How Much Silver Is in a 1964 Nickel?
Last Updated Apr 10, 2020 10:37:11 AM ET
A 1964 Jefferson U.S. nickel has 0 percent silver content. The only widely circulated U.S. coins of the time with significant silver content were quarters and dimes.
According to the United States Mint, when the 5-cent piece was first introduced, it was called a half-dime and had a high silver content. Rising metals prices caused a change to a nickel-copper combination in 1866. Coinflation.com points out that during World War II, from 1942 to 1945, nickels had about a 35 percent silver content due to nickel being valued for armor plating. Quarters had a 90 percent silver content until the Coinage Act of 1965.
More From Reference

How Do You Apply for Social Security Benefits?

How Did the VW Beetle Become an Emblem of the '60s?

We Explain the Complicated History of Myanmar and Aung San Suu Kyi

Financing the Future: Setting Up Savings Plans for Grandchildren

Responsible Retirement: What's the Maximum Amount You Can Contribute to a 401(k)?

10 Small Business Grants for Women Entrepreneurs