The recent surge in gold prices above $2,500 has highlighted a stark contrast with silver, which has struggled to keep pace.
However, this dynamic might change due to a technological development from Samsung that could significantly increase silver demand.
According to retired financial analyst Kevin Bambrough post on X.com, Samsung’s new solid-state (SS) battery technology, which incorporates a silver-carbon (Ag-C) composite layer in its anode, could be a game-changer for the silver market, particularly as demand for electric vehicles (EVs) grows.
This innovation enhances battery performance, offering a 600-mile range, 20-year lifespan, and a rapid 9-minute charge time.
Each EV battery pack, containing around 200 cells, could require an estimated 1 kilo of silver each. The solid state battery is expected to have offer a 20 year life span, a range of up to 600 miles and can be charged in as little as nine minutes. Has a 20 year life span
If just 20% of global vehicle production (approximately 16 million EVs) were to adopt these batteries, it could increase annual silver demand by 16,000 metric tons, a substantial portion of the current global production of about 25,000 metric tons.
The potential increase in silver demand from the automotive sector, combined with existing demand from the solar industry, suggests a bullish outlook for silver prices. Bambrough even speculates that price of silver could reach its inflation-adjusted high of $200/oz within the next 10-15 years.
Currently, solid-state batteries are more expensive to manufacture than traditional lithium-ion batteries, potentially limiting their immediate adoption to higher-end vehicles like Lexus.
The roll-out of solid-state batteries will require significant investment in ultra-fast charging infrastructure, which could slow the adoption rate.
The demand for metals and alloys used in EV charging stations is also expected to grow, particularly for materials like stainless steel, aluminum, copper, nickel, and titanium.
This development underscores the potential for significant shifts in the silver market driven by technological advancements in the automotive industry, particularly with the growing focus on electric vehicles. As the market adapts to these innovations, silver may see increased demand, leading to potential price increases in the coming years.
The American quarter dollar coin, commonly referred to as the “quarter,” has been a cornerstone of U.S. currency since its initial release in 1796.
With a face value of 25 cents, or one-quarter of a dollar, the quarter has undergone several transformations in its material composition while retaining its iconic status in U.S. coinage.
Though the purchasing power of a quarter has dramatically declined it remains an essential piece of everyday transactions and a popular collector’s item.
From the inception of the quarter in 1796 until 1964, these coins were minted with a composition of 90% silver and 10% copper. This alloy was a longstanding standard for U.S. silver coinage, tracing its origins back to European traditions of using precious metals in currency. The use of silver gave these coins intrinsic value beyond their face denomination, making them both practical for trade and desirable for their precious metal content.
In 1965, the US Mint abandoned using silver for circulating coins due to rising silver prices and began issuing modern clad quarters that are still in use today.
Early American Quarters
The designs of the quarter have evolved over the years. Starting with the Draped Bust Quarter 1796, followed by the Capped Bust and Seated Liberty Designs were the mainstays of the 19th century.
1796 – Draped Bust Quarter: The first quarter was minted in 1796, featuring the Draped Bust design by Robert Scot. This design depicted Liberty with flowing hair and a draped bust on the obverse and an eagle surrounded by a wreath on the reverse.
1804-1838 – Capped Bust Quarter: Following the Draped Bust design, the Capped Bust quarter was introduced. Designed by John Reich, this coin featured Liberty wearing a cap on the obverse and a simplified eagle on the reverse.
1838-1891 – Seated Liberty Quarter: The Seated Liberty design by Christian Gobrecht was used from 1838 to 1891. This design showed Liberty seated on a rock, holding a shield and a pole with a cap on the obverse, and an eagle with a shield on the reverse.
These early American quarters were minted in much lower quantities than today, making them highly sought after by collectors. Even worn and circulated Draped Bust quarters from the early 1800s can be worth $600 to $4,000 depending on the condition and year.
20th Century Quarters
1892-1916 – Barber Quarter: The Barber quarter, designed by Charles E. Barber, was in circulation from 1892 to 1916. This design featured Liberty with a laurel wreath on the obverse and a heraldic eagle on the reverse.
Even though Barber quarters are sometimes mixed with junk silver, these coins are prized by collectors. The value of common date Barber quarters can range from $10 to $15 in good condition up to around $100 in extra fine condition. Higher grades and uncirculated Barber quarters can command thousands at auction. Recently, a 1913-S Barber Quarter in Good (G4) condition realized over $2,500 at a Heritage Auctions event.
1916-1930 – Standing Liberty Quarter: Introduced in 1916, the Standing Liberty quarter was designed by Hermon A. MacNeil. It depicted Liberty standing with a shield and an olive branch on the obverse and an eagle in flight on the reverse.
The value of an early Standing Liberty quarter in circulated but good condition with a fully visible date can vary significantly based on the specific year and mint mark. The Type 1 design which showed bare breasts on the obverse, was initially shunned by the public. These coins were issued only in 1916 and early 1917 before being replaced with the Type 2 design. Type 1 Standing Liberty quarters in good condition are much rarer and in good condition are worth up to $300, while uncirculated coins typically sell for thousands at auction.
