When coins have no particular value to collectors, they are called junk. But that’s not necessarily a disparagement, especially when it applies to silver buyers interested in rare coins. Here’s what you need to know about junk silver.

A Look at Junk Silver

Silver coins produced before 1965 are often referred to as “junk silver” because they’re only partially composed of the precious metal. While they aren’t valuable to rare coin collectors, they do appeal to investors who value the content of silver they contain. During production in the pre-1965 era, a bag of silver coins contained at least 715 ounces of silver. Today, that value is applied as its current market rate and used in evaluating investments.  

Why Purchase It

The beauty of junk silver is that it’s easy to meltdown. At that point, it can be resold based on its market rate. Since there is only a limited amount of pre-1965 coins with 90% silver content left in the world, it renders them valuable even if they aren’t as typical rare coins. Silver costs tend to remain stable, so you don’t have to make a particularly enormous initial investment to reap the rewards.

Options to Consider   

Always make sure that what you’re purchasing is actual junk silver and not merely an old silver coin. It should appear considerably old and worn, but likely won’t have any visible copper marks along the sides. Some of the most common options are Morgan and Peace dollars, Kennedy half dollars, Jefferson Wartime nickels, and Standing Liberty and Washington quarters.
 

Are you a coin collector interested in browsing an eclectic selection? Visit R & S Rare Coins in Cabool, MO. Proudly serving locals throughout Texas County, they offer a wide range of rare coins that will appeal to metal enthusiasts alike. In addition to coins, they also specialize in emergency preparedness products, including safes and emergency food. Visit them online for information, or call (417) 962-5213 today.