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1916-D Mercury Dime

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The 1916-D Mercury Dime is one of the most sought-after coins in American numismatics. It was the inaugural year for the Mercury Dime series and is a prized piece among collectors due to its low mintage, historical significance, and rarity.

Its value can vary widely based on condition, with high-grade examples commanding significant premiums.

During 1916, all branches of the US Mint were transitioning from the Barber dime to the Mercury dime. The Denver Mint focused more on producing other denominations and faced limited demand for dimes, resulting in the production of only 264,000 Mercury dimes.

These factors led to the significantly lower output compared to the Philadelphia and San Francisco mints.

Mintage Figures for the 1916 Mercury Dime

  • Philadelphia Mint (No mint mark): 22,180,080
  • San Francisco Mint (S): 10,450,000
  • Denver Mint (D): 264,000

The 1916-D Mercury Dime has the lowest mintage of the three mints, making it exceptionally rare. It is the lowest mintage in the Mercury Dime series, which was produced up until 1945.

Rarity of the 1916-D Mercury Dime

  • Exceptionally Low Mintage The Denver Mint produced only 264,000 dimes in 1916, the lowest of any Mercury Dime. This low mintage significantly contributes to its rarity.
  • First Year of Issue: Being part of the first year of issue for the Mercury Dime series adds historical significance and desirability among collectors.
  • Mint Mark Location: The “D” mint mark is located on the reverse side of the coin, to the left of the fasces (a bundle of rods) and below the olive branch.

Conditions and Value Ranges

The value of a 1916-D Mercury Dime varies greatly depending on its condition, or grade. Here are the general value ranges based on the coin’s condition:

1916-D Mercury Dime VG

The highest values are for coins in Mint State (MS) condition, which exhibit no wear and retain their original mint luster.

Collectors should be wary when buying this coin due to the presence of counterfeits that have found.

Key Characteristics and Grading Considerations

  • Strike Quality: Due to the limited production run, the 1916-D dimes often have a weaker strike compared to other years. This is an important factor in grading.
  • Wear and Tear: Coins with less wear and clear details are more valuable. Key areas to examine include the wings on Liberty’s cap, the fasces on the reverse, and the overall sharpness of the lettering and rim.
  • Luster: Original mint luster significantly impacts the value. Coins that have been cleaned or altered are less desirable.

History of the Denver Mint

The Denver Mint officially began coin production on February 1, 1906. The first coins were struck at the Denver Mint on February 1, 1906. The first coins to be produced were $20 double eagles, however, the history of the Denver Mint dates back to the discovery of gold in the Rocky Mountains in 1858.

Like other gold rushes, the discovery of gold deposits in the area led to a massive influx of settlers and created a need for a local refining and minting facility to process the gold found in the area.

In 1860, a private mint known as Clark, Gruber & Company was established in Denver that produced territorial gold coins that were used locally.

The United States Treasury purchased the Clark, Gruber & Company mint in 1862 for $25,000, with the intention of turning it into a federal mint. The facility originally operated as an assay office where gold could be deposited and exchanged for coins produced at other mints.

In 1895, Congress authorized the establishment of a new mint facility in Denver. Construction began in 1897, and the new Denver Mint building was completed in 1904.

Throughout the 20th century, the Denver Mint became one of the largest producers of coins in the United States. The mint continues to produce billions of coins annually for circulation, as well as commemorative coins, coin sets, and medals.

Coins produced at the Denver Mint are distinguished by the “D” mint mark.

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Upcoming Chicago Coin Shows

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The numismatic scene in the Greater Chicago area is vibrant and diverse, catering to both seasoned collectors and newcomers interested in coins, currency, and other collectible items. The city offers a diverse range of opportunities for coin collectors, from organizations and clubs to coin shows and specialty shops.

Numismatics enjoys a prominent place in Chicago’s cultural landscape. The city’s diverse population and historical significance have contributed to a thriving community of coin collectors and enthusiasts.