1932-Present – Washington Quarter: The Washington quarter was first issued in 1932 to commemorate the 200th birthday of George Washington. Designed by John Flanagan, this coin features a profile of Washington on the obverse and an eagle with outstretched wings on the reverse. All Washington quarters minted before 1965 are made from 90% silver and is valued based on the intrinsic value of the metal.
The current circulating coin is a derivative of Flanagan’s original design, maintaining the iconic image of Washington.
State Quarters Program and America The Beautiful Quarters
The U.S. Mint has used the quarter as a canvas for commemorative coin programs, most notably the State Quarters Program (1999-2008), which featured unique designs for each of the 50 states.
In more recent years, the Mint has continued to use quarters for other commemorative series, including the America the Beautiful Quarters series, highlighting national parks and other significant U.S. landmarks.
The programs produced billions of quarters, but within these mintages, there are notable errors and rarities that can be extremely valuable that you can look for in your change.
These error coins and varieties are often worth significantly more than their face value, making them important finds for numismatists. Below are some of the most notable and valuable error coins from both programs.
1999 Delaware Spitting Horse Error
Error Type: Die Crack
Value: $20 to over $100
This error appears as a die crack extending from the horse’s mouth on the reverse, making it look like the horse is “spitting.” Depending on the severity of the die crack, these errors can range from $20 to over $100, with some high-grade examples fetching even more.
2004 Wisconsin Extra Leaf High and Low Errors
Error Type: Die Gouge
Value: $100 to $1,500+
On the reverse of some 2004 Wisconsin quarters, there is an extra leaf on the corn stalk. There are two varieties: the “High Leaf” and the “Low Leaf.” These varieties occurred due to a die gouge. The “Extra Leaf” varieties are highly sought after and can sell for between $100 to $1,500 or more, depending on condition and grade.
1999 Georgia State Quarter Clad Layer Missing
Error Type: Missing Clad Layer
Value: $200 to $1,000
Some Georgia state quarters were struck without the outer copper-nickel clad layer, revealing the copper core beneath. This type of error significantly affects the coin’s appearance, with the quarter having a copper color. Missing clad layer errors can be worth between $200 and $1,000 depending on the severity and condition of the coin.
2020-W American Samoa Bat Quarter
Error Type: Doubled Die
Value: $50 to $200
Some of the West Point-minted 2020 American Samoa “Bat” quarters feature doubling in the letters and designs on the reverse. These quarters can range from $50 to $200, depending on the grade and extent of the doubling.
More Quarters Worth Money
1. 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter
Mint Mark: No mint mark; minted in Philadelphia.
Value: In mint state (MS) condition, it can fetch prices upwards of $25,000 to $100,000 or more, depending on the grade.
The 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter is the first year of issue for the Standing Liberty series and had a very low mintage of only 52,000 coins.
Designed by Hermon A. MacNeil, the 1916 quarter features Lady Liberty standing in a flowing gown with a shield and an olive branch.
Due to its rarity and historical significance, even lower-grade examples can fetch high prices, and mint-state specimens are extremely valuable, often selling for thousands of dollars at auction.
2. 1918/7-S Standing Liberty Quarter
Mint Mark: “S” mint mark for San Francisco.
Value: In high grades, this coin can be worth $15,000 to over $80,000.
The 1918/7-S Standing Liberty Quarter is a notable and rare error coin, featuring a prominent overdate where a “7” is struck over the original “8” in the coin’s date.
This variety was minted at the San Francisco Mint and is highly coveted by collectors due to its scarcity. In higher grades, especially uncirculated, this coin can fetch prices well into the tens of thousands of dollars.
It’s one of the most famous overdate errors in U.S. numismatics and a key date in the Standing Liberty Quarter series.
3. 1927-S Standing Liberty Quarter
Mint Mark: “S” mint mark for San Francisco.
Value: In high grades, this coin can range from $2,500 to over $30,000.
With a mintage of just over 396,000, the 1927-S Standing Liberty Quarter stands out as one of the key dates in the series.
In circulated conditions, it can be moderately valuable, but in uncirculated or high-grade conditions, its value can rise significantly, often reaching into the thousands of dollars due to its rarity and demand among collectors.
This coin is a must have for collectors aiming to complete a full set of Standing Liberty Quarters.
4. 1932-D Washington Quarter
Details: The first year of issue for the Washington quarter, designed by John Flanagan. The Denver mint had a relatively low mintage of 436,800 coins.
Mint Mark: “D” mint mark for Denver.
Value: High-grade examples can be worth between $5,000 and $30,000.
5. 1932-S Washington Quarter
Details: Another key date in the Washington quarter series with a low mintage of 408,000 coins.
Mint Mark: “S” mint mark for San Francisco.
Value: High-grade coins can range from $5,000 to $25,000.
