
A United States silver quarter, specifically one minted prior to 1965, has a standard weight of 6.25 grams. This is equivalent to approximately 0.22 troy ounces. The composition of these coins is an alloy of 90% silver and 10% copper, a standard established to provide durability for circulation while maintaining a high precious metal content.
It is crucial to differentiate between the total weight of the coin and its actual silver weight (ASW). Given the 90% purity, the mass of the pure silver within each quarter is 5.625 grams, which corresponds to 0.18084 troy ounces. This specific measurement is essential for determining the intrinsic bullion value of the coin based on the current market price of silver.
Following the Coinage Act of 1965, the United States Mint ceased the production of 90% silver quarters for circulation. Quarters minted from 1965 onward are composed of a copper-nickel clad and have a slightly different weight of 5.67 grams. These contemporary coins contain no silver, marking a significant change in the material makeup of the nation's coinage.


