1964 Washington Quarter, 90% Silver Coin
Coin/Bullion · United States Mint (Philadelphia or Denver workshop)
Pattern: Washington Quarter, George Washington Obverse / Bald Eagle Reverse
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
United States Mint (Philadelphia or Denver workshop)
Material
90% Silver, 10% Copper (0.1808 troy oz actual silver weight)
Dimensions
Diameter: 24.26 mm; Weight: 6.25 grams
Description
A classic American silver quarter-dollar. The 1964 issue is iconic among silver stackers as the final year of high-purity silver coinage before the transition to copper-nickel clad compositions in 1965.
Key Features
1964 date is the primary indicator of silver content compared to clad versions; distinctive 'ping' sound when dropped or tapped.
Material & Composition
90% Silver, 10% Copper (0.1808 troy oz actual silver weight)
Finish & Decoration
Business strike, matte-to-lustrous finish; features George Washington in profile (obverse) and an eagle with outstretched wings (reverse)
Hallmarks & Stamps
Labeled 'LIBERTY', 'IN GOD WE TRUST', and date '1964'; check for 'D' mint mark on reverse for Denver mint
Construction Details
Die-struck at a government mint using hydraulic presses on silver planchets
Functional Features
Reeded edge (to prevent clipping/shaving of metal during circulation), legal tender denomination
Handle & Grip Details
N/A (Numismatic item)
Craftsmanship Details
Standard government-grade industrial striking; high-relief detail typical of the mid-20th century minting process.
Authentication Indicators
Correct 1964 date; presence of silver core visible on the edge (no copper 'sandwich' line); weight of ~6.25g.
Origin & Manufacturing
United States of America; Philadelphia (no mint mark) or Denver ('D' mark)
Era & Period
Modern Era / Mid-Century US Coinage; last year of 90% silver circulation strikes
Age Estimate
Dated 1964 (60 years old)
Cultural Significance
Represents the end of the bimetallic standard for small-change circulation and a shift in US monetary policy.
Condition Notes
Circulated condition; moderate surface wear on Washington's hair and cheek; visible scratches and contact marks; light tarnish/patina.
Value Estimate
$4.50 - $6.50 (primarily based on silver spot price + small premium); higher for uncirculated specimens.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish if numismatic value is desired; store in PVC-free flips or tubes to prevent 'milk spots' or environmental damage.
Similar Pieces
1964-D Quarter (Denver mint), 1960-1963 Quarters (identical composition), 1965 Clad Quarter (no silver).
Interesting Facts
Due to the rise in silver prices in the mid-1960s, millions of these coins were hoarded by the public, leading to the 1965 Coinage Act.