Precious metals come in many forms. Knowing whether an item is a coin, bullion product or scrap can help explain how it may be evaluated, but there is often overlap between the categories.
Coins
Coins are issued by governments and carry a denomination, even when their metal value is much higher than the face value stamped on them. Some are primarily valued for precious-metal content, while others may have additional value because of rarity, condition, date or mint mark.
A professional evaluation should consider whether a coin deserves attention beyond its silver or gold weight.
Bullion
Bullion generally refers to bars, rounds and certain investment coins produced and traded mainly for their precious-metal content. Weight, purity, recognized markings and current market conditions are central to the evaluation.
Original packaging or certificates can be helpful when available, especially with recognized investment products.
Scrap precious metal
Scrap can include broken jewelry, dental gold, damaged sterling items, watch components and other objects valued largely for recoverable precious-metal content. The word scrap describes the market category—it does not mean the item is worthless.
- Broken chains and rings
- Mismatched earrings
- Damaged sterling pieces
- Gold or platinum components
- Items no longer useful in their current form
When categories overlap
A damaged coin might still be recognizable as a coin, and an old piece of jewelry may have antique value in addition to metal value. Bring the item intact and let the evaluation determine the most appropriate way to consider it.
Every item is different. The most reliable way to understand what you have is through an in-person evaluation.