The financial value of a United States quarter dollar coin minted in 1960, and composed of 90% silver, is primarily dictated by two factors: its silver content and its condition. The melt value, representing the intrinsic worth of the silver within the coin, fluctuates with the prevailing silver market price. Numismatic value, on the other hand, depends on factors such as rarity, mint mark, and overall state of preservation. For example, a well-preserved 1960-D quarter (minted in Denver) will generally command a premium over a heavily circulated specimen.
The significance of these coins stems from their historical role as circulating currency and their subsequent transition into collector’s items. Coins from this era represent a tangible link to a period when precious metals were integral to U.S. coinage. Furthermore, they offer a relatively accessible entry point for individuals interested in numismatics and precious metal investing. Their silver content provides a potential hedge against inflation and economic uncertainty, adding to their appeal.