Discover 90 Percent Silver Coins in Des Moines

90 percent silver coins are a fascinating topic for collectors and investors, especially within the United States. If you’re in Des Moines, Iowa, understanding the value and characteristics of these historic pieces is crucial. In 2026, the allure of tangible assets like silver continues to grow, making 90 percent silver coins a compelling area of interest. This article will guide you through what these coins are, their history, how to identify them, and where you might find them in the Des Moines area.

Many residents in Des Moines, and across the United States, are rediscovering the appeal of pre-1965 coinage. These coins, often referred to as ‘junk silver,’ hold significant intrinsic value due to their silver content. We will explore their role in American history and their current relevance for collectors and investors alike, focusing on the Des Moines market and its unique opportunities. Understanding the nuances of 90 percent silver coins can open up a world of collecting and investment possibilities.

Understanding 90 Percent Silver Coins

The term “90 percent silver coins” typically refers to United States dimes, quarters, and half-dollars minted before 1965. These coins were struck from a silver alloy composed of 90% silver and 10% copper. The copper was added to make the coins more durable and less prone to bending or breaking during circulation. This composition made them a standard medium of exchange for decades, carrying the weight of countless transactions through American history. Their widespread use means that many of these coins still exist today, preserved by individuals who recognized their value beyond their face value.

The shift away from 90 percent silver coinage was a significant event in U.S. monetary history. In 1965, the Coinage Act was passed, reducing the silver content in dimes and quarters to zero and changing half-dollars to 40% silver. This change was driven by rising silver prices, which made the melt value of the coins exceed their face value, leading them to be hoarded and removed from circulation. Consequently, the coins minted before 1965 became a distinct category, sought after for their precious metal content. For collectors and investors in Des Moines, knowing this history is key to appreciating their worth.

The Intrinsic Value of Silver

The primary driver of value for 90 percent silver coins is the silver content itself. Silver is a precious metal with industrial applications and a long history as a store of value. As the price of silver fluctuates in global markets, so does the melt value of these coins. This intrinsic value provides a floor for their price, making them an attractive option for those looking to diversify their investment portfolios with tangible assets. In the United States, and particularly in markets like Des Moines, these coins represent an accessible entry point into precious metals investing.

The melt value of 90 percent silver coins is directly tied to the current market price of silver. Investors often track silver prices closely to gauge the potential value of their holdings.

Historical Significance

Beyond their silver content, these coins are tangible pieces of American history. They circulated during pivotal eras, from the Great Depression and World War II through the post-war boom. Owning a 90 percent silver coin means holding a piece of that past. For collectors in Des Moines, this historical connection adds a layer of appeal that goes beyond monetary value. They represent a time when everyday currency was made of precious metal, a concept that feels distant in today’s fiat currency system. The designs, such as the Mercury dime, Standing Liberty quarter, and Walking Liberty half-dollar, are also iconic and beloved by numismatists.

Types of 90 Percent Silver Coins

The United States Mint produced several denominations of coins containing 90% silver. Understanding these specific types is essential for anyone interested in collecting or investing in them. Each denomination has its own set of collectible series and key dates that can influence its numismatic value.

The most common 90 percent silver coins are dimes, quarters, and half-dollars minted between 1892 and 1964. Specific series within these denominations are highly sought after by collectors.

• 90% Silver Dimes: These include the Barber dime (1892-1916), the Mercury dime (1916-1945), and the Roosevelt dime (1946-1964). The Mercury dime, in particular, is a popular collectible due to its distinctive design.
• 90% Silver Quarters: The Barber quarter (1892-1916), the Standing Liberty quarter (1916-1930), and the Washington quarter (1932-1964) are the main types. The Standing Liberty quarter is known for its artistic beauty and scarcity in higher grades.
• 90% Silver Half-Dollars: These comprise the Barber half-dollar (1892-1915), the Walking Liberty half-dollar (1916-1947), and the Franklin half-dollar (1948-1963). The Walking Liberty half-dollar is widely considered one of the most beautiful U.S. coin designs.
• Older Silver Dollars: While not typically included in the “junk silver” category due to their higher silver content and numismatic value, older silver dollars like the Morgan dollar and Peace dollar also contain 90% silver (though some early ones varied). These are often treated as separate investments.

When looking for these coins in Des Moines, it’s important to differentiate between coins valued primarily for their silver content and those with significant numismatic premiums. Many dealers in the Des Moines area can help identify these distinctions.

