What is coin silver?

Coin silver is a term used to describe a type of silver alloy that was commonly used in the United States during the 18th and 19th centuries. It is composed of approximately 90% silver and 10% copper, making it slightly lower in purity than sterling silver which contains 92.5% silver.

Coin silver gets its name from the fact that it was often made from melted down coins, particularly American currency minted before 1965 when coins contained a higher percentage of silver.

While coin silver is not as pure as sterling silver, it is still valuable and sought after for its historical significance and unique patina that develops over time. Many antique silver items, such as flatware, serving pieces, and decorative objects, were made from coin silver.

Due to its lower silver content, coin silver is generally softer and more prone to tarnishing than sterling silver. However, it is still a popular choice for collectors and enthusiasts of antique silverware.