The metal became so overproduced that by early 1893, the silver content of a silver dollar was worth only 60 cents. Under the policy of bimetallism, gold and silver both secured the backing for US currency. As the value of silver continued to plummet, jittery silver owners rushed to exchange their silver for gold coins. Silver dimes, quarters, half dollars and silver dollars are worth many times their face value today. Each coin is heavy with 90% silver and valued accordingly. As these coins are sold their price is based on their metal content. However, some business-strike and proof Eisenhower dollars were struck in a 40% silver format — those silver Eisenhower dollar coins are generally worth $5 to $10. American Silver Eagles When the United States Mint began making bullion coins in 1986, the American Silver Eagle quickly became a popular coin.