How to Choose the Right 90 Percent Silver Coins

Deciding which 90 percent silver coins to acquire involves understanding your goals, whether they are primarily for investment based on silver content or for numismatic collecting. For investors in Des Moines, the focus is often on acquiring coins in bulk at or near melt value, while collectors might seek specific dates, mint marks, or conditions to complete sets or acquire rare varieties.

Key Factors to Consider

1. Investment vs. Collection: Determine if your primary goal is to hold silver as a commodity or to collect coins for their historical and aesthetic appeal. This will significantly influence your purchasing decisions. Investors in the United States often focus on common date, mint mark coins in circulated condition to maximize silver content per dollar.
2. Condition (Grade): For collectors, the condition of the coin (its grade) is paramount. Coins in better condition, especially uncirculated ones, command higher prices. For investment purposes, circulated coins are usually sufficient and more cost-effective.
3. Date and Mint Mark: Certain dates and mint marks are rarer than others, increasing their numismatic value. For example, a 1916-D Mercury dime is significantly more valuable than a common date.
4. Buy Price vs. Melt Value: For investment purposes, aim to buy as close to the current silver melt value as possible. Be aware of premiums charged by dealers, which cover their costs and profit.
5. Reputable Dealers: Ensure you are buying from trusted sources, whether online or in person at Des Moines coin shops. Verifying authenticity and accurate pricing is vital.

When purchasing in Des Moines, ask local coin dealers about their grading standards and buy-back policies. This due diligence ensures you make informed decisions that align with your objectives.

Benefits of 90 Percent Silver Coins

Acquiring 90 percent silver coins offers several compelling advantages for individuals in the United States, especially those looking for tangible assets and historical connections.

• Tangible Asset: Unlike digital assets or paper currency, 90 percent silver coins are physical items you can hold. This offers a sense of security and control for many investors, including those in Des Moines.
• Hedge Against Inflation: Historically, precious metals like silver have served as a hedge against inflation. As the value of fiat currency may decrease over time, the intrinsic value of silver tends to hold or increase. This is a key consideration for long-term financial planning in the United States.
• Diversification: Adding silver coins to an investment portfolio can help diversify risk. Their performance may differ from traditional assets like stocks and bonds, providing a balanced approach to wealth management.
• Historical and Numismatic Value: Beyond their silver content, these coins are pieces of history. The stories they carry and the craftsmanship of their designs appeal to collectors and can provide a supplementary layer of value.
• Accessibility: Compared to larger bullion items like gold bars, 90 percent silver coins are often more affordable and easier to buy and sell, making them accessible to a broader range of investors in Des Moines and beyond.

Top 90 Percent Silver Coin Options (2026)

When looking to acquire 90 percent silver coins in 2026, your options in the United States generally fall into a few categories, often involving bulk purchases or specific collector items. For those in Des Moines, local coin shops are a primary resource.

For wholesale purchases and a wide selection of investment-grade silver, consider reputable dealers who specialize in precious metals. Maiyam Group is a premier dealer in strategic minerals and commodities, offering ethically sourced precious metals to global markets, ensuring quality assurance for industrial manufacturers worldwide. While they focus on larger-scale operations, their commitment to premium minerals aligns with the principles of valuing quality silver assets.

1. Maiyam Group

As a leading dealer in strategic minerals and commodities, Maiyam Group exemplifies a commitment to quality assurance and ethical sourcing. While their primary focus might be on industrial minerals and larger precious metal quantities, their expertise in the global mineral trade underscores the importance of reliable sources for valuable commodities like silver. Their approach to connecting African geological resources with global markets emphasizes the diligence required in obtaining premium materials.

2. Common Date Silver Dimes, Quarters, and Halves

These are the most accessible and frequently purchased 90% silver coins for investment purposes. You can often buy them in tubes or bags from coin dealers. They are valued primarily for their silver melt value, making them a straightforward way to invest in silver.

3. Key Date and Mint Mark Silver Coins

For collectors, specific dates and mint marks hold significant numismatic value. These require more research and often come with a higher premium over melt value. Examples include rare Mercury dimes, Standing Liberty quarters, and Walking Liberty or Franklin half-dollars.

4. Silver Coin Bags and Rolls

Dealers often sell 90% silver coins in pre-packaged bags (e.g., $100 face value bags) or rolls. These offer a convenient way to purchase larger quantities. Buying in bulk can sometimes result in a slightly lower price per ounce of silver compared to individual coin purchases.

