Assess the type and quantity of silver bullion you own. Bullion forms include 1-ounce U.S. Mint American Eagle coins, privately minted Silver Eagle coins, and 100- and 10-ounce bars, called ingots. Canada and Mexico manufacture various forms of bullion, including the popular Canadian Maple Leaf coin. Additionally, dealers and individuals trade for their silver value dimes, quarters and half-dollars minted in the U.S. before 1965. Calculate the total weight of the bullion you wish to sell.
Determine the quality of your bullion collection in terms of purity and condition. Both U.S. Mint and privately minted silver coins contain high-purity 99.9 percent silver. Pre-1965 circulated coins contain 90 percent silver. The U.S. Mint also manufactures a limited number of American Eagle proof coins, each of which comes with a protective case and certificate of authenticity. Scratches, tarnishing and other damage decreases the value of silver bullion. Coins and ingots -- which no one has touched -- in protective coverings fetch the highest selling price.
Research current market prices for silver on Internet sites for precious metal investing. Sites list exchange rates by the ounce, with slightly different rates for selling versus buying. Before approaching a silver buyer, have a good idea of the value of your silver to ensure you get a fair price.
Choose a reputable buyer for your bullion. Get a quote from several different buyers, especially when selling large quantities. While many precious metal exchanges offer appraisals and sale through the mail, some collectors prefer direct, in-person sales. Exchanges that buy silver bullion in the San Francisco Bay area include Robert R. Johnson in Civic Center; San Francisco Gold Buyer in West Portal Village; Don's Village Coins in Sunset; and Numis International in Millbrae.
Present the quantity of silver you want to sell. Merchants will offer you a buying price slightly below what they sell bullion for. Most coin and precious metal exchanges offer immediate payment in check or cash.
