Coins can be more valuable than you think, especially old U.S. quarters minted before 1965. These older quarters are made of 90% silver, meaning their value can be much higher than their face value of 25 cents. Unlike modern quarters, which are made of cheaper metals like copper and nickel, pre-1965 quarters can be worth several dollars just for their silver content. In this article, we’ll look at three strategies you can use to make quick cash by recycling these valuable coins.
Why Are Pre-1965 Quarters Valuable?
Before 1965, U.S. quarters were made with 90% silver, which gives them a higher value today. Each quarter from this period weighs 6.25 grams, and about 5.6 grams of that is silver. The price of silver changes over time, but even old quarters in bad condition can fetch a few dollars because of the silver they contain. For example, in 2014, a 1964 quarter in mint condition sold for $47.15, which would be worth around $61 in today’s money. Even if your old quarters aren’t in perfect shape, they still have value.
1. Check Your Loose Change
The easiest way to start looking for valuable old quarters is by checking the loose change you already have. Look around your house, car, drawers, pockets, and even piggy banks. You might already have some old pre-1965 quarters without realizing it. Since millions of these coins are still in circulation, there’s a chance you could come across them. Make it a habit to check the date on all your quarters, and set the pre-1965 ones aside.
2. Ask To Sort Through Coins from Friends and Family
Another great way to find old quarters is to ask your friends and family if you can look through their spare change. Most households have a coin jar or drawer with loose change. Let them know you’re looking for old quarters, and offer to split any profits from valuable finds. This can be a fun and easy way to search through a lot of coins at once.
3. Purchase Quarter Rolls at the Bank
If you want to search through a large number of quarters quickly, consider buying quarter rolls from your local bank. A roll contains 40 quarters, meaning you’ll pay $10 per roll. While there’s no guarantee you’ll find pre-1965 quarters, you might get lucky and find some in older rolls. The more rolls you search through, the better your chances of discovering valuable quarters.
Table: Value of Pre-1965 Quarters Based on Condition
| Condition of Quarter | Estimated Value |
|---|---|
| Poor Condition | $3 – $5 |
| Average Condition | $6 – $15 |
| Mint Condition | $40 – $60+ |
Conclusion
Old quarters can be a surprising source of extra cash, especially if they were minted before 1965 and contain silver. By checking your loose change, asking friends and family, or purchasing rolls of quarters from the bank, you could find valuable coins worth much more than 25 cents. So, next time you come across a quarter, make sure to check the date—you might have a small fortune in your hands!
FAQ’s
How do I know if a quarter is valuable?
Check the date. If it was minted before 1965, it is made of 90% silver and could be worth more than its face value.
Where can I sell pre-1965 quarters?
You can sell them to rare coin dealers, at coin shows, or online through auction websites.
Can I find pre-1965 quarters in circulation today?
Yes, millions of these quarters are still in circulation, so it’s possible to find them in your loose change or from rolls at the bank.