1964 Washington Quarter (90% Silver)
Coin (Numismatic/Junk Silver) · Not Applicable (Silver Coinage Alloy)
Purity: None (0% Gold). This item is 90% silver and 10% copper. There is no gold content present.
Type
Coin (Numismatic/Junk Silver)
Purity
None (0% Gold). This item is 90% silver and 10% copper. There is no gold content present.
Gold Type
Not Applicable (Silver Coinage Alloy)
Weight
6.25 grams (total weight); 0.1808 troy oz of pure silver
Description
A circulated 1964 Washington Quarter. This is significant as the final year the US produced quarters for general circulation with 90% silver content before transitioning to copper-nickel clad.
Key Features
Final year of 90% silver composition; John Flanagan's bust of George Washington; reeded edge; lacks a mint mark.
Color & Finish
Silver-white with a dull, circulated grey patina. Surfaces show heavy handling marks and typical circulation toning.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Date '1964' on obverse; No mint mark (Philadelphia Mint); LIBERTY and IN GOD WE TRUST inscriptions.
Dimensions Estimate
Diameter: 24.3 mm; Thickness: 1.75 mm
Gemstones & Inlays
None
Clasp & Closure
Reeded edge finishing (standard for currency coins)
Chain & Links
Not Applicable (Solid Coin)
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-struck via high-pressure dies. Strike quality is average for high-volume circulation strikes.
Authentication Indicators
The 1964 date and white-grey luster are diagnostic of 90% silver; sound test (silver 'ring') and lack of copper 'sandwich' on the edge.
Origin & Maker
United States Mint (Philadelphia)
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern / Late Silver Era (1964)
Age Estimate
Produced in 1964; approximately 60 years old.
Cultural Significance
Represents the end of the precious metal standard for US circulating pocket change.
Condition Notes
Circulated / Very Good (VG) to Fine (F). Visible scratches, surface wear on hair details, and flattened rim edges.
Value Estimate
Primarily determined by silver 'melt' value (approx. $4-$6 USD depending on market spot price); negligible numismatic premium in this condition.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish, as this destroys numismatic value. Store in a PVC-free flip or tube to prevent further oxidation.
Similar Items
1965 Washington Quarter (Copper-Nickel Clad, no silver value); 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar (90% Silver).
Interesting Facts
Due to rising silver prices, 1964 quarters were minted by the billions and even struck into 1965 to combat hoarding during the transition to clad coinage.