How to Tell the Difference between Silver & Clad Minted Coins

Whether your goal in expanding your coin collection is to sell silver coins or to display them, it is a valuable skill to be able to tell the difference between silver and clad minted coins. In earlier years, the metallic content of coins played a critical role in determining its overall worth and value. However, as the price of precious metals began to rise, many countries stopped using silver in the composition of their coins. As you seek to acquire coins for your collection, this guide will help you identify the difference between silver and clad minted coins.

 Composition of Silver and Clad Minted Coins 

 When it comes to the difference between silver and clad minted coins, the distinction lies in the metallic composition of each. U.S. silver coins are minted using a combination of silver and copper, while clad minted coins have a copper core and an outer layer that is made of copper and nickel. We’ll discuss in further detail ways that you can identify which type of coin you have in your possession.

 Value of Silver and Clad Minted Coins 

 In the world of precious metals, silver holds intrinsically more value than copper or nickel. Having said that, it isn’t difficult to understand why many countries have ceased the use of silver altogether in the production of coinage. However, it is this very fact that makes silver coins more attractive in the eyes of coin collectors and coin investors. But keep in mind that the value of certain clad minted coins appreciates over time. This is evident in older two, three and five cent coins whose value has only grown through the years.

 Dates of Silver and Clad Minted Coins 

 All in all, the easiest way to distinguish between silver and clad minted coins is to confirm the date of production. All dimes and quarters that were minted in 1964 and earlier contain silver. Conversely, all dimes and quarters minted after this year, with the exception of some commemorative and proof coins, were minted without silver. For half dollars, all coins minted from 1971 onward contain no silver.

 Physical Differences between Silver and Clad Minted Coins 

 When it comes to weight, silver coins are heavier than clad minted ones. As a concrete example, silver Washington quarters weigh 6.3 grams, while clad Washington quarters are 5.7 grams. The exterior of both also differ in the aging process. The tone of silver coins changes, resulting in tarnishing, while a copper tint appears on clad coins. The sound is also different for each when both coins are dropped. Silver coins have a higher pitched sound and ring to them, while non-silver coins have more of a dull thud.

Atlanta Gold and Coin Buyers