6. 1950-D/S Washington Quarter
Details: This is a popular over mint mark variety where a “D” was stamped over an “S.”
Mint Mark: “D” over “S” for Denver.
Value: In mint state condition, it can be worth several hundred to a few thousand dollars.
7. 1964-D Washington Quarter
Details: This coin is notable for the doubled die obverse variety, where the date and lettering are doubled.
Mint Mark: “D” mint mark for Denver.
Value: High-grade examples can fetch prices in the range of several hundred to a few thousand dollars, depending on the degree of doubling.
Factors Affecting Value
Condition (Grade): Coins in mint state (MS) condition with no wear are generally more valuable. Coins are graded on a scale from 1 to 70, with higher numbers indicating better condition.
Rarity: Low mintage numbers or coins with unique features, such as errors or varieties, tend to be more valuable.
Historical Significance: Coins from significant years or first-year issues can be more sought after.
Demand: Popularity among collectors can drive up the value of certain coins.
Conclusion
These quarter dollar coins minted since 1900 are some of the most valuable due to their rarity, condition, and historical significance. Collectors and investors prize them for their unique characteristics and the stories they represent in the history of American coinage. If you own any of these coins, it is advisable to have them graded by a professional grading service to determine their condition and maximize their potential value.
MKS PAMP Group’s decision to repurpose an aviation hangar in Florida for a silver mint reflects a strategic move to capitalize on robust investment demand in North America.
By enhancing its production capacity in the U.S., MKS PAMP Group is positioning itself to better serve the North American market.
Production Capacity and Product Offerings
The new Florida facility can produce over 20 million troy ounces of silver products annually, including 1-ounce silver rounds and 10-ounce bars. These privately minted, coin-shaped pieces of silver cater to both investment and industrial demands. The ability to produce such a significant quantity of silver products positions MKS PAMP Group to meet the ongoing demand in the U.S. and potentially the Middle East, where their products have also performed well.
Global Silver Market Trends
Investment Demand Shifts
The global investment market for silver bars and coins experienced notable shifts in 2023, with significant declines in Germany and India. The slump in these major markets can be attributed to policy changes and market dynamics:
Germany: Sales collapsed by 73% in 2023 following an increase in the Value Added Tax (VAT) on some silver products.
India: Recorded a 38% decrease in demand due to various economic factors.
Despite these declines, the U.S. market remained relatively resilient, with only a 13% decrease in demand. This resilience is crucial for mints and refiners seeking stable outlets for their products.
Price Movements
Spot silver prices have risen by 27% in 2024, reaching an 11-year high on May 20. This increase is part of a broader rally in precious metals, including gold and copper. While global physical investment in silver bars and coins is expected to fall further after a 28% slump in 2023, the U.S. market continues to provide a significant outlet for investment products.
Strategic Implications
Strengthening Market Presence
By expanding its production capabilities in Florida, MKS PAMP Group is strengthening its market presence in a key region. This move allows the company to better serve North American investors who have shown sustained interest in PAMP Suisse silver products. Additionally, the ability to produce large quantities of silver rounds and bars enhances the group’s ability to meet both current and future demand.
Adapting to Market Conditions
The shift in global investment demand highlights the importance of adapting to market conditions. MKS PAMP Group’s expansion into Florida demonstrates a proactive approach to addressing changes in regional demand patterns. By focusing on the U.S. market, which remains historically high in terms of silver investment demand, the group can mitigate the impacts of declines in other markets.
Conclusion
MKS PAMP Group’s expansion into Florida reflects a strategic response to the evolving dynamics of the global silver market. By increasing production capacity in North America, the group is well-positioned to capitalize on strong investment demand in the U.S. and other resilient markets. This move not only strengthens their market presence but also ensures they can continue to provide investment-grade silver products to investors amid shifting global trends.
The Perth Mint is best known for its high-quality bullion coins, innovative minting techniques, historic and commemorative coin production. Its iconic coin series, such as the Australian Kangaroo, Koala, and Kookaburra make it a favorite among investors and collectors.
For many, the first thing that comes to mind when thinking about the Perth Mint is the popular silver coin series’, such as the Koala and the Kookaburra, each featuring new designs each year.
All of the 2024 mintage year coins contain a new obverse design that was created by Dan Thorne, Royal Mint illustrator and coin designer. The design features the official Commonwealth Effigy of King Charles III that is featured on all newly minted Australian legal tender coins.
Koala Silver Coin
The Koala Silver coin from the Perth Mint is a highly sought-after bullion coin due to its annually changing designs and limited mintage.
First issued in 2007, since then, it has become a favorite among collectors and investors due to its annual design changes and limited mintage. Collectors and investors alike appreciate the variety and beauty of the designs.
The 2024 1 oz Koala Silver Coin shows the lovable marsupial in a gum tree that was designed by artist Ing Ing Jong. Inscriptions are included for the weight, purity, year-date of minting and the P hallmark for the Perth Mint.
