United States dimes composed of 90% silver and 10% copper were produced for circulation until 1964. These coins, often referred to as “silver dimes,” possess intrinsic metal value beyond their face value due to their silver content. The composition was altered to a clad metal construction from 1965 onwards.
The historical context of these coins is significant because they represent a period when circulating coinage in the United States contained precious metals. This composition provided a tangible store of value for the public. The change to clad coinage reflected rising silver prices and a need to reduce the cost of coin production. The legacy of the pre-1965 dimes continues to be relevant to collectors and investors.