Chicago Coin Shows

World’s Fair of Money

  • Organized by the American Numismatic Association (ANA), this annual event is one of the biggest numismatic conventions globally. It features hundreds of dealers, auctions, and educational seminars.
  • The next World’s Fair of Money will occur on August 6 – 10, 2024 at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, 5555 N River Rd, Rosemont, IL 60018.

West Suburban Coin & Collectibles Expo

  • Held every second Sunday each month at the Operating Engineers Local 150 Union Hall in Countryside, Illinois. The Suburban Coin & Collectibles Expo is the Chicago areas only monthly recurring show. Featuring more than 10,000 square feet of floor space and up to 85 dealers selling a variety of US coins, world coins and other numismatics, along with precious metals, bullion, silver and gold coins.
  • Upcoming Dates: August 11, 2024 & September 8, 2024.

Illinois Numismatic Association Coin Show

  • The Illinois Numismatic Association (ILNA) was established in 1959 to promote numismatics in the state. The group hosts an annual coin show. This year’s show will be held at the Tinley Park Convention Center.
  • Upcoming Dates: September 5-7, 2024.

Northwest Coin Club Fall MONEY Show

  • The MONEY Show is held twice per year at the Heritage Center in Brooklyn Center, Minnesota. Coin dealers from around the country will be in attendance. NWCC Fall MONEY Show
  • Upcoming Dates: October 11, 12 & 13, 2024.

Dealers at coin shows offer a wide range of coins, including ancient coins, world coins, and modern issues. New collectors can find everything from affordable starter coins to rare and valuable pieces.

Large coin shows and expos often feature educational seminars and workshops on topics such as coin grading, authentication, historical insights, and investment strategies. These sessions are beneficial for new collectors looking to deepen their knowledge.

Whether you are building a collection or investing in precious metals, coin shows provide valuable resources and connections in the numismatic and investment communities.

Chicago Coin Shops and Numismatic Resources

Chicago is home to several well-known coin shops and resources that cater to collectors:

Coin Shops and Dealers

  • Harlan J. Berk, Ltd.:
    • Location: Located in downtown Chicago, Harkan J. Berk is one of the premier destinations for numismatists. They offer a vast selection of ancient, world, and U.S. coins.
    • Services: Besides buying and selling coins, they provide appraisals and numismatic consulting services.
  • Chicago Coin Company:
    • Specialties: The Chicago Coin Company is a long established shop known for their wide variety of U.S. and world coins, as well as precious metals. They also deal in paper currency and offer appraisal services.
  • Morton Grove Coins & Collectibles:
    • Offerings: Morton Grove Coins & Collectibles is located in Morton Grove, Illinois shop offers a range of rare pieces from a variety of currencies, plus silver & gold jewelry & bullion coins, with a focus on personalized service and education for collectors.

Chicago Coin Club:

  • Meetings and Events: The Chicago Coin Club, established in 1919, is one of the oldest and most active numismatic clubs in the country. They hold regular meetings, which often feature guest speakers, auctions, and educational programs.

Chicago Public Library:

  • Collections: The Harold Washington Library Center has a robust collection of numismatic literature and resources, providing a valuable resource for research and education.

Illinois Numismatic Association (ILNA):

  • Activities: ILNA organizes coin shows, educational programs, and offers scholarships for young collectors. They play a significant role in promoting numismatics throughout Illinois.
  • Annual Convention: ILNA hosts an annual convention, attracting collectors and dealers from across the region.

Northwest Coin Club:

  • Meetings: Founded in 1934, the Northwest Coin Club hosts regular meetings featuring presentations, show-and-tell sessions, and auctions. The club is active in organizing local shows and educational events. Past presentations have included History and Review of Civil War Tokens by Michael Dohmen.
  • Upcoming meetings – August 8, 2024, September 12, 2024 & October 10, 2024. The NWCC Fall MONEY Show is scheduled for October 11, 12 & 13, 2024.
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BRICS Demand Driving Gold Prices and Dumping US Treasuries

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The BRICS nations and new prospective members have been actively increasing their gold reserves while reducing their holdings of US Treasury bonds.

