"US Constitutional Silver": A Cornerstone for Collectors and Stackers 

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For anyone delving into the world of precious metals, the term "constitutional silver" is sure to come up. But what exactly is it, why is it so popular, and what are those quirky nicknames people use for it? Let's break it down.

What is Constitutional Silver?

Simply put, "constitutional silver" refers to U.S. dimes, quarters, and half dollars minted before 1965(eg 1964 and earlier). These coins were composed of 90% silver and 10% copper. The Coinage Act of 1965 significantly reduced or eliminated silver from circulating coinage, making these pre-1965 issues particularly sought after for their intrinsic metal value.

While the term broadly refers to these 90% silver coins, it's worth noting that some dollar coins (Morgan and Peace dollars) also contain 90% silver, though they are often considered separately due to their larger size and sometimes higher numismatic value. Additionally, some Kennedy half dollars from 1965-1970 contained 40% silver, and "war nickels" (1942-1945) contained 35% silver, but these are generally not included in the "constitutional silver" category.

Dates of U.S. Coins that are 90% Silver:

Here's a breakdown by denomination:

• Dimes:

  • Barber Dime (1892-1916)

  • Mercury Dime (1916-1945)

  • Roosevelt Dime (1946-1964)

• Quarters:

  • Barber Quarter (1892-1916)

  • Standing Liberty Quarter (1916-1930)

  • Washington Quarter (1932-1964)

• Half Dollars:

  • Barber Half Dollar (1892-1915)

  • Walking Liberty Half Dollar (1916-1947)

  • Franklin Half Dollar (1948-1963)

  • Kennedy Half Dollar (1964)

• Dollars:

  • Morgan Dollar (1878-1904, 1921)

  • Peace Dollar (1921-1928, 1934-1935)

"Nicknames" for 90% Junk Silver

You'll often hear various terms thrown around when discussing constitutional silver, especially in bulk form. While some of these might seem a bit informal, they're widely understood within the precious metals community:

• Junk Silver: This is perhaps the most common and widely recognized term. It refers to circulated 90% silver coins whose value is primarily derived from their silver content, rather than any numismatic (collector) value. Don't let the name fool you – there's nothing "junk" about the silver within them!

• 90% Silver: A straightforward and accurate description of the metal content.

• Pre-65 Silver: A clear indicator of the minting date range.

• Face Value Silver: Often used when referring to bags or rolls of these coins, as their weight and silver content are typically calculated based on their original face value ($1 face value of 90% silver coins contains approximately 0.715 troy ounces of silver).

• "Mercs" or "Walkers": These are informal shorthand for Mercury Dimes and Walking Liberty Half Dollars, respectively, often used by stackers who favor these particular designs.

Why Do People Stack Silver?

The reasons for accumulating or "stacking" silver, particularly constitutional silver, are varied and compelling:

1. Inflation Hedge: Silver has historically served as a hedge against inflation. As the purchasing power of fiat currencies declines, the value of tangible assets like silver tends to rise, preserving wealth.

2. Tangible Asset: Unlike stocks, bonds, or digital currencies, physical silver is a tangible asset you can hold. This provides a sense of security and control, especially during times of economic uncertainty.

3. Diversification: Adding silver to an investment portfolio can help diversify holdings and reduce overall risk. Silver's price movements often differ from those of traditional financial assets.

4. Affordability & Accessibility: Compared to gold, silver is significantly more affordable per ounce, making it an accessible entry point for new investors or those with smaller budgets. Constitutional silver, in particular, offers smaller, divisible units.

5. Industrial Demand: Silver is not just a precious metal; it's also an essential industrial commodity used in electronics, solar panels, medical applications, and more. This ongoing industrial demand provides a fundamental floor to its value.

6. Potential for Growth: Silver's price has a history of significant appreciation, offering the potential for capital gains as market conditions and demand evolve.

7. Historical and Collectible Appeal: While "junk silver" primarily holds bullion value, the historical significance of these coins adds an extra layer of appeal for many stackers. Owning a piece of American history with intrinsic value is a powerful draw.

Whether you're a seasoned investor or just starting your journey into precious metals, constitutional silver offers a unique blend of historical charm, tangible security, and investment potential. It's a foundational element in many precious metal portfolios, and understanding its nuances is key to making informed decisions.

Ready to Add to Your Stack or Sell Your Silver?

At JoCo Coin Shop, we're always interested in buying constitutional silver and other precious metals. If you have any questions or are looking to make a transaction, don't hesitate to reach out!

Call or Text: 913-815-0952 Email: jococoinshop@gmail.com