The legality of destroying United States coinage, specifically those containing silver, is a frequently asked question. The act of melting down coinage, whether for its intrinsic metal value or any other purpose, is governed by federal regulations.
Historically, there have been periods where the metal value of certain coins exceeded their face value, creating an economic incentive for melting. However, current laws primarily aim to prevent the mass melting of coins that could disrupt the monetary system or deface official currency. The value of the precious metal contained within older coins can sometimes be significant, driving interest in their potential as a source of raw material.