The World Gold Council reported that BRICS countries were the largest buyers of gold in 2022 and 2023, with this trend continuing into 2024.

In 2024, China alone offloaded $53.3 billion worth of US Treasury bonds while accumulating substantial amounts of gold.

Similarly, India recently added an additional 9 tons of gold to its holdings after repatriating more than 100 tons of its assets from London vaults earlier this year, aligning with the broader BRICS strategy.

Growing Interest in BRICS Membership

The BRICS alliance is attracting interest from numerous developing countries, many of which are eager to join the bloc and participate in its de-dollarization agenda.

In 2024 alone, around 10 new countries have expressed interest in joining BRICS, with 30 countries formally submitting applications and another 15 expressing informal interest.

The 16th BRICS summit, scheduled for October 2024 in Russia’s Kazan region, is expected to discuss the induction of new member countries as well as the introduction of a new gold-backed currency unit.

This collective economic strength could challenge the dominance of traditional Western-led financial institutions like the IMF and World Bank.

This would reduce reliance on Western markets and create a more diversified global economy. Together the BRICS countries account for more than 40% of the world population and a quarter of the global economy.

By reducing reliance on the US dollar and increasing gold reserves, BRICS countries aim to strengthen their local currencies from the volatility of the US dollar.

So far, this strategy has led to increased gold prices in recent years due to higher demand from central banks, while simultaneously putting downward pressure on the value of the US dollar.

China and Russia Gold Reserves

Historically, gold was used to back currencies directly under the gold standard, where the value of a currency was directly linked to a specific amount of gold.

China has been one of the most aggressive gold buyers, adding approximately 225 tonnes to its reserves in 2023 alone.

China’s housing market is experiencing a downturn while the banking sector has seen instability, with 40 banks disappearing in one week and being absorbed by larger institutions.

While China has put a pause on buying in recent months, demand from Chinese investors continues to move gold from the West to the East.

Prior to the start of the war in Ukraine, Russia’s long term strategy has been to diversify its reserves away from the US dollar. Overall, the sanctions placed by the West following the invasion have had little impact on the Russian economy.

Russia has also been a significant buyer of gold. Earlier this year, the country announced that it allocated $2.5 billion for foreign currency and gold purchases, with its reserves standing at around 2,352 tonnes.

Strategic Impact on Global Markets

The increased gold reserves of BRICS countries are part of a broader strategy to reduce reliance on the US dollar and bolster financial stability. Here’s how this affects global markets:

By increasing their gold reserves and reducing their holdings of US Treasury bonds, BRICS nations are pushing towards de-dollarization. This shift is aimed at reducing their vulnerability to fluctuations in the dollar and US economic policies.

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2024 Uncirculated Morgan and Peace Silver Dollars available from the US Mint

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The United States Mint has announced the availability of the 2024-P Uncirculated Morgan and Peace Silver Dollars. These modern renditions are composed of .999 fine silver and are available for purchase on the US Mint website for $91 each.

The mintage for each coin is limited to just 275,000 pieces. Premiums for previous issues of Morgan and Peace Silver Dollars have risen significantly in recent years.

For example, the 2021 Peace Dollar had an issue price of $85 from the Mint. In today’s market, this coin sells for around $300 from online dealers, while Greysheet puts the value range at $85 to $143. Reputable dealers on eBay are selling graded 2021 Peace Dollar MS70 coins certified by either NGC or PCGS for $350 and up.

The original government packaging encapsulates each coin which is placed in a stylish clamshell with an elegant blue presentation box. The box is stamped with the official United States Mint seal and wrapped with an outer sleeve that incorporates an image of the coin’s obverse. The package includes a certificate of authenticity.

