A United States ½ Dime contains 0.0360 troy oz of pure silver, worth $1.95 at today's spot price.
United States struck the ½ Dime silver coin from 1853 to 1873 in 90% silver. Each coin weighs 1.244 g and holds 0.0360 troy oz (1.120 g) of pure silver. The dime was also used in Hawaii.
Melt values use these spot prices (US dollars):
- Silver $54.05 per troy oz Current quote · Quote time Oct 24, 2:49 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Some prices could not be refreshed recently and may be out of date.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 | 1853–1873 |
|---|---|
| Face value | ½ Dime |
| Composition | 90% silver |
| Gross weight | 1.244 g |
| Fineness | .900 (90%) |
| Pure metal | 0.0360 troy oz (1.12 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.
-
1.244 g × .900 fine ÷ 31.1035 g per troy oz = 0.0360 troy oz
0.0360 troy oz × $54.05 spot = $1.95
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.