A United States 20 Cents contains 0.1447 troy oz of pure silver, worth $7.82 at today's spot price.
United States struck the 20 Cents silver coin from 1875 to 1878 in 90% silver. Each coin weighs 5 g and holds 0.1447 troy oz (4.500 g) of pure silver. The cent was also used in British Caribbean Territories, British Honduras, British North Borneo, Brunei, Canada, Ceylon and other countries.
Melt values use these spot prices (US dollars):
- Silver $54.05 per troy oz Current quote · Quote time Oct 25, 3:09 AM EDT
Some prices could not be refreshed recently and may be out of date.
Melt value is the metal content at spot price, not a buy or sell price. Collectible coins can be worth much more. For reference only.
Specifications
| Years | 1875–1878 |
|---|---|
| Face value | 20 Cents |
| Composition | 90% silver |
| Gross weight | 5 g |
| Fineness | .900 (90%) |
| Pure metal | 0.1447 troy oz (4.5 g) |
How the melt value is worked out
Melt value is the pure silver in the coin multiplied by the spot price. We use the coin's standard minted weight; worn coins weigh slightly less.
-
5 g × .900 fine ÷ 31.1035 g per troy oz = 0.1447 troy oz
0.1447 troy oz × $54.05 spot = $7.82
Melt value vs. collector value
Melt value is a floor, not a price. Better dates, coins with mint luster and graded coins often sell well above melt; key dates and rare varieties can be worth many times more. Check the date and mint mark before selling a coin for its metal.