Expert: PAPAJACK - 9/3/2007

Question
i seen that you have had a question already about this but i to have came upon a 1963 quarter that seems to be made of aluminum.. is there anything else that you have found out about this?

Answer
Hello Mark,                         

There were no aluminum Quarters made purposely by the US Mint.

In 1963 the Washington Quarter was composed of 90% Silver and 10% copper.  It otherwise was the same size and as post 1963 quarters. Post 1963 coins are copper core with a bright nickel coating.  
This silver coin weighed 6.25 grams, this gave them a different look and sound from today’s Nickel covered copper coins that weigh only 5.67 grams each. This is why they look different. Silver will tarnish or look grayish over time. Also being a soft metal it wears from use becoming thinner and smaller.
An aluminum coin this size would weigh much less. Please write me back if you find the coins grossly underweight.


Check the edge reeding. Have the serrations worn down as well?
Silver coins being an alloy do not have a copper core and appear the same color all through the edge.

This time it is good for you since silver coins are currently worth about 8 or 9 times their face value.

As for numismatic or collectable value. A worn condition on a common date coin the value is only slightly above its silver melt value.

I hope this information helps.

Feel free to ask any question on US Coins. And Please remember to rate this answer.

Good Luck

PapaJack