what year coins have silver in them

[TheoAnn]

Based on the provided information, United States dimes, quarters, half-dollars, and dollar coins minted in 1964 or in prior years contain a significant amount of silver. These specific coins are typically composed of 90% silver and 10% copper. This category of coinage is often referred to as "junk silver," a numismatic term indicating that their value is derived primarily from the intrinsic worth of their silver content rather than any collectible or numismatic premium.

Following 1964, the composition of U.S. coinage was changed, and silver was largely eliminated from circulating currency due to the rising market price of the metal. However, there are notable exceptions to this general rule. Kennedy half-dollars minted between 1965 and 1970 contain a reduced silver content of 40%. Furthermore, another important exception includes the "war nickels," which are Jefferson nickels produced from 1942 to 1945. These coins can be identified by a large mint mark above the dome of Monticello on the reverse and were made with a 35% silver alloy to conserve nickel for the war effort.

The provided context also mentions "bullions," which refers to modern coins, such as the American Silver Eagle, that are minted by governments specifically for investment purposes and are not intended for general circulation. These bullion coins are typically made of high-purity silver.