Due to the limited mintage and demand from collectors, some investors buy sleeves of 20 coins during the initial offering and hold on to them for a few years for premiums to rise.
In addition to the 1 oz silver coin, the Koala Series is also available as a 1 kilo Koala Silver Coin. The 1 oz Koala has an annual mintage of 300,000 coins.
Kookaburra Silver Coin
First issued in 1990, the Australian Kookaburra coin features a new design each year depicting the kookaburra, another iconic Australian bird.
The 2024 issue is the 34th coin in the series and is the first to feature a new portrait of King Charles III on the obverse.
The 2024 1 oz Kookaburra Silver Coin features the dynamic bird in flight on the reverse, while carrying a small snake in its talons with the moon in the background. This side includes the year-date of minting, the weight, purity and a special privy mark to commemorate the 125th anniversary of the mint.
The Kookaburra series is available in various weight denominations, each with its owned declared mintage limits.
The 1 oz silver coin has an annual mintage of 500,000 coins
The 1 kilo Kookaburra Silver Coin has an unlimited annual mintage
While larger sizes have an undeclared mintage amount, the coins are minted on demand from investors and collectors throughout the year.
Swan Silver Coin
The Swan Silver Coin is a prestigious and sought-after bullion coin series produced by the Perth Mint. Known for its limited mintage, exceptional quality, and exquisite design, the Swan series has garnered significant attention from collectors and investors since its inception.
The Perth Mint first issued the Swan Silver Coin in 2017. Since its debut, it has become one of the mint’s flagship series, celebrated by collectors for its elegant and detailed depiction of the swan, a bird with strong historical connection to Australia.
Each year, the Swan Silver Coin features a new design, showcasing the swan in various artistic representations.
The reverse of the 2024 1 oz Swan Silver Coin features a depiction of an elegant swan splashing down into the water with the moon above the horizon in the background, capturing the natural beauty and deftness of this iconic bird. Surrounding the swan includes inscriptions that read “2024 1 OZ 9999 AUSTRALIAN” and “SILVER SWAN” with an elegance that the Perth Mint is renowned for.
The Swan Silver Coin is limited to just 25,000 pieces each year.
2024 125th Anniversary 1 oz Silver Coin
To celebrate the 125th Anniversary of their founding, the Perth Mint has issued a special 1 oz silver coin to commemorate the event.
The 2024 1 oz 125th Anniversary Silver Coin features three of the mints favorite animals that are indigenous to Australia, the kangaroo, koala, and the kookaburra.
The reverse design shows a bouncing kangaroo in the center with a tree in the background. A koala bear is shown to the left, while a kookaburra is shown on the right. Below is a banner that reads “1899 The Perth Mint 2024.”
The 125th Anniversary Silver coin has a minted limited to only 125,000 coins worldwide and is close to selling out at the mint.
Kangaroo Silver Coin
The silver version of the Kangaroo series was first issued in 2016 and is well-known for its depiction of the iconic red kangaroo. This annual issues has had several design improvements over the years to help improve security with anti-counterfeiting features.
The coin features the red kangaroo in stride on the reverse, set against a stylized sunburst background.
Each coin includes a tiny, micro-laser engraved letter “A” in the reverse design that is visible only under magnification.
The coin’s background incorporates precisely engraved fine radial lines that create a complex pattern that is challenging to reproduce.
The Kangaroo Series is minted based on demand from investors with no declared mintage.
The Silver Kangaroo often has a lower premium over the spot price of silver compared to other sovereign investment coins.
When taking into account the lower premiums, security features and the reputation of the Perth Mint, the Kangaroo Silver coin is superior to other sovereign investment coins.
As legal tender, the coin is considered money throughout Australia. Each coin is minted from .9999 fine silver, which is refined by the Perth Mint.
The Perth Lunar Series is now in its third iteration. The series renowned for the beautiful designs that celebrate the animals of the 12 year Chinese Zodiac cycle. The series began its first cycle in 1996 and continued with the Lunar II series in 2008.
The 2024 1 oz Lunar Silver Coin features a wood dragon on the reverse, a revered symbol in Chinese culture. The dragon is shown chasing the pearl of wisdom.
A Monster Box is the term used in the precious metals industry for the mint-sealed container that holds 500 one-ounce silver bullion coins. Inside, the coins are further organized into individual tubes holding either 20 or 25 coins, depending on the country of origin.
The most common type investors seek is the American Silver Eagle Monster Box. However, other countries like Canada, South Africa, Great Britain and Austria also offer their own versions with their respective silver coins.
Buying monster boxes can be a practical choice for investors who prefer to buy in bulk and are serious about silver exposure. They provide a bulk alternative to purchasing bullion coins one at a time, often resulting in a lower overall premium cost, making them one of the best allocations for investors who prefer mint fresh BU coins.
As a tangible asset, 1 oz Silver coins can be easily liquidated anywhere in the world, making them a relevant resource in times of economic uncertainty. Prices can vary greatly depending on the mint and investor demand.
