Bullion in Disguise: How Junk Silver Coins Can Be a Stealthy Way to Invest in Precious Metals
When it comes to investing in precious metals, many investors turn to coins and bars that are stamped with a high fineness and purity, such as gold and silver bullion. However, there’s another way to invest in precious metals that’s often overlooked: junk silver coins. These coins may not be as flashy as their high-end counterparts, but they can be a stealthy and affordable way to add silver to your portfolio.
What are Junk Silver Coins?
Junk silver coins are coins that are made of 90% silver, but are no longer considered legal tender or are no longer in circulation. They’re often older coins that were minted before the 1960s, when the US government stopped producing coins with high silver content. Junk silver coins can include coins like the Walking Liberty half dollar, the Franklin half dollar, and the Kennedy half dollar, among others.
Why Invest in Junk Silver Coins?
There are several reasons why junk silver coins can be a great way to invest in precious metals:
- Affordability: Junk silver coins are often much cheaper than high-end silver coins or bullion bars, making them more accessible to new investors.
- High Silver Content: Junk silver coins are made of 90% silver, which is a much higher percentage than many modern coins.
- Collectibility: Many junk silver coins are collectible and can appreciate in value over time, making them a great way to diversify your portfolio.
- Stealthy: Because junk silver coins are no longer in circulation, they’re often overlooked by thieves and burglars, making them a great way to store your precious metals without drawing attention to yourself.
- Diversification: Junk silver coins can be a great way to diversify your precious metal portfolio, as they’re not as well-known as some other coins and bars.
How to Buy and Store Junk Silver Coins
If you’re interested in investing in junk silver coins, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Buy from a Reputable Dealer: Make sure to buy from a reputable dealer who is a member of a professional numismatic organization, such as the Professional Numismatists Guild (PNG).
- Check the Coin’s Condition: Junk silver coins can be in a variety of conditions, from brilliant uncirculated to heavily worn. Make sure to check the coin’s condition before buying.
- Store Your Coins Safely: Because junk silver coins are not as well-known as some other coins and bars, they can be a great way to store your precious metals without drawing attention to yourself. Consider storing your coins in a safe or a secure location.
Conclusion
Junk silver coins may not be as flashy as some other precious metal investments, but they can be a great way to add silver to your portfolio in a stealthy and affordable way. With their high silver content, collectibility, and affordability, junk silver coins are definitely worth considering for investors of all levels. So next time you’re thinking about investing in precious metals, don’t overlook the humble junk silver coin.
While the “stealth” aspect is interesting, I’d argue the real advantage of junk silver is its inherent link to the historical value of the US dollar – a tangible connection to a monetary system predating fiat currency, which some find appealing.
I appreciate the emphasis on the “stealth” aspect of junk silver. It’s a refreshing perspective compared to the usual emphasis on gold’s flashiness. For those concerned about security, this is a compelling argument.