Silver coins have always been sought after by collectors and investors alike. What makes silver coins valuable is not just the silver content but also their rarity. The most valuable silver coins can be worth millions of dollars, but even those worth less can still generate a decent profit. Since the Coinage Act of 1965, which removed most silver from circulating coins, silver coins have become even harder to find. However, many silver coins are still available in the collectible market, and investing in them can help diversify your financial portfolio.
If you’re interested in buying silver coins to make a profit, here are four popular types that are worth considering.
90% ‘Junk’ Silver Coins
90% silver coins, also known as “junk silver,” were minted before 1965. These coins contain 90% silver and are called “junk” because they don’t have any collectible or numismatic value. This doesn’t mean they are worthless; in fact, their silver content makes them valuable. You can buy junk silver coins in bulk at lower prices, making them a good option for building a large silver collection without paying high premiums.
American Silver Eagle Coin
The American Silver Eagle (ASE) is one of the most well-known silver coins. First produced in 1986, ASE coins are made from 0.999 fine silver. These coins are popular with investors and are even eligible for inclusion in an IRA. There are three main types of ASEs: bullion ASEs (the cheapest), burnished ASEs (the rarest), and proof ASEs (the most expensive).
British Silver Britannia Coin
The British Silver Britannia is another popular silver coin for investors. Introduced in 1997, the coin’s silver purity was increased to 0.999 in 2013, making it even more valuable. The coin features Queen Elizabeth II, and recent editions now feature King Charles III. British Silver Britannia coins are highly recognized worldwide and are a solid investment option for silver buyers.
Table: Best Silver Coins for Investment
| Coin Type | Silver Purity | Year Introduced | Notable Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| 90% Junk Silver | 90% | Pre-1965 | Low cost, available in bulk |
| American Silver Eagle | 0.999 | 1986 | Eligible for IRA inclusion |
| British Silver Britannia | 0.999 | 1997 | Well-recognized, features King Charles III |
| Canadian Silver Maple Leaf | 0.9999 | 1988 | Extremely pure silver content |
Canadian Silver Maple Leaf Coins
The Canadian Silver Maple Leaf is one of the purest silver coins available, with a silver content of 0.9999 fine pure silver. First introduced in 1988 by the Royal Canadian Mint, these coins are favored by collectors and investors alike. Like the British Britannia, earlier versions feature Queen Elizabeth II, while newer editions now feature King Charles III.
Conclusion
Silver coins offer a great opportunity for profit and can serve as a hedge against economic uncertainty. While 90% junk silver coins offer an affordable entry point, American Silver Eagles, British Silver Britannias, and Canadian Silver Maple Leafs provide a more collectible and high-purity option for serious investors. With the right mix of coins, you can diversify your portfolio and potentially earn significant profits in the future.
FAQ’s
Why are these coins valuable for investment?
Silver coins are valuable for both their silver content and rarity, making them good investment options.
What is ‘junk silver,’ and why is it called that?
Junk silver refers to 90% silver coins that have no collectible value but are still valuable for their silver content.
Which silver coin has the highest purity?
The Canadian Silver Maple Leaf has the highest purity at 0.9999 fine pure silver.