For circulated U.S. dimes, quarters, and halves dated 1964 or earlier, one dollar in face value contains about 0.715 troy ounce of silver after allowing for normal wear.
The equation
Face value × 0.715 × current silver spot = approximate melt value.
Example: $20 face × 0.715 = 14.3 troy ounces. Multiply 14.3 by the current spot price when you actually run the math.
What the number means
- Melt is the metal floor, not necessarily the selling price.
- Better dates, higher grades, and collector demand can add a premium.
- Use separate calculators for 40% Kennedy halves, wartime nickels, and silver dollars.
Edge check Silver coinage shows a solid silvery-gray edge. Modern clad usually shows a copper-brown stripe.
Related
- Junk-silver flip math: buy price vs. melt vs. eBay net
- Junk-silver halves: Franklin, Walking Liberty, and Kennedy 40% silver
Spot prices change throughout the day. This wiki intentionally does not publish a “current” metal price.