2024 Morgan and Peace Silver Dollars Release Details

Design and Specifications:

  • Material: .999 fine silver
  • Price: $91 each
  • Mintage Limit: 275,000 for each coin
  • Order Limit: 25 coins per household for the first 24 hours
  • Denomination: $1 USD
  • Finish: Uncirculated
  • Silver Weight: 0.859 troy ounces
  • Diameter: 38.1mm (1.5 inches)
  • Edge: Reeded
  • Mint Mark: None – Philadelphia Mint

Obverse and Reverse Designs:

  • Morgan Dollar Obverse: Features Liberty with a cap, flora, and a crown inscribed with “LIBERTY,” and thirteen stars
  • Morgan Dollar Reverse: Depicts an eagle with outstretched wings, arrows, an olive branch, and a wreath
  • Peace Dollar Obverse: Features Liberty wearing a radiant crown
  • Peace Dollar Reverse: Shows an eagle at rest holding an olive branch above the inscription “PEACE”

Proof versions of the Morgan and Peace dollars, along with a two-coin reverse proof set, are scheduled to be issued by the U.S. Mint in the fall.

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US Mint to issue DC Comics Commemorative Coins

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The United States Mint has announced a first of its kind collaboration with DC Comics to launch a new series of collectible coins and medals celebrating DC comic book art.

The new series will debut during the Summer of 2025 kick off with Superman, Batman, and Wonder Woman. The series will feature three additional DC characters per year in 2026 and 2027.

The public is invited to vote for the DC Super Heroes they would like to see included in the series. Voting will be open from July 10 to August 11, 2024.

This collectible series will include 24-karat gold coins, .999 fine silver medals, in addition to non-precious metal (clad) medals.

To participate in the voting, you can complete the survey found at the bottom of the Comic Art page on the US Mint website. Follow the instructions in the survey and select the characters you would like to see featured in future years.

DC Comics was founded in 1934 as National Allied Publications and is one of the oldest comic book publishers globally. Its rich history and iconic characters make it a natural fit for this collaboration with the Mint.

The United States Mint has a longstanding tradition of issuing commemorative coins and medals that honor American values, icons, and significant historical moments. This new venture continues that tradition by celebrating the cultural impact of comic book art.

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Comparing SPDR Gold ETF vs Physical Gold

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When it comes to investing in gold, both gold ETF and physical bullion are top options giving investors exposure to precious metals.

The SPDR Gold Trust is the oldest gold ETFs available to investors. Established in 2004, SPDR Gold Trust allows investors to gain exposure to gold without the need for physical storage, while physical gold offers direct ownership of the metal.

How do gold ETFs stack up against buying physical gold bars? The answer may surprise you.

While many investors prefer the convenience of ETFs because of the quick trades and easy trades via traditional broker apps. However, nothing provides the same financial security of having physical possession of your assets.

How has the SPDR Gold ETF performed in comparison to a similar investment in physical gold bars?

The initial offering price per share for SPDR Gold Trust was $43.90 a share in 2004. Each share represents roughly 1/10 oz of gold. At the time, physical gold was trading at $409.72 per ounce.

Analysis: $1,000 Investment in SPDR Gold Trust vs. Physical Gold (2004-2023)

A $1,000 investment in SPDR Gold Trust in 2004 would net 22.78 share. The same investment in physical bullion would have net roughly 2.44 troy ounces of .9999 fine gold.

The graph below shows the annual value change of a $1,000 investment in SPDR Gold Trust and physical gold from 2004 through 2023:

price performance comparison gold etfs vs physical gold 2004 to 2023
Performance Comparison of Physical Gold vs SPDR Gold ETF 2004-2023
Orange Line – Physical Gold Performance
Yellow Line – SPDR Gold ETF Performance

SPDR Gold ETF Performance

  • Initial Price (2004): $43.90 per share
  • Value of $1,000 Investment in 2023: $4,120.27
  • Growth Factor: The investment grew approximately 4.12 times over the period.

Physical Gold Performance

  • Initial Price (2004): $409.72 per ounce
  • Value of $1,000 Investment in 2023: $4,564.09
  • Growth Factor: The investment grew approximately 4.56 times over the period.