These boxes are easily stored, with each monster box taking up a similar amount of space as a typical shoe box. As a tangible asset, many investors firmly believe that silver will appreciate in value over time.
American Eagle Silver Monster Box
An American Silver Eagle monster box holds 500 one-ounce 1 oz Silver Eagle coins. These coins are minted by the United States Mint and are among the most popular silver bullion coins in the world. The box itself is made of durable green plastic and is sealed with straps, ensuring the coins inside remain in pristine condition. Each monster box contains 25 tubes, each holding 20 coins.
Many online bullion dealers offer mint-sealed monster boxes that are guaranteed to contain 500 Silver Eagles of the same production date in BU condition, adding a layer of authenticity and quality assurance.
Some dealers may also have random year monster boxes of American Eagles from previous years at a discount, giving investors an option for lower premiums.
Canadian Silver Maple Leaf Monster Box
A Canadian Silver Maple Leaf Monster Box holds 500 one-ounce Canadian Silver Maple Leaf coins. These coins are minted by the Royal Canadian Mint and are among the most pure silver bullion coins in the world, with a .9999 fineness.
The box itself is made of rigid yellow plastic and is sealed with straps, ensuring the coins inside remain in pristine condition. The Maple Leaf monster box contains 20 tubes, each holding 25 coins.
Investors can often find Maple Leaf Monster Boxes at a lower price when compared to those from other mints, making them a popular choice.
South Africa Krugerrand Monster Box
A South African Krugerrand Monster Box holds 500 one-ounce South African 1 oz Silver Krugerrand coins. These coins are minted by the South African Mint and feature the same design as the gold Krugerrand but are made of silver.
The box itself is made of hard black plastic, ensuring the coins inside remain in pristine condition. Each monster box contains 20 tubes, each holding 25 coins.
Dealer premiums on 1 oz Silver Krugerrand coins are often lower than those from other government mints, which can provide investors with significant savings.
Australia Kangaroo Silver Mini Monster Box
An Australian Silver Kangaroo Mini Monster Box from Perth Mint in Australia allows investors to buy bulk quantity of Australian Kangaroo 1 oz silver coins. These coins are recognized for their exquisite design and high purity. The mini monster box contains 250 1 oz coins, which are divided into 10 tubes of 25 coins each. The box is made of durable blue plastic and is sealed by the mint to protect the coins inside during transport and storage. The smaller, more compact size of the Kangaroo Monster Box allows it to fit into a some safety deposit box, making it convenient for investors to store and secure their silver bullion.
Introduced in 2019, the series highlights the “Big Five” animals—a term that originally referred to the five most dangerous animals to hunt on foot. These animals are the lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhinoceros.
The choice of the Big Five reflects the country’s focus on wildlife conservation while highlighting the importance of wildlife tourism to South Africa’s economy and the country’s rich natural heritage. These animals are not only symbols of Africa’s biodiversity but also of conservation efforts aimed at protecting these species from threats such as poaching and habitat loss.
One of the unique aspects of these coins is their two-in-one design. The designs capture these majestic creatures with intense expressions, showcasing the intricate details such as the fur texture, the contours of the face, and even the reflections in the animals’ eyes, bringing each portrait to life.
When two coins are placed next to each other, a complete close-up portrait of the animal’s face is formed. This design feature encourages the acquisition of pairs of coins for a complete set. Each coin is released with a limited mintage of just 15,000 coins and is struck from 1 ounce of .999 fine silver.
The latest release include coins featuring the Leopard and the Cape Buffalo.
2023 Big Five Leopard Silver Coin
Known for its elusive nature and striking appearance, the South African Leopard is found throughout sub-Saharan Africa. The leopard is one of the most admired and respected wild animals in Africa, featuring prominently in both cultural folklore and wildlife conservation.
The obverse of 2023 1 oz South African Big Five Leopard Silver Coin shows the close-up detailed face of a leopard, with its head tilted slightly to the side, with the South African Coat of Arms in the center along the bottom. The reverse shows two halves of a leopard’s face with a circular feature in the center that contains the weight, purity and legal tender face value.
The leopard is a master of stealth and an apex predator that is famous for its beautifully marked coat, dotted with black rosettes and spots which provide camouflage in its natural environment.
Much of the leopard conservation effort hinges on protecting sanctuaries such as Kruger National Park and the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park where leopards can roam freely and safely.
2023 Big Five Buffalo Silver Coin
Cape buffalos are large, robust animals, with mature males weighing up to 2,000 pounds or 900 kilograms. They are characterized by their impressive horns, which have fused bases forming a continuous bone shield referred to as a “boss,” making them one of the most recognizable features of these animals.
The obverse of 2023 1 oz South African Big Five Buffalo Silver Coin shows a close-up side profile of the head of a buffalo. The words “South Africa” and “Big Five 2023,” as well as the coat of arms is included.
The reverse side depicts two halves of the face of a buffalo with a circular feature in the center that contains the weight, purity and legal tender face value.
