What Is Your 2016-S Fort Moultrie Silver Quarter Worth?

The 2016-S Fort Moultrie Silver Quarter is worth anywhere from $10 in standard proof condition to over $50 for high-grade specimens. While these coins weren’t meant for your pocket change, finding one in an old collection can be an exciting discovery for any casual collector.

Understanding the 2016-S Fort Moultrie Silver Quarter

If you have stumbled upon a shiny quarter featuring a soldier and a flag, you likely have the Fort Moultrie (Sullivan’s Island) design from the America the Beautiful series. However, not all Fort Moultrie quarters are created equal. The “S” mint mark indicates it was struck at the San Francisco Mint. While San Francisco produced clad (copper-nickel) versions, the 90% silver version is what collectors truly hunt for. Using a free coin identifier app can help you confirm the metal composition and mint mark of your find in seconds.

The 2016-S Fort Moultrie silver quarter was part of a special set released by the United States Mint. These were not released into general circulation, meaning you won’t typically find them in a vending machine or as change from the grocery store. Most of these coins are part of “Proof Sets” or “Silver Proof Sets.” If you find one “in the wild,” it likely escaped from a broken set, which makes it a “circulated proof” and slightly lowers its value compared to a slabbed, graded specimen. Using the CoinKnow app allows you to track these specific silver variations easily.

The design itself commemorates the Battle of Sullivan’s Island, where Colonel William Moultrie’s regiment defended a half-finished palmetto log fort against the British Royal Navy. The reverse shows Sergeant William Jasper returning the regimental flag to the ramparts. This historical significance, combined with the 90% silver content, provides a solid floor for the coin’s value, as it will always be worth at least its weight in silver bullion.

Historical Context and America the Beautiful Series

The America the Beautiful Quarters program, which ran from 2010 to 2021, honored 56 national sites across the United States and its territories. The Fort Moultrie quarter was the 35th release in this series and the 5th for the year 2016. Because it commemorates a South Carolina landmark, it is particularly popular among collectors in the Southeast. To understand how it stacks up against others in the set, checking the market prices for 2016 series quarters can provide a broader perspective on its rarity.

Each year, the Mint produced different versions of each design: the standard P and D mint marks for circulation, and the S mint mark for collectors. The silver “S” version is distinct because it is made of 90% silver and 10% copper. This was one of the final years the Mint used the 90% silver alloy before switching to 99.9% fine silver in 2019. This makes the 2016-S a favorite for “old school” silver stackers who prefer the traditional alloy.

For the everyday American, it’s important to realize that the “S” mint mark is the key. While the P and D quarters are mostly worth 25 cents unless they are in perfect condition, the S-mint silver proof starts at a much higher price point. If you are unsure which one you have, the CoinKnow app can visually distinguish between the matte-like finish of a business strike and the mirror-like finish of a silver proof.

How to Identify a Silver Proof Quarter

Identification is the first step in determining if you are holding a regular quarter or a small treasure. First, look at the edge of the coin. A standard quarter has a copper-colored stripe visible on the reeded edge. A 90% silver quarter will have a solid silver/white edge with no trace of copper. This is the quickest way to verify the silver content without expensive equipment.

Second, check the Mint Mark. The 2016-S Fort Moultrie silver quarter prominently displays a small “S” on the obverse (the side with George Washington) to the right of the ribbon in his hair. If you see a “P” or “D,” it is a standard circulation coin and likely worth only its face value of 25 cents. For a more detailed breakdown of 2016-S silver quarter value information, you can consult professional pricing guides that track auction results.

Lastly, look at the finish. Proof coins are struck twice with specially polished dies. This results in “cameo” fields—the flat parts are mirror-like, while the raised details (Washington’s head and the soldier) have a frosted, matte appearance. If your coin looks exceptionally shiny and has an “S” mark, it is almost certainly a proof. If it’s silver-edged, it’s the highly desirable 90% silver version.