Key Observations of Gold ETF vs Gold Bars

  1. Overall Growth: Both investments provided substantial returns, with physical gold bars slightly outperforming the SPDR Gold Trust.
  2. Volatility: Both investments experienced significant fluctuations, particularly during periods of economic instability and market changes.
  3. Performance Peaks: Both investments saw notable increases in value during the financial crisis of 2008-2009 and during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, reflecting gold’s role as a safe-haven asset.

Conclusion

Investments in either a gold etf or physical gold have proven to be effective at preserving and growing wealth during the period from 2004 to 2023. While physical gold slightly outperformed the SPDR Gold Trust, both showed strong resilience and growth, especially during periods of economic uncertainty. Investors looking for exposure to gold can consider either option, depending on their preference for holding physical assets versus paper assets.

Investment Value Comparison Table

To better understand the year-by-year value changes, the table provided offers detailed insights into the performance of both investments

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Costco Silver Coin Availability

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While gold bars and coins are now offered almost daily, the offerings for Silver Eagles and Canadian Maple Leaf Silver Coins have been less frequent.

To purchase silver coins from Costco, you must be a Costco member, which comes with an annual membership fee.

For investors that also like to maximize credit card rewards and other rebates, buying silver coins from Costco’s website can be a good way to bank up extra points and rebates. Some chose to maximize the potential rewards by upgrading to the Executive Membership, which provides for 2% cash back in the form of a rebate from Costco.

While it’s not publicly disclosed who handles the fulfillment, logic would suggest that one of the US Mint’s Authorized distributors are involved, such as APMEX or A-Mark.

The combined availability of PAMP gold bars and US Mint Wholesale products leads many industry insiders to speculate in favor of APMEX, due to the strategic investment MKS PAMP purchased in September 2023.

The level of sales volume Costco’s channels likely provides the warehouse retailer with deep discount on American Silver Eagles and other bullion coins that aren’t available to other precious metals dealers.

This also provides a relief valve for precious metals wholesalers who have been accumulating secondary market silver eagles due to other investors that are selling and looking for quick cash.

Selling newly minted American Silver Eagles at a discount also helps to raise investor awareness and encourages mainstream adoption of using precious metals as a store of value.

Pricing for silver coins is displayed to members on the product page only when inventory is available.

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Donald Trump Silver Rounds

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While the US Mint has yet to honor the former president with an official coin, supporters, investors and collectors have become quite keen on Donald Trump Silver Rounds in recent months.

Since the 2016 election, several private mints have issued silver rounds and bars in various sizes, as well as gold rounds. These rounds serve as a commemorative item for both supporters and haters of Donald Trump, allowing them to own a piece of political history.

President Trump’s popularity grew stronger after the Biden administration began prosecuting the former president based on never before tried novel legal theories. Since the recent Supreme Court decision on presidential immunity, and Biden’s performance at the first debate, polling numbers show that support for Trump continues to rise.

These silver round could be seen as a hedge against inflation, with the potential for value appreciation due to their unique design and historical significance.

Trump Mugshot 1 oz Silver Round

Based in Winchester, Indiana, the team at Silvertowne Mint is responsible for issuing the 1 oz Trump Mugshot Silver Round.

Trump’s mugshot became a highly publicized and symbolic image during his legal battles, particularly stemming from his indictment and arrest in Fulton County, Georgia. taken during Trump’s arraignment in

The obverse features a reproduction of the infamous mugshot portrait, showing Trump with a stern, defiant expression, wearing a dark suit and red tie. Surrounding the portrait “Wanted For a Second Term” is inscribed.

The reverse shows the White House, with six stars above it in a triangle pattern. Surrounding the picture are the phrases “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and “ONE TROY OUNCE .999 FINE SILVER”.

1 oz Trump 2024 Silver Round

The commemorate the election campaign, these private mint Trump 2024 silver rounds show the former president standing in front of a large American flag background, with the words “Trump 2024” inscribed in the design.

