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The Mystery Unveiled: When Did They Stop?
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Many believe silver coin production halted in the '60s, but is that the whole story?
In 1792, the U.S. Mint began striking silver coins. But by the early '60s, silver's value surpassed coin face values.
Silver hoarders started removing these coins from circulation, causing a massive shortage.
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Historical Turning Point: 1965
President Lyndon B. Johnson's law changed coin composition. Silver-clad half dollars lingered until 1970.
Silver coins vanished at different times across the nation. Memories vary.
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The End of an Era? Not Quite!
Silver coins staged a comeback in 1971 with copper-nickel clad Kennedy halves and Ike dollars.
In 1976, special bicentennial designs graced quarters, half dollars, and dollars in both copper-nickel and 40% silver.
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Revival of Commemorative Coin
1982 saw the return of official commemorative coins, including a 90% silver George Washington half dollar.
1982 saw the return of official commemorative coins, including a 90% silver George Washington half dollar.
From 1986, the American Silver Eagle, a one-ounce silver bullion coin, has delighted collectors.
In 1992, 90% silver dimes, quarters, and half dollars made a comeback in special proof sets.
From 2010, five-ounce silver America the Beautiful quarters added to the Mint's impressive silver offerings.
The U.S. Mint still strikes various silver coins for collectors, but these aren't released into circulation.
While not in circulation since 1970, diligent collectors occasionally find silver coins. Keep searching!