The intrinsic worth of a 1964 United States quarter stems from its composition. Prior to 1965, these quarters were minted with 90% silver and 10% copper. Consequently, the metallic content holds considerable value, fluctuating daily with prevailing silver market prices. For example, a single coin may contain roughly 0.18084 troy ounces of silver.
The significance of this composition resides in its potential financial benefit. Unlike post-1964 clad coinage, the silver content provides a tangible asset. Historical context is also pertinent; the transition away from silver coinage marks a significant point in U.S. monetary policy, making these coins both intrinsically valuable and historically relevant.