The value of a collection of pre-1965 U.S. quarters with a face value of $10, commonly assembled in rolls, is significantly tied to the silver content of those coins. Before 1965, quarters were composed of 90% silver. Therefore, the intrinsic worth of such a roll is not the stated $10, but rather the total silver weight multiplied by the current spot price of silver. As an example, a typical roll contains 40 quarters. Calculating the silver content and applying the current market price will yield its actual value.
The inherent precious metal content offers a tangible benefit as a hedge against economic instability. Unlike fiat currency, silver retains intrinsic value, making these coins a potentially stable investment. Furthermore, this method of valuation provides historical context, reflecting a time when coinage contained precious metals and served as a more direct store of wealth. This contrasts sharply with modern clad coinage which possesses negligible intrinsic worth.