South Africa buffalo are highly social creatures and their large herds often subdivided into smaller groups for females with calves, bachelor groups for males, and mixed sex groups.
Poaching remains a threat due to the value of the horns and meat. Much of the conservation efforts for Cape buffalos involves maintaining and securing protected areas such as the Kruger National Park and private game reserves are crucial sanctuaries where these animals can roam freely and safely.
The Rand Refinery
The Rand Refinery, established in 1920, is one of the largest and most famous gold refineries in the world. It is located in Germiston, South Africa, and was founded by the Transvaal Chamber of Mines to refine all of the gold produced by South Africa’s gold mines.
The refinery is famous for producing the gold Krugerrand, but also provides a range of products and services, from gold bullion bars and coins to value-added services like smelting and refining.
South Africa is rich in a variety of minerals including gold, diamonds, coal, platinum and mining has been a pivotal aspect of South Africa’s economy since the Witwatersrand gold rush of 1886.
Today, South Africa remains a major mining hub and the sector continues to be a vital part of South Africa’s economy and a major employer.
In a world of ever-changing economic landscapes, investors often seek ways to protect and grow their wealth. One such asset class that has been a cornerstone of wealth preservation for centuries is precious metals, with investment grade silver coins being a popular choice due to affordability and potential for appreciation.
Investment grade silver coins are high-quality, government-minted coins that contain a specified amount of pure silver. These coins are recognized for their silver content, purity, and legal tender status, making them a reliable store of value. Some popular examples of investment grade silver coins include the American Silver Eagle, Canadian Silver Maple Leaf, and the Austrian Silver Philharmonic.
As the purchasing power of fiat currencies erodes, the value of silver can help maintain purchasing power due to its historical role as a hedge against inflation.
For example, the American Silver Eagle was first issued in 1986 when the average silver price was $5.87 per ounce and the average gas price was around 90 cents a gallon. One ounce of silver was roughly the equivalent to 6.5 gallons of gasoline.
By comparison, in 2023 the average silver price was $23.40 per ounce, while the average price of gas was $3.52 per gallon. Which makes one ounce of silver roughly the equivalent of 6.65 gallons of gas.
Unlike stocks, bonds, or cryptocurrencies, investment grade silver coins are physical assets that can be held and stored securely. This tangibility provides a sense of security and control over one’s investments.
While each government mint has its own specifications, bullion investment coins are typically minted with 1 troy ounce of silver of .999 or .9999 fine silver. Though some mints offer coins in both larger and smaller denominations to accommodate the needs of different types of investors.
US Mint American Silver Eagles
The American Silver Eagle is the only investment-grade bullion coin issued by the US Mint. The 1 oz Silver Eagle was introduced as a trusted and reliable store of value of value and wealth in 1986.
Silver Eagles are made of .999 fine silver and carry a legal tender face value of $1. As legal tender, the coins are backed by the U.S. government and are recognized and traded worldwide.
During the 2008 financial crisis and Great Recession, the demand for American Silver Eagle coins surged significantly. In 2008, the U.S. Mint sold 20,583,000 bullion coins, a massive increase from the previous year and nearly doubling the prior record.
This spike in demand was a direct response to the economic uncertainty and the sharp increase in the price of silver at that time. The popularity of these coins among investors as a store of value and a hedge against inflation was evident during this period.
Current year 2024 Silver Eagles are minted based on investor demand and confirmed orders from Authorized Purchasers. Already during the first four months of the year, the US Mint sold more than 10 million American Silver Eagle coins. Some of this can easily be attributed to the availability of American Silver Eagle Tubes at major retailers like Costco, which has helped to increase awareness and demand amongst a larger pool of investors.
Secondary market silver coins can often be a way for investors to find lower premiums. Secondary market Silver Eagles were bought in previous years and have been previous liquidated by selling to a bullion dealer or broker. These coins are then resold by dealers at a reduced premium compared to current year coins.
Royal Canadian Mint Silver Coins
The Canadian Silver Maple Leaf is one of the purest silver coins on the market, with a purity of .9999 fine silver.
The reverse of the coin features the Sugar Maple Leaf design, a national symbol of Canada. The obverse of current coins shows a portrait of King Charles. Secondary market Maple Leaf 1 oz Silver Coins will most often be from previous years that feature one of various portraits of Queen Elizabeth.
The Royal Canadian Mint incorporates several advanced anti-counterfeiting measures in the design of the coin, making it one of the most secure bullion coins in the world. These measures include:
Radial Lines: The coin features a unique background of light-refracting radial lines that create a distinctive sparkle, making it difficult to replicate and also makes it appealing from an aesthetic standpoint.
Micro-Engraved Maple Leaf: A micro-engraved textured maple leaf, which is visible under magnification, is added to the coin. This feature is also used to mark the coin’s year of issue.
Bullion DNA Technology: The Royal Canadian Mint employs its proprietary Bullion DNA anti-counterfeiting technology, which involves laser micro-engraving a small maple leaf on the coin’s surface. Each mark contains an encrypted code unique to each coin, which can be authenticated through a secure database.
