Pre-1964 Silver Coins: What They're Worth and Where to Sell Them in The Woodlands

If you’ve come across a stash of old coins dated before 1964, you may be holding something far more valuable than face value. At Woodlands Gold and Coin, we help people every day who are selling pre-1964 silver coins in The Woodlands—and many are surprised at just how much they’re worth.
These coins are commonly known as junk silver, but don’t let the name fool you. They’re called “junk” simply because they aren’t rare collectibles—they’re valuable because of their silver content, not condition. If you’re holding old dimes, quarters, or half dollars, read on to see what you’ve got.

Why 1964 Matters: The Silver Cutoff 

Before 1965, U.S. dimes, quarters, and half dollars were made of 90% silver. Due to rising silver prices, the U.S. Mint changed the composition in 1965 to a copper-nickel blend, removing silver from everyday coinage.
That means coins minted in 1964 and earlier are significantly more valuable today—especially when silver prices are high.

Common Pre-1964 Silver Coins

These are the coins you want to keep an eye out for:

• Dimes (90% silver)
  
  • Mercury Dimes (1916–1945)
    
  • Roosevelt Dimes (1946–1964)
    
• Quarters (90% silver)
  
  • Washington Quarters (1932–1964)
    
• Half Dollars (90% silver)
  
  • Walking Liberty (1916–1947)
    
  • Franklin (1948–1963)
    
  • Kennedy (1964 only—later years are 40% or clad)
    

Each of these coins contains 0.715 ounces of pure silver per $1 face value, making them a favorite among silver stackers and collectors alike.

What Are Pre-1964 Coins Worth? 

Their value depends on:

• Current silver spot price
  
• Total face value of your coins
  
• Condition (though less important for junk silver)
  
• Rarity or collectible versions (some have numismatic value)
  

As of today, $1 face value of 90% silver coins can sell for $18–$22 or more, depending on the market.

Why Sell to a Local Silver Coin Buyer in The Woodlands 

When you're ready to sell pre-1964 silver coins in The Woodlands, working with a local expert like Woodlands Gold and Coin offers several advantages:

• Immediate payment based on live silver prices
  
• Accurate appraisals by experienced coin buyers
  
• No-pressure atmosphere—you’re welcome to shop around
  
• We buy single coins or entire bags of junk silver
  

Whether you're selling one coin or a full collection, we’ll walk you through the process with honesty and transparency.

Tips for Selling Your Old Silver Coins 

• Don't clean the coins — this can lower collectible value
  
• Separate coins by denomination to speed up appraisal
  
• Look for key dates that might carry extra value
  
• Bring all silver coins, even foreign ones—we evaluate everything!
  

Sell Junk Silver Coins in The Woodlands Today!

Have a coffee can of old coins? A collection passed down from a relative? Now’s a great time to sell your pre-1964 silver coins and get paid based on the true metal value. At Woodlands Gold and Coin, we specialize in buying silver coins and junk silver at competitive rates.

👉 Need a trusted Silver Coin Buyer in The Woodlands?
Call us to book an appointment —we're ready to appraise your coins and make you a no-obligation offer today.