Are Canadian Quarters Silver?
The quick answer and how to tell if your quarters contain silver.
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This guide answers the question: are Canadian quarters silver? Canadian quarters minted in 1967 or earlier contain 80% silver and are worth more than face value. This page explains how to identify silver quarters and what they are worth. If you have old quarters, upload photos for a free appraisal.
The Quick Answer
Canadian quarters made in 1967 and earlier contain 80% silver.
Quarters from 1968 onward are made of nickel and contain no silver.
Silver vs. Non-Silver Quarters
Silver Quarters
1967 and Earlier
- • 80% silver content
- • 0.150 troy oz of silver
- • Worth $3.50 - $6+ each
- • Reeded (grooved) edge
- • Heavier feel
Nickel Quarters
1968 and Later
- • Pure nickel (no silver)
- • Worth face value (25¢)
- • Reeded edge
- • Lighter weight
- • Magnetic
How to Identify Silver Quarters
The easiest way to tell if a Canadian quarter contains silver:
1. Check the Date
1967 or earlier = Silver
1968 or later = No silver
This is the simplest method. All Canadian quarters dated 1967 and earlier contain 80% silver. All quarters from 1968 onward are nickel.
2. Look at the Edge
Silver quarters have a uniform silver-colored edge. Nickel quarters from 1968+ may show a copper-colored stripe on the edge.
3. Magnet Test
Silver quarters are NOT magnetic. Nickel quarters ARE magnetic. Use a strong magnet to test - if it sticks, it's nickel (no silver).
4. Weight Test
Silver quarters weigh 5.83 grams. Nickel quarters weigh 5.07 grams. If you have a scale, silver quarters will feel noticeably heavier.
Special Note: 1967 Centennial Quarters
1967 quarters feature a special commemorative design (Canadian lynx) to celebrate Canada's 100th birthday. These are popular with collectors and all contain silver. Learn more about 1967 quarters →
Have silver quarters? We buy Canadian silver coins. Upload photos for a free appraisal.
Start Free AppraisalWhat Are Silver Quarters Worth?
Canadian silver quarters (1967 and earlier) are worth more than face value:
- Silver Content Value: $3.50 - $6.00+ depending on current silver prices
- 1967 Centennial: Often worth slightly more due to collector interest
- Rare Dates: Some earlier dates can be worth significantly more to collectors
- Bulk Value: If you have many silver quarters, they're worth selling for their silver content
Why Did Canada Stop Using Silver?
In the 1960s, the price of silver rose dramatically. It became too expensive to use silver in everyday coins. Canada phased out silver from circulation coins in 1968, switching to cheaper nickel.
This makes pre-1968 Canadian quarters valuable today - they contain real silver that's worth more than the coin's face value.
Common Questions
Are 1968 quarters silver?
No. Unlike dimes (which had both silver and nickel versions in 1968), all 1968 quarters are nickel and contain no silver.
How much silver is in a quarter?
Canadian silver quarters contain 0.150 troy ounces of pure silver (80% silver content, 5.83 gram total weight).
Should I keep silver quarters?
Yes! Silver quarters are worth much more than face value. Keep them separate from regular quarters or consider selling them for their silver value.
Related Guides
1967 Quarter Value Guide
Complete guide to Centennial quarters
Are Canadian Dimes Silver?
Quick guide to silver dimes
Which Canadian Coins Are Silver?
Complete guide to all silver Canadian coins
Canadian 50-Cent Value
Half dollar value guide
Sell Your Silver Quarters
We buy Canadian silver quarters from 1967 and earlier. Whether you have a few coins or a bag full, upload photos for a free appraisal and find out what they're worth.
Upload Coin PhotosThis guide answers the question: are Canadian quarters silver? Canadian quarters minted in 1967 or earlier contain 80% silver. This page explains how to identify silver quarters and what they are worth. Upload photos for a free appraisal.
How Coin Values Are Determined
Four key factors influence what a coin is worth. Understanding these helps you know what to look for.
Rarity
Coins with low mintage numbers or surviving in small quantities are worth more. A coin minted in the millions is common; one minted in the thousands can be scarce.
Condition
Collectors grade coins from Poor (heavily worn) to Mint State (uncirculated). A coin in excellent condition can be worth many times more than the same coin in worn condition.
Silver or Gold Content
Many older Canadian coins contain 80% silver. Even a common silver coin has a base value tied to the current silver price, regardless of collector demand.
Collector Demand
Some coins are actively sought by collectors, which drives prices higher. Key dates, varieties, and coins from popular series attract more buyers.