MINTSHIELD™ Surface Protection: This technology reduces the occurrence of white spot discoloration on the coin’s surface, ensuring the coin retains its visual appeal over time.
Serrated Edges: The coin features serrated edges, which not only enhance its aesthetic appeal but also make it harder to counterfeit.
Silver Maple Leaf coins are available only in a 1 troy ounce denomination. These coins are highly liquid and widely traded in the secondary market like other bullion investment coins. Secondary market Maple Leafs can have coins from previous years, including those that may have been issued prior to the RCM solving the milk spot issues. However, these coins are often available at a even deeper discount from those looking for the lowest dollar-cost average.
Austrian Mint Philharmonic Silver Coins
Austrian Silver Philharmonic coins are an excellent, lower premium alternative to American Silver Eagles. They are minted with a purity of .999 fine silver, making them a high-quality option.
One significant aspect of the Philharmonic Silver coins is their lower premium over spot price compared to some other bullion coins. This makes them a more cost-effective choice for those looking to invest in physical silver.
Despite this lower premium, the coins are still widely recognized in the global market, especially in European markets, due to their association with the renowned Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra and the Austrian Mint’s reputation for quality.
The coins celebrate the rich cultural heritage of Austria, featuring the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra on the coin’s obverse and the Great Organ of the Golden Hall in Vienna’s Musikverein on the reverse.
Britannia Silver Coins from The Royal Mint
The Silver Britannia coin is minted with .999 fine silver by the Royal Mint, which is known for its high-quality standards and tightly controlled production protocols.
The Britannia Silver coin has a highly detailed design that showcases Britannia, the female personification of Britain, holding a trident and shield on the reverse.
For the 2024 Britannia Silver Coin, the obverse features a portrait of His Majesty, King Charles III. While many secondary market Britannias will be from previous years featuring a portrait of Queen Elizabeth II.
The Royal Mint incorporates several advanced anti-counterfeiting measures into each coin. These include a latent image on the coin’s surface that changes from a padlock to a trident when viewed from different angles. Additionally, the coin features micro-engraved details and a textured background that is difficult to replicate, ensuring its authenticity and integrity.
The Britannia 1 oz Silver Coin is often available at a lower price than other investment coins, making it a top choice for investors looking for the best priced silver coin.
South African Mint Krugerrands
The Krugerrand Silver Coin features the same iconic design as the gold Krugerrand, but is minted with .999 fine silver. The obverse showcases a portrait of Paul Kruger, the first president of the South African Republic, while the reverse depicts the national animal of South Africa, the springbok, against a backdrop of the country’s landscape. This design has been widely recognized and appreciated since the introduction of the gold Krugerrand in 1967.
Perth Mint Silver Coins
The Kangaroo 1 oz silver coin is a bullion coin produced by the Perth Mint in Australia. Since 2016, it has been produced annually with unlimited mintages as legal tender under the Australian Currency Act of 1965. The coin is struck from .9999 fine silver, making it a highly pure silver investment option.
The design of the coin features a bounding red kangaroo surrounded by rays of sunlight, symbolizing Australia’s vast natural beauty. The reverse of the coin also includes the inscription “AUSTRALIAN KANGAROO”, which also contains a micro-laser engraved letter. This security feature allows for easy authentication of the coin’s genuine nature. Also incorporated into the reverse design are the Perth Mint’s “P” mintmark, the year of issue, and the weight and purity of the coin.
Apart from the Kangaroo 1 oz silver coin, the Perth Mint offers several other investment-grade silver coins. These include:
Australian Lunar Series: The Perth Mint’s Lunar Series is one of its most popular offerings. Each year features a different animal from the Chinese zodiac, with 2024 showcasing the Year of the Dragon. The coins are available in various sizes, including 1 kg, 10 oz, 5 oz, 2 oz, 1 oz, and even smaller fractional sizes.
Koala Silver Coins: Introduced in 2007, the Australian Koala silver coins are another popular series from the Perth Mint. Like the Lunar Series, Koala coins are available in multiple sizes, with the 1 oz version being the most common. The mintage is limited with each year featuring a new design, adding to their collectibility.
Kookaburra Silver Coins: The Kookaburra series started in 1990 and features the iconic Australian bird. Similar to the other series, the Kookaburra coins are available in various sizes, with the 1 oz version being the most popular. Each year showcases a new design, making the series appealing to collectors.
MKS PAMP, the parent company of PAMP Suisse has announced the completion of a project to supply their Castel San Pietro refinery with renewable solar energy. The solar panel installation covers a total area 2000m² rooftop with an expected annual production of 519.7 MWh of electricity.
In 2016, MKS PAMP entered into an agreement with the Swiss Confederation to reduce Co₂ emissions. Since then, the company has reduced its CO₂ emissions at its production site by 41%. Moreover, they continue to source 100% renewable electricity long-term.
