1968 Canada 25 Cents: Silver or Nickel?
Agate Precious Metals · Coin Education
1968 Canadian 25 Cents: Silver or Nickel?
By Agate Metals Editorial Team · Review record: September 2026
Canadian quarters dated 1968 exist in both .500 silver and nickel versions. The date alone does not establish silver content or melt value. Identify the composition before calculating metal value, then evaluate condition and collector demand separately. A magnet can help distinguish these versions, but it does not authenticate the coin.
Identifying the 1968 Canadian Quarter
Confirm the Elizabeth II portrait, Canadian denomination, readable date and caribou reverse. The N#366 reference linked here concerns the .500 silver type, not every Canadian quarter dated 1968.
Silver Versus Nickel
The nickel version is strongly attracted to a magnet. The standard silver alloy does not show that same strong attraction. Use this distinction as a sorting aid alongside design, measurements and appropriate professional verification.
A nonmagnetic result is not proof that a coin is genuine or that it contains the stated amount of silver. Do not file, drill or acid-test it.
What .500 Silver Means
A .500 fineness means that half of the alloy’s mass is silver. Use verified net coin weight rather than shipping weight or face value.
Apply this formula only after the silver version has been identified. It does not apply to the nickel version.
Melt Value Versus Collector Value
Melt value estimates contained silver at a market reference price. Collector value may reflect preservation, varieties, originality and demand. A dealer bid can differ because of verification, handling and resale costs.
Compare matching examples and record the currency, source, observation date and any fees. An asking price is not a completed sale.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is every 1968 Canadian quarter silver?
No. Both .500 silver and nickel versions were issued. Identify the composition before using a silver calculation.
Can a magnet distinguish the versions?
Strong magnetic attraction supports identification of the nickel version. Use it as a sorting check, not as complete authentication.
How is the fine-silver content calculated?
Multiply verified gross grams by 0.500, then divide by 31.1034768 to obtain fine-silver troy ounces.
Does melt value guarantee a selling price?
No. A dealer offer, retail price and collector value reflect different transaction conditions and costs.
Should I clean the quarter?
No. Preserve its surfaces and document the condition. Cleaning can reduce collector appeal.
Sources and Review Information
Review record: September 2026. No live silver price or dealer offer is quoted.