Let’s be honest — most people don’t give much thought to dimes, quarters, or half-dollars minted before 1965. But if you’ve ever held a handful of junk silver, you know: there’s something different about the weight of real money.
In a world that’s increasingly digital, inflated, and uncertain, smart investors are turning back to assets that have stood the test of time — and junk silver is quietly becoming one of the most strategic, practical buys in the market.
At First and Best Precious Metals, we don’t just sell it — we believe in it. And right now, it’s one of the few places we see real value hiding in plain sight.
What Is Junk Silver?
“Junk silver” refers to circulated U.S. coins minted in 1964 or earlier that contain 90% real silver. These include:
- Roosevelt and Mercury dimes
- Washington quarters
- Franklin and Kennedy half-dollars
They’re called “junk” only because they carry no collector premium — but make no mistake, there’s nothing junk about 90% silver.
Pro Tip: $1.40 in face value (say, 14 dimes or 6 quarters and a dime) equals 1 troy ounce of silver.
Why We Strongly Recommend Junk Silver in 2025
1. It’s Arguably the Best Barter Tool You Can Own
We don’t say this to be alarmist — but if digital systems ever go down, or if inflation gets worse, junk silver gives you optionality.
- It’s instantly recognizable
- It breaks down into small, tradable units
- It’s trusted across generations
- And it’s easy to verify by weight and edge (no copper stripe = real deal)
You don’t want to trade a $2,300 gold coin for groceries. You want silver that feels like “change” — and this is it.
2. The Supply is Capped — Forever
Here’s something few people realize: no new junk silver has been minted since 1964. That means what exists in circulation today is all there ever will be. As time goes on, more of it gets lost, hoarded, or melted down — so it becomes harder to find, especially in bulk.
And that has real implications:
- When demand rises (as it often does during inflation or uncertainty), premiums spike for buyers
- At the same time, buyback offers increase — which means current holders can often sell well above the silver spot price
- Unlike bullion, where you typically lose a little on the buy/sell spread, junk silver sometimes flips that — giving you a positive break-even or even a net gain when you sell
- When more sellers enter the market, premiums naturally fall again — but the supply is permanently limited
Right now, premiums are at some of the lowest levels we’ve seen in years — which is exactly why we’re buying aggressively. The upside potential isn’t just in the silver price… it’s also in how the market treats junk silver when it gets tight.
3. It’s Cheap, Liquid, and Doesn’t Require a Finance Degree
Unlike bullion with fancy packaging or collectible coins that need grading and storage, junk silver is simple.
- No need to worry about condition or mint marks
- No confusion over authenticity
- Just weight plus silver equals value
And when it’s time to sell? You can walk into a local shop or dealer and trade it for cash on the spot. That’s real liquidity.
4. It Works for Everyone — New Buyers to Veterans
We’ve helped first-time silver buyers build their starter stack entirely with junk silver. We’ve also seen experienced investors use it as a barter reserve or add it to a portfolio to balance larger gold holdings.
It’s the most approachable, versatile, and easy-to-understand form of physical silver.
And right now, it’s underpriced relative to everything else in the metals world.
How to Start with Junk Silver (the First and Best Way)
At First & Best Precious Metals, we make buying silver simple — no gimmicks, no online confusion, no surprises.
Here’s how we help:
1. Clarify Your Goals
We start with one question: what are you trying to protect or prepare for? Once we know that, we guide you toward the right mix of metals.
2. Educate Without Overwhelming
We walk you through your options — junk silver, bullion coins, bars — and explain the trade-offs in plain English.
3. Give You a Human Point of Contact
You can text or call us directly at (904) 624‑1231. No bots. No forms. Just honest conversation.
4. Help You Store It Smart
We’ll talk through home vs. vault storage and make sure your silver is protected and accessible.
5. Stay in Touch
Silver isn’t a one-time buy. Markets shift, life changes. We’ll be here to help you navigate.
Final Thoughts
Junk silver isn’t sexy — and that’s exactly why it works. It’s humble. It’s real. And it’s resilient.
In our opinion, it’s one of the most undervalued tools in the preparedness world today. And we’re here to help you get it while it’s still available at these prices.
If you’re ready to make a move, or just have a question, call or text us anytime at (904) 624‑1231.
Junk Silver FAQ (Updated for 2025)
What is junk silver and why should I buy it?
It’s 90% silver U.S. coinage minted before 1965 — widely traded, easily recognized, and historically sound. No fluff, just real silver.
How much silver is in each coin?
- Dime: 0.0715 oz
- Quarter: 0.1787 oz
- Half Dollar: 0.3575 oz
$1.40 face = 1 troy oz
Is it good for barter?
Yes — arguably the best silver format for emergency use. It’s trusted, divisible, and highly recognizable.
Where can I buy it?
Right here. Call or text us at (904) 624‑1231 to place your order or ask questions. We serve clients across Ponte Vedra, Nocatee, Jacksonville, and beyond.
Can I sell it back?
Absolutely. We offer transparent buyback pricing based on weight and current spot value — with no games or hidden fees.
Built on Trust. Backed by Real Value.
At First and Best, we don’t push volume. We guide people to the right choice — for them, for their families, and for the future.
Junk silver just happens to be one of the best-kept secrets in that mission right now.
