The metallic makeup of United States currency, specifically concerning the presence of a precious metal within certain denominations, refers to the blending of silver with other elements. This combination was employed to create coinage possessing both intrinsic and face value. For instance, dimes, quarters, and half-dollars produced prior to 1965 often contained a 90% silver and 10% copper alloy.
The employment of a precious metal in coinage provided an inherent worth, potentially bolstering public confidence in the currency. Historically, these coins served as a tangible store of value, and their metallic content influenced their acceptance and use in both domestic and international transactions. The inherent worth also offered a degree of protection against inflation, as the metal itself retained value.
