90% Silver Coins (Junk Silver)

The evolution of Junk Silver

Surprisingly, U.S. coins like the dime, half-dollar, and quarter-dollar were once minted with genuine silver. While today's coins from the U.S. Mint may appear silver in color, they are actually made from a blend of copper and nickel.   A significant shift occurred in 1965 with the enactment of the Coinage Act of 1965 by Congress. This legislation was a response to coin shortages exacerbated by the introduction of the Kennedy Half Dollar and high demand for various 90% silver coins, posing a significant challenge for the United States Mint.   To address these shortages, the 1965 law completely removed silver from U.S. coins. The only initial exemption was the half dollar, which retained its 90% silver content until subsequent legislation in 1970 also eliminated silver from this denomination.   While enthusiasts of silver coins may have lamented the diminished value of their favorite constitutional pieces, the silver content of 90% junk silver coins had been integral for many years before the Coinage Act of 1965 altered their composition and worth.   Today, consumers can acquire substantial quantities of circulated or uncirculated junk silver coins, maintaining their original purity of 90% silver. The demand for these coins has grown over time, with many bullion collectors advocating that constitutional junk silver remains one of the most economical ways to invest directly in the value of silver.   Reflecting on what the bullion industry might have been like had Congress never discontinued 90% silver coins from the U.S. Mint's offerings is speculative. However, one certainty is that the abundant supply of 90% Junk Silver coins dating back to the early 20th century presents modern investors with a practical opportunity to invest in silver without the high cost associated with bullion pieces.