Expert: Joe Hylas - 1/29/2012

Question
i see there is only about $1.50 difference between 1oz silver bullion coins and 1oz silver bars from my online precious metal dealer.

#1 will i get a better price if i sell the coins,because there might be a numismatic value?
#2 is it better to buy silver bars with serial numbers?
#3  why do different manufacturers(like engelhard) sell for a higher spot value?

maybe too may questions so any answers will be much appreciated.
thanks so much

Answer
Chances are that the coins are all common pieces and only trade for their silver content.  That said, it may pay to research what you have before selling each coin.

Not every company puts serial numbers on bars and usually it is only on 100 oz. or larger bars.  Serial numbers do not add any value to the bar, it is mainly for serurity reasons.

Engelhard carries a premium because they are what is known as "COMEX ACCEPTABLE" and they have a long standing reputation.  However, there are other bars that may be a touch cheaper such as Johnson Matthey, Royal Canadian Mint, Credit Suisse.
Also, a lot may have to do with what the bar looks like.  An old "poured" bar will traditionally sell for less that a newer extruded bar.

Regards
Joe Hylas