The reverse shows an eagle, with the words “United States of America”, “45th President” and “e pluribus unum” inscribed, along with the weight, purity and “MP” mintmark.

1 oz Trump ‘The Don’ Silver Round

Produced by the CutSaw Mint, 1 oz Trump “The Don” Silver rounds feature a full surface mug shot, with the height lines from the wall used as a background. The placard shows the words “Never Surrender” and “The Don.”

The reverse shows a perspective portrait of the White House, the words “The White House” and is inscribed with the weight and purity and AG.

Trump Portrait 45th President 1/4 oz Gold Round

While no official gold coin has been minted with the former president’s image, Money Metals Exchange has minted an exclusive 1/4 oz gold round that features a headshot of Trump on the obverse. Along the top edge of the round “Donald J. Trump” is inscribed, while “45th President” is inscribed to the lower right. The Money Metals Exchange logo hallmark is to the lower left.

The reverse features a detailed portrait of the White House and is inscribed with the weight and purity. While Money Metals Exchange is the exclusive retailer for these rounds, quantities are limited and some have fetched higher premiums at auction.

Trump – 45th President 1 oz Silver Round

Produced by Elemetal, these 45th President Trump Silver Round contains 1 troy ounce of .999 fine silver that pays homage to President Donald Trump.

Obverse features the profile of President Trump with his right hand in the air. Inscribed with “Donald J Trump” and “45th President”. The familiar columns of The White House are pictured on the reverse, along with inscriptions, “The White House” and “1 oz 999 AG”.

The design of this silver round is also available in a High Relief 2 oz Silver Round

10 oz Mount Trumpmore Silver Bar

The creative team at Scottsdale Mint designed the obverse of the 10 oz Mount Trumpmore Silver bar with a unique high-relief silver bar that inserts a bust of the head of former President Donald Trump among the founding fathers on Mount Rushmore. There is no doubt that Trump remains a polarizing political figure with a strong following.

The reverse of this silver bar contains the colonial flag originally designed by Betsy Ross with 13 stars in a circle.

As more evidence of long term corruption in DC continues to be exposed, Trump has earned a place in American history as the 45th President of the United States. His rise in popularity as a leading political figure reinforces the disdain many Americans feel towards both parties.

For Trump’s supporters, purchasing these rounds could be a way to express their political allegiance.

The novelty and rarity of a Trump-themed silver rounds makes an interesting addition to a collection

As silver rounds, they carry the intrinsic value of the metal and can be an effective hedge against inflation, with the potential for value appreciation due to their unique design and historical significance. The unique design and theme of Trump Silver Rounds might add some collector’s value, but it’s the silver content that usually drives the price.

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Which quarters are worth money?

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junk silver quarters

The American quarter, also known as the quarter dollar, has been a mainstay in U.S. coinage since its introduction in 1796. It is minted by the U.S. Mint with a face value of 25 cents, or one-fourth of a dollar. Despite significant decreases in purchasing power over time due to inflation, the quarter remains a fundamental part of U.S. currency.

All quarters dated 1964 and earlier were minted with 90% silver alloyed with 10% copper, the standard for silver coinage dating back hundreds of years. Beginning in 1965, the US Mint abandoned using silver for circulating coins due to rising silver prices and began issuing modern clad quarters that are still in use today.

Early American Quarters

The designs of the quarter have evolved over the years. Starting with the Draped Bust Quarter 1796, followed by the Capped Bust and Seated Liberty Designs were the mainstays of the 19th century.

1796 – Draped Bust Quarter: The first quarter was minted in 1796, featuring the Draped Bust design by Robert Scot. This design depicted Liberty with flowing hair and a draped bust on the obverse and an eagle surrounded by a wreath on the reverse.

Draped Bust Quarter

1804-1838 – Capped Bust Quarter: Following the Draped Bust design, the Capped Bust quarter was introduced. Designed by John Reich, this coin featured Liberty wearing a cap on the obverse and a simplified eagle on the reverse.