Value Factors for the 2016-S Fort Moultrie Silver Quarter

Several factors dictate the final price someone will pay for your coin. The most significant is the “Grade” or the physical condition. Since these were issued in protective plastic cases, many remain in “Gem Proof” (PR65) condition. However, if the coin has hairline scratches (often from being wiped with a cloth) or “milk spots” (white cloudy patches often found on silver coins), the value will take a hit.

Scarcity also plays a role. The 2016-S Silver Proof version had a limited mintage of approximately 600,000 to 700,000 units. While that sounds like a lot, compare it to the hundreds of millions of regular quarters made in Philadelphia and Denver that same year. For a busy person who doesn’t have time to browse auction catalogs, the CoinKnow app provides instant access to current market trends so you know if your coin’s value is rising or falling.

The presence of a “Deep Cameo” (DCAM) designation also adds value. This means the contrast between the frosted images and the mirror background is extreme. Professional grading services like PCGS or NGC will label these as “PR70DCAM.” A perfect PR70DCAM specimen can fetch much more than a standard PR69 coin because collectors of the America the Beautiful series strive for perfection in their “Registry Sets.”

Collecting the America the Beautiful Series

Many people who find a 2016-S Fort Moultrie quarter decide to start a collection rather than sell it. The ATB (America the Beautiful) series is the modern successor to the 50 State Quarters program. It is widely considered one of the most beautiful series the U.S. Mint has ever produced due to its landscape-oriented designs. Because there are five designs per year, it makes for a fun and manageable hobby.

If you are looking to buy or sell, keep in mind that the market for modern silver proofs is quite liquid. Coin shops and online auctions are always moving these items. However, individual sellers should be wary of selling to “pawn shops” which might only offer you “melt value” (the value of the silver metal). Currently, the silver content in a 90% quarter is roughly 0.18 ounces. If silver is at $25 an ounce, the melt value is about $4.50. But because this is a collectible Fort Moultrie coin, its numismatic value is roughly double that.

Always keep your silver coins in a PVC-free flip or their original mint capsule. Air and moisture can cause silver to “tarnish” or “tone.” While some collectors love rainbow-colored toning, most modern proof collectors prefer their silver coins to be white and brilliant. Protecting your investment ensures that when you ready to sell, you get the maximum value listed in your price guides.

Where to Sell Your 2016-S Fort Moultrie Silver Quarter

If you’ve decided to cash in, you have several options. For a single coin worth $15 to $50, eBay is often the best platform, as it reaches the widest audience of collectors. However, remember to factor in shipping costs and seller fees. If you have a full silver proof set from 2016, you might find a better deal at a local coin show where dealers are looking to fill inventory.

Before you sell, it is wise to get a second opinion. Using digital tools like the CoinKnow app can help you verify that you haven’t overlooked a rare error or a particularly high-grade strike. Collectors are often willing to pay a premium for “perfect” coins that have already been graded by a third party. If your coin is raw (ungraded), don’t expect the top-tier prices seen in auction records.

In summary, the 2016-S Fort Moultrie Silver Quarter is a beautiful piece of American history. Whether you keep it for its silver content, its historical significance, or its potential value growth, it remains a standout piece in the America the Beautiful quarter series.

FAQ

Q: Is every “S” mint quarter made of silver?

A: No. The San Francisco Mint produced both “Clad” proofs (copper-nickel) and “Silver” proofs. You must check the edge of the coin; if you see a copper stripe, it is clad. If the edge is solid silver, it is the silver version.

Q: Can I find a 2016-S silver quarter in my pocket change?

A: It is extremely rare but possible. These were only sold in sets to collectors. Occasionally, someone will spend a collection or a thief will spend stolen coins at face value. If you find one, it is considered a “proof in circulation.”

Q: How much silver is in a 2016-S Fort Moultrie quarter?

A: It contains 0.1808 troy ounces of pure silver. It is composed of 90% silver and 10% copper, which was the standard ratio for U.S. silver coins prior to 1965 and used for most silver proofs until 2019.

Q: Should I get my 2016-S silver quarter graded?

A: Generally, it is only worth grading if the coin appears to be “perfect” (PR70). Grading costs around $20-$40 per coin, so if the coin is only worth $15, you would lose money. Professional grading is best reserved for coins that will sell for over $60.