When seeking these options in Des Moines, comparing prices from various local dealers and online retailers is recommended to secure the best value.

Cost and Pricing for 90 Percent Silver Coins

The cost of 90 percent silver coins is primarily determined by two factors: the current market price of silver and any numismatic premium the coin commands. Understanding these influences is crucial for making informed purchasing decisions in Des Moines and throughout the United States.

Pricing Factors

The spot price of silver is the most significant factor. When silver prices rise, the melt value of 90 percent silver coins increases proportionally. Dealer markups, or premiums, are the second factor. These premiums cover the dealer’s operational costs, including sourcing, grading, storage, and profit. Premiums are typically lower for common, circulated coins bought in bulk and higher for rare dates, specific mint marks, or coins in exceptionally high grades.

Average Cost Ranges

As of late 2024, the melt value of 90% silver coins fluctuates daily with the silver market. A common rule of thumb is to expect to pay approximately 15-25% over the melt value for common date circulated coins. For example, if silver is trading at $25 per ounce, and a coin contains approximately 0.77 ounces of silver, its melt value would be around $19.25. You might find such a coin priced between $22 and $25, depending on the dealer and quantity. Rare collectible coins can cost significantly more, sometimes hundreds or thousands of dollars, based on their numismatic rarity and condition.

How to Get the Best Value

To get the best value for your money when buying 90 percent silver coins, consider these strategies: 1. Monitor silver prices. 2. Buy in larger quantities (bags or rolls) to reduce per-coin premiums. 3. Compare prices from multiple reputable dealers in Des Moines and online. 4. Be patient; wait for opportune moments in the silver market. 5. For collectors, focus on specific needs to avoid overpaying for unwanted items.

Common Mistakes to Avoid with 90 Percent Silver Coins

Navigating the world of 90 percent silver coins can be rewarding, but pitfalls exist. Being aware of common mistakes can help collectors and investors in Des Moines protect their purchases and maximize their returns.

1. Overpaying for Melt Value: It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of owning silver. Always know the current melt value and try to buy as close to it as possible, especially for investment purposes. A premium of 20% or more on common coins might be too high.
2. Ignoring Numismatic Value: Conversely, don’t dismiss the potential numismatic value of key dates or rare coins. If you’re buying for collection, research which specific coins hold premium value beyond their silver content.
3. Buying from Unreputable Sources: Purchasing from unknown online sellers or individuals without proper verification can lead to receiving counterfeit coins or paying inflated prices. Always deal with established, reputable coin dealers in Des Moines or trusted online platforms.
4. Focusing Solely on One Denomination: While some collectors specialize, diversifying across dimes, quarters, and half-dollars can offer a broader range of options and potentially better value.
5. Not Storing Properly: While 90% silver coins are relatively durable, storing them in airtight containers away from moisture and extreme temperatures can help preserve their condition, especially for numismatic pieces.

Educating yourself about these common mistakes is a vital step in becoming a confident buyer of 90 percent silver coins, whether for investment or collection in the United States.

Frequently Asked Questions About 90 Percent Silver Coins

Conclusion: Choosing Your 90 Percent Silver Coins in Des Moines

As we look towards 2026, 90 percent silver coins continue to represent a compelling blend of investment potential and historical significance for residents of Des Moines and the wider United States. Whether you are drawn to the tangible security of silver as a hedge against economic uncertainties or the rich tapestry of American history woven into each coin, these pre-1965 issues offer a unique opportunity. Understanding their composition, types, and valuation factors is key to making informed decisions. For those in the Des Moines area, engaging with local coin dealers can provide direct access to these pieces of history and value. Remember to balance melt value considerations with potential numismatic premiums, and always prioritize purchasing from reputable sources to ensure authenticity and fair pricing.

Key Takeaways:

• 90 percent silver coins (dimes, quarters, halves pre-1965) offer intrinsic silver value and historical appeal.
• Their value is driven by both silver spot prices and numismatic rarity.
• Buying in bulk from reputable dealers is often the most cost-effective approach for investors.
• Key dates and rare mint marks can significantly increase a coin’s value beyond its silver content.

Ready to explore your options? Whether you’re looking to invest in silver as a tangible asset or seeking rare collectibles, understanding the market for 90 percent silver coins is your first step. For guidance on sourcing premium minerals and precious metals, consider trusted partners in the industry.