Selling Silverware vs. Selling Silver Coins: Which Pays More — and Why

If you have a box of old coins or a dusty silverware set in a cabinet, you’re not alone. Many people hold onto these items for years, not realizing some could be worth hundreds — or even thousands — if sold the right way.

Both coins and flatware can carry real value, but the better payout depends on what you have, what condition it’s in, and who you sell it to. Here’s what you should know before you sell anything for scrap.

1. How Silverware Really Gets Priced

Most people think an old pattern must be valuable, but weight and purity drive almost all of the real value.

Sterling vs. Plated:

• Sterling silver is 92.5% pure. Look for markings like “925” or “Sterling.”

• Silver-plated items (marked “EPNS,” “IS,” or “silver plate”) have very little real silver and usually aren’t bought for scrap.

Brand and Pattern:

Brands like Tiffany, Gorham, Wallace, or Reed & Barton can add value, especially if the pattern is collectible or discontinued.

Condition:

Bent or tarnished flatware still has melt value. If you have a complete set in good condition, a buyer may resell it as estate silver for more than just melt.

2. How Silver Coins Get Valued

Coins are more complex because they can have both melt value and collector value.

Melt Value:

U.S. coins minted before 1965 usually contain 90% silver. These “junk silver” coins are sold for their weight at the day’s market price.

Collector Value:

This is where many sellers lose money. A worn 1964 quarter is usually scrap, but a rare date, mint mark, or a coin in great condition can sell for far more to collectors. For example, certain Morgan silver dollars or low-mintage coins can be worth hundreds or more.

Condition Matters:

Scratches, heavy wear, or cleaning can lower a coin’s collector value. A dull, unpolished coin can be worth more than a shiny, cleaned one.

3. Which Pays More Right Now?

It depends.

A complete sterling silverware set often beats coins on melt value alone if it’s heavy enough. But if you have collectible coins, they can bring in far more than scrap weight — sometimes by a wide margin.

4. Selling Mistakes to Avoid

• Don’t rush to pawn shops or mail-in kits. Many only pay scrap value and overlook collector premiums.

• Don’t clean coins. Polishing can ruin their value to serious buyers.

• Don’t mix sterling and plated silver. Always separate them so you know what’s truly valuable.

5. Who Should You Sell To?

The best buyers test and weigh everything in front of you. They know the difference between scrap and collectible value. They give you clear prices, explain what they’re paying for, and don’t pressure you.

The Bottom Line

If you want the most money, understand what you have. Sterling silver flatware is straightforward — weight times purity. Coins need more care. If you suspect you have rare or valuable coins, get an appraisal first. Never sell collectible coins at melt weight alone.

At American Gold & Diamond Buyers, we buy both. We test, weigh, and explain each piece with you there, so you know exactly what you’re selling — and what it’s really worth.