Expert: Dmitry Livshits - 4/8/2010

Question
QUESTION: Hello i just got this guy and dont know nothing about this. i purchased it from a lady needing money badly. Its a 1995 1lb. .999. fine silver walking liberty.....now my question is what is it worth and also something scaring me is on the side of the coin there is a section that has u.p.0125...what does that mean...thanks for your time..Travis

ANSWER: Hi Travis,
This sounds to me like a genuine one troy pound pure silver round. The 0125 on the edge is the serial number for that coin, which the fakes (which there are plenty of) do not have.
This type of item is a silver bullion investment piece, made specifically to be sold as an investment in silver. However, there is still a small collectible premium on it.
I would assume this is a "proof" strike, as most of these are. This would have the low relief fields looking shiny and mirror-like and the raised features looking almost frosted.
The current silver value of the piece is right around $285, but it would easily sell for $300 or even $325 if you did not mind waiting for a buyer.
It's also worth noting that considering the current trends, you are better off keeping the silver than having an equal amount of money in a bank. Silver has been steadily increasing in value faster than what banks give for an interest rate nowadays.
Thanks for the question! =)

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: I really appreciate the help.... thank you so much. Since i got the subject up i also got another one with it. Is the same standing liberty but its says 5 troy ounce .999 fine silver on it and its a 1996. what can you tell me about this guy. also if i was to take these to a coin shop i can expect not to get 300 for that big boy right?

Answer
Hi again Travis,
Similar story on the 5oz bar. Silver value is around $90 and collector value is $100. If you brought these to a coin shop the most they will pay is 10% below silver value. These shops are buying to make a profit, so they will not even consider the collector value. Your best bet is to sell them on eBay, where there are plenty of collectors for them.
Please don't forget to rate the answers.
Thanks again! =)