1838-1891 – Seated Liberty Quarter: The Seated Liberty design by Christian Gobrecht was used from 1838 to 1891. This design showed Liberty seated on a rock, holding a shield and a pole with a cap on the obverse, and an eagle with a shield on the reverse.

These early American quarters were minted in much lower quantities than today, making them highly sought after by collectors. Even worn and circulated Draped Bust quarters from the early 1800s can be worth $600 to $4,000 depending on the condition and year.

20th Century Quarters

1892-1916 – Barber Quarter: The Barber quarter, designed by Charles E. Barber, was in circulation from 1892 to 1916. This design featured Liberty with a laurel wreath on the obverse and a heraldic eagle on the reverse.

Even though Barber quarters are sometimes mixed with junk silver, these coins are prized by collectors. The value of common date Barber quarters can range from $10 to $15 in good condition up to around $100 in extra fine condition. Higher grades and uncirculated Barber quarters can command thousands at auction. Recently, a 1913-S Barber Quarter in Good (G4) condition realized over $2,500 at a Heritage Auctions event.

1916-1930 – Standing Liberty Quarter: Introduced in 1916, the Standing Liberty quarter was designed by Hermon A. MacNeil. It depicted Liberty standing with a shield and an olive branch on the obverse and an eagle in flight on the reverse.

Circulated Standing Liberty Quarter

The value of an early Standing Liberty quarter in circulated but good condition with a fully visible date can vary significantly based on the specific year and mint mark. The Type 1 design which showed bare breasts on the obverse, was initially shunned by the public. These coins were issued only in 1916 and early 1917 before being replaced with the Type 2 design. Type 1 Standing Liberty quarters in good condition are much rarer and in good condition are worth up to $300, while uncirculated coins typically sell for thousands at auction.

1932-Present – Washington Quarter: The Washington quarter was first issued in 1932 to commemorate the 200th birthday of George Washington. Designed by John Flanagan, this coin features a profile of Washington on the obverse and an eagle with outstretched wings on the reverse. All Washington quarters minted before 1965 are made from 90% silver and is valued based on the intrinsic value of the metal.

The current circulating coin is a derivative of Flanagan’s original design, maintaining the iconic image of Washington.

20th Century Quarters Worth Money

1. 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter

  • Details: This is the first year of issue for the Standing Liberty quarter series, designed by Hermon A. MacNeil. The coin features Lady Liberty holding a shield and an olive branch.
  • Mint Mark: No mint mark; minted in Philadelphia.
  • Value: In mint state (MS) condition, it can fetch prices upwards of $25,000 to $100,000 or more, depending on the grade.

2. 1918/7-S Standing Liberty Quarter

  • Details: This is a rare overdate variety where the “8” in the date was struck over a “7.”
  • Mint Mark: “S” mint mark for San Francisco.
  • Value: In high grades, this coin can be worth $15,000 to over $80,000.

3. 1927-S Standing Liberty Quarter

  • Details: Low mintage of only 396,000 coins makes it one of the key dates in the series.
  • Mint Mark: “S” mint mark for San Francisco.
  • Value: In high grades, this coin can range from $2,500 to over $30,000.

4. 1932-D Washington Quarter

  • Details: The first year of issue for the Washington quarter, designed by John Flanagan. The Denver mint had a relatively low mintage of 436,800 coins.
  • Mint Mark: “D” mint mark for Denver.
  • Value: High-grade examples can be worth between $5,000 and $30,000.

5. 1932-S Washington Quarter

  • Details: Another key date in the Washington quarter series with a low mintage of 408,000 coins.
  • Mint Mark: “S” mint mark for San Francisco.
  • Value: High-grade coins can range from $5,000 to $25,000.

6. 1950-D/S Washington Quarter

  • Details: This is a popular over mint mark variety where a “D” was stamped over an “S.”
  • Mint Mark: “D” over “S” for Denver.
  • Value: In mint state condition, it can be worth several hundred to a few thousand dollars.

