Silver Coin Prices
Silver coins are much more affordable and versatile than their gold counterparts. Silver coin prices are calculated using the spot price as a basis, plus a premium that varies depending on the purity, date and condition of the coin. The most common coins available to investors are junk 90% silver bags, pre-1933 silver dollars and modern minted silver coins.
Silver dollars minted prior to the 1933 restrictions on owning bullion tend to be the most expensive silver coins available, due mainly to their scarcity and numismatic value. They are the last remnants of what the world knew as the gold standard, a time when people used real gold and silver for economic transactions.
Junk silver bags are merely a collection of used dimes, quarters and half dollars from the period spanning from 1933 to 1965. They tend to be heavily worn and thus are generally the most economical way to invest in silver. Premiums on junk silver are very low compared to other silver coins.
Finally, modern silver bullion coins include the ever-popular American Eagles and Canadian Maples. These coins have a relatively short history and thus have little numismatic value. On the other hand, they are very popular investments due to their uniformity and easily recognized authenticity. Modern silver bullion can be had at very reasonable prices in comparison with pre-1933 numismatics, and are by far the first choice for many silver investors.
