The final year the United States Mint produced circulating quarters composed of 90% silver was 1964. Prior to this date, these coins, also known as “silver quarters,” contained a significant amount of the precious metal, contributing to their intrinsic value.
The significance of this transition lies in the rising cost of silver during the mid-20th century. As the metal’s value increased, the silver content in circulating coinage became economically unsustainable. Replacing silver with a copper-nickel clad composition reduced production costs and stabilized the coin supply.