctuations, creating a dynamic investment landscape for these coins. Consider the example of inflationary pressures: As inflation erodes the purchasing power of fiat currencies, investors may seek refuge in tangible assets, including the precious metal found in these coins. This increased demand can cause a rise in the spot price, thereby enhancing the value of 1964 quarters held as a store of wealth. Conversely, periods of economic stability or a decrease in industrial demand for the metal may lead to price declines, reducing their intrinsic worth. Furthermore, large-scale sales of metal reserves by governments or central banks can also exert downward pressure on prices, affecting their value.
Understanding the link between commodity market dynamics and the intrinsic value is essential for collectors and investors dealing with these coins. Regular monitoring of price trends and awareness of factors influencing the metal’s market are crucial for making informed decisions regarding acquisition, disposal, or long-term holding strategies. Although numismatic factors can add a premium, the fluctuating value derived from metal composition remains a primary driver of its overall worth and appeal.
8. Investment Potential
The investment potential inherent in a 1964 quarter is directly attributable to its composition of ninety percent metal. This substantial precious metal content imbues the coin with intrinsic value that fluctuates in correlation with commodity market prices. Consequently, its investment potential hinges on the metal’s market performance and the dynamics of supply and demand. For example, during periods of economic uncertainty or heightened inflation, investors often seek tangible assets, thereby increasing demand and driving up prices. This can significantly enhance the investment appeal, particularly when compared to base metal coinage whose value is largely determined by numismatic factors. Historical trends demonstrate that these coins have acted as a hedge against economic downturns, preserving value relative to fiat currencies. Furthermore, their finite supply and historical significance contribute to long-term investment potential.
Beyond raw metal content, numismatic considerations influence investment returns. The coin’s condition, mint mark, and any existing errors can add a premium beyond its intrinsic value. For example, an uncirculated 1964 quarter with a desirable mint mark can command a significantly higher price than a circulated example with the same metal content. Savvy investors often combine an understanding of metal market trends with numismatic expertise to maximize potential returns. Diversification strategies may involve acquiring a portfolio of these coins in varying conditions and from different mints, mitigating risk and capitalizing on opportunities for both short-term gains and long-term appreciation. The key lies in assessing the interplay between metal market fluctuations and numismatic demand.
In conclusion, the investment potential of a 1964 quarter stems from its inherent metal composition, amplified by numismatic factors and market dynamics. While challenges exist in predicting future price movements and identifying undervalued specimens, the coin’s intrinsic value provides a foundation for long-term investment strategies. Understanding both the underlying metal market and the nuances of numismatic demand is crucial for realizing its full investment potential. The interplay between its metal content, rarity, and market conditions shapes its profile as a store of value and an alternative investment asset.
Frequently Asked Questions
The following questions address common inquiries and misconceptions regarding the metallic composition and value of a United States quarter dollar coin dated 1964. Clarification of these points is crucial for informed decisions in collecting and investing.
Question 1: Why does the metal content of 1964 quarters matter?
The metal content matters because it establishes intrinsic value tied to commodity markets, unlike later quarters composed of base metals. This metallic makeup influences worth beyond its face value.
Question 2: How much metal does a 1964 quarter contain?
A 1964 quarter contains 90% metal (atomic number 47) and 10% copper, resulting in approximately 0.7234 troy ounces of the former metal per coin.
Question 3: How does one calculate the intrinsic value of a 1964 quarter?
Intrinsic value calculation involves multiplying the coin’s metal weight by the current spot price of the metal, providing a baseline valuation before numismatic considerations.
Question 4: How can I verify the metal content of a 1964 quarter?
Metal content verification involves weight measurement (approximately 6.25 grams), density calculation, and potentially, non-destructive analytical techniques like X-ray fluorescence (XRF).
Question 5: Are all 1964 quarters valuable due to their metal content?
While all 1964 quarters possess metal content, their final value depends on condition, rarity factors (mint errors, low mintage numbers), and fluctuations in precious metal market prices.
Question 6: What distinguishes 1964 quarters from subsequent coinage?
The key distinction is the composition: 1964 and prior contain 90% metal, whereas post-1964 quarters are composed of a copper-nickel clad alloy with no precious metal content.
Understanding these frequently asked questions provides a solid foundation for evaluating and appreciating this particular historical coin. Composition, valuation, and authentication form the bedrock of informed numismatic practices.
The subsequent section will focus on practical guidance for purchasing and selling coins with a composition of ninety percent of the metal with atomic number 47 , covering strategies and precautions to mitigate risks in this market.
Tips Regarding metal content of 1964 Quarters
The following guidance provides essential insights for those interested in acquiring, managing, or disposing of United States quarter dollars dated 1964. Adherence to these principles promotes informed decision-making and safeguards against potential pitfalls.
Tip 1: Prioritize Authentication: Before any transaction, verify authenticity. Compare weight (6.25 grams) and visual characteristics against known standards. Suspicious coins warrant further scrutiny from a qualified numismatist.
Tip 2: Monitor Market Prices: Track the spot price of the metal with the atomic number 47. This benchmark dictates the intrinsic value and provides a basis for assessing fair market prices, considering numismatic premiums.
Tip 3: Assess Condition Prudently: Evaluate the condition of the coin according to established grading standards (e.g., Sheldon Scale). Higher grades command premiums, reflecting enhanced preservation and reduced wear.
Tip 4: Recognize Rarity Factors: Understand the influence of mint marks (e.g., “D” for Denver, no mint mark for Philadelphia), mint errors (double dies, off-center strikes), and population reports. Scarcity amplifies value independently of metal content.
Tip 5: Document Transactions: Maintain detailed records of all acquisitions and sales, including dates, prices, quantities, and seller/buyer information. This documentation supports tax reporting and provides evidence of ownership.
Tip 6: Secure Storage: Protect coins from environmental damage (humidity, pollutants). Employ appropriate storage methods (e.g., inert coin holders, albums) to minimize tarnish and preserve condition.
Tip 7: Exercise Due Diligence When Selling: Obtain multiple appraisals from reputable dealers before selling. Understand prevailing market prices and be prepared to negotiate a fair price based on metal content and numismatic factors.
Careful attention to these tips allows for a strategic approach when engaging in related transactions. Verification, awareness, and preservation significantly influence long-term value and security.
The concluding section of this article synthesizes the key insights discussed, reinforcing the ongoing significance of these historical coins in a dynamic market environment.
Conclusion
The preceding analysis has underscored the multifaceted value associated with the composition of a United States quarter dollar dated 1964. Its inherent precious metal content, market sensitivity, numismatic considerations, and rarity factors collectively determine its worth. The information presented serves to equip collectors, investors, and enthusiasts with the knowledge necessary to navigate this segment of the numismatic market effectively. An understanding of weight, melt value, and historical context are crucial when considering this form of currency.
Continued diligence in monitoring market trends, authenticating specimens, and preserving coin quality remains paramount for maximizing long-term value. As economic landscapes evolve and numismatic interest persists, the inherent metal makeup of these coins ensures their enduring appeal. Those participating in this market must maintain awareness of evolving trends to optimize outcomes related to their investment goals.