7. 1964-D Washington Quarter

  • Details: This coin is notable for the doubled die obverse variety, where the date and lettering are doubled.
  • Mint Mark: “D” mint mark for Denver.
  • Value: High-grade examples can fetch prices in the range of several hundred to a few thousand dollars, depending on the degree of doubling.

8. 2004-D Wisconsin Quarter with Extra Leaf

  • Details: A state quarter featuring an extra leaf on the corn stalk, either in a high or low position.
  • Mint Mark: “D” mint mark for Denver.
  • Value: Depending on the variety and condition, these coins can be worth $300 to $2,000.

Factors Affecting Value

  • Condition (Grade): Coins in mint state (MS) condition with no wear are generally more valuable. Coins are graded on a scale from 1 to 70, with higher numbers indicating better condition.
  • Rarity: Low mintage numbers or coins with unique features, such as errors or varieties, tend to be more valuable.
  • Historical Significance: Coins from significant years or first-year issues can be more sought after.
  • Demand: Popularity among collectors can drive up the value of certain coins.

Conclusion

These quarter dollar coins minted since 1900 are some of the most valuable due to their rarity, condition, and historical significance. Collectors and investors prize them for their unique characteristics and the stories they represent in the history of American coinage. If you own any of these coins, it is advisable to have them graded by a professional grading service to determine their condition and maximize their potential value.

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PAMP Suisse Converts Florida Airplane Hanger into New Silver Refinery

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MKS PAMP Group’s Expansion into North America

MKS PAMP Group’s decision to repurpose an aviation hangar in Florida for a silver mint reflects a strategic move to capitalize on robust investment demand in North America.

By enhancing its production capacity in the U.S., MKS PAMP Group is positioning itself to better serve the North American market.

Production Capacity and Product Offerings

The new Florida facility can produce over 20 million troy ounces of silver products annually, including 1-ounce silver rounds and 10-ounce bars. These privately minted, coin-shaped pieces of silver cater to both investment and industrial demands. The ability to produce such a significant quantity of silver products positions MKS PAMP Group to meet the ongoing demand in the U.S. and potentially the Middle East, where their products have also performed well.

Global Silver Market Trends

Investment Demand Shifts

The global investment market for silver bars and coins experienced notable shifts in 2023, with significant declines in Germany and India. The slump in these major markets can be attributed to policy changes and market dynamics:

  • Germany: Sales collapsed by 73% in 2023 following an increase in the Value Added Tax (VAT) on some silver products.
  • India: Recorded a 38% decrease in demand due to various economic factors.

Despite these declines, the U.S. market remained relatively resilient, with only a 13% decrease in demand. This resilience is crucial for mints and refiners seeking stable outlets for their products.

Price Movements

Spot silver prices have risen by 27% in 2024, reaching an 11-year high on May 20. This increase is part of a broader rally in precious metals, including gold and copper. While global physical investment in silver bars and coins is expected to fall further after a 28% slump in 2023, the U.S. market continues to provide a significant outlet for investment products.

Strategic Implications

Strengthening Market Presence

By expanding its production capabilities in Florida, MKS PAMP Group is strengthening its market presence in a key region. This move allows the company to better serve North American investors who have shown sustained interest in PAMP Suisse silver products. Additionally, the ability to produce large quantities of silver rounds and bars enhances the group’s ability to meet both current and future demand.

Adapting to Market Conditions

The shift in global investment demand highlights the importance of adapting to market conditions. MKS PAMP Group’s expansion into Florida demonstrates a proactive approach to addressing changes in regional demand patterns. By focusing on the U.S. market, which remains historically high in terms of silver investment demand, the group can mitigate the impacts of declines in other markets.

Conclusion

MKS PAMP Group’s expansion into Florida reflects a strategic response to the evolving dynamics of the global silver market. By increasing production capacity in North America, the group is well-positioned to capitalize on strong investment demand in the U.S. and other resilient markets. This move not only strengthens their market presence but also ensures they can continue to provide investment-grade silver products to investors amid shifting global trends.