“This renewable energy installation demonstrates our path to continued environmental sustainability – we are proud to achieve such objectives with the support of the Castel San Pietro municipality ”, said Phaedon Stamatopoulos, Managing Director, MKS PAMP Ticino in a press release.
Silver is utilized in solar panels as part of the conductive paste that is contained in photovoltaic cells. Silver is well known for its excellent electrical conductivity, which helps in efficiently collecting and transmitting the electricity generated by the solar cells.
MKS PAMP
MKS PAMP GROUP has a significant international footprint and is known for its commitment to sustainability and ethical business practices.
The company’s operations span the gamut of the precious metals industry from refining and manufacturing to trading and finance across key markets worldwide while adhering to strict environmental standards.
PAMP’s refinery is accredited as a Good Delivery provider of the London Bullion Market Association (LBMA) underscoring its reputation for reliability and the high quality of its products.
Throughout its more than 60 year history, PAMP has been at the forefront of integrating advanced security features into its products, including Veriscan® technology, which uses microscopic surface topography to register and verify the authenticity of gold bars.
First proposed in 2012, the Western Solar Plan from the Bureau of Land Management aims to facilitate the development of utility-scale solar energy projects on public lands.
The Biden administration has updated the plan, with several proposed options that would divert anywhere from 8 million to up to 55 million acres of public lands across 11 Western states to be made available for solar energy.
For utility-scale solar installations, a commonly used estimate is that 1 acre of solar panels can accommodate about 1,000 panels, considering the necessary spacing and infrastructure. This estimate can vary based on the design and layout specifics of the installation but serves as a good baseline for calculation.
To meet only Los Angeles’s annual electricity consumption of approximately 26 billion kWh, it would require about 42.25 million solar panels.
A typical 300 watt solar panel uses approximately 0.1 to 0.2 grams of silver per watt of solar cell, with roughly 30 to 60 grams of silver per panel. How much silver would it take to manufacture enough solar panels to power Los Angeles? 81,502,142 troy ounces, roughly 2,535,058 kilos of silver.
While the efficiency of solar panels has been increasing over the years, this plan from the BLM is pretty absurd.
This plan is part of the Biden administration’s goal of generating 25 gigawatts (GW) of electricity from wind and solar on public lands by 2025—and generating 100 percent “renewable” electricity by 2035—solar panels would need to be sited on 700,000 acres of public land.
The sheer scope of the BLM plan—designating tens of millions of acres for solar development when the agency says 700,000 acres would suffice to meet Biden administration goals—is a red flag for many communities.
To celebrate the 20th Anniversary of the Call of Duty video game franchise, Activision has partnered with PAMP Suisse to develop a line of limited edition silver and gold bars featuring the imagery from the game.
The obverse shows the outline of a shield with a game character dressed in military fatigues along with the franchise title “Call of Duty” in vertical orientation. The reverse shows a diagonal pattern of Call of Duty Modern Warfare III logo, with the makers hallmark, weight and purity in the center and includes a unique serial number that is also printed on the matching assay card.
Additionally, all of the COD silver and gold bars include a code that is redeemable for a bonus in-game weapon charm.
Further details can be found in the press release from MKS PAMP.
PAMP Suisse
Founded in 1977 and based in Ticino, Switzerland, PAMP is one of the world’s leading bullion brands, known for its high-quality gold, silver, platinum, and palladium products. The company produces a wide range of bullion products, including bars, coins, and ingots, which are popular among investors and collectors alike for their purity, craftsmanship, and innovative designs.
PAMP Suisse gold bars come with an assay certificate, which guarantees the purity, weight, and authenticity of the bar. Each PAMP Suisse gold bar is individually serialized, which aids in authentication and adds to its collectibility. While the intrinsic value of the gold itself is a significant factor in the value, the collectibility of these limited edition bars can add a premium above the spot price of gold.
Call of Duty
“Call of Duty” is an influential and popular first-person shooter video game franchise developed and published by Activision. The series began with the launch of the original “Call of Duty” game on October 29, 2003. The game was initially set in World War II and was praised for its immersive storytelling, realistic gameplay, and engaging multiplayer modes. Over the years, the franchise has expanded to include various settings, including modern times, futuristic worlds, and even space.
“Call of Duty: Modern Warfare” is an update of the original game that features missions that mirror modern military conflicts and tactics. The franchise itself is developed and published by Activision, with various development studios working on different entries, including Infinity Ward, Treyarch, and Sledgehammer Games.
The original “Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare” launched in November 2007 and was a pivotal game in the series, marking a shift from World War II settings to contemporary battlefields and significantly influencing the first-person shooter genre with its realistic gameplay, narrative depth, and multiplayer modes.
The “Call of Duty” franchise boasts millions of active players across its various titles and has extended its reach beyond video games into a broad array of merchandise and media, including Action figures, LEGO sets, gaming peripherals like branded controllers, headsets, and mouse pads and narrative extensions of the franchise’s storylines, offering deeper dives into its lore and characters.