United States quarters composed of 90% silver and 10% copper were a standard part of circulating coinage for an extended period. These coins, often referred to as “silver quarters,” represent a significant era in American numismatic history. The presence of silver in these coins gave them an intrinsic value beyond their face value, making them attractive to collectors and investors alike.
The historical context surrounding the composition of these coins is directly tied to the fluctuating price of silver. As the market value of silver increased, the intrinsic value of these coins began to exceed their face value. This created an economic incentive for individuals to remove them from circulation, prompting the need for a change in the coin’s metallic composition. The shift away from silver was a response to maintain the stability of the coinage system.