Silver Melt Value Formula:
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The melt value represents the intrinsic value of the silver content in a coin or bullion based on current silver spot price. It's calculated by multiplying the weight, purity, and current market price of silver.
The calculator uses the silver melt value formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula calculates the actual silver content value by accounting for both the physical weight and purity of the silver.
Details: Knowing the melt value helps investors and collectors understand the minimum value of their silver items, separate from any numismatic or collectible value.
Tips: Enter weight in troy ounces, purity as a decimal fraction (e.g. 0.999 for fine silver), and current spot price in USD per ounce. All values must be positive numbers.
Q1: What's the difference between troy ounce and regular ounce?
A: A troy ounce (31.1035 grams) is heavier than a standard ounce (28.3495 grams). Precious metals are always measured in troy ounces.
Q2: How do I find the current spot price?
A: Spot prices are available from commodities exchanges like COMEX or financial news websites. They fluctuate throughout the trading day.
Q3: What purity should I use for common silver coins?
A: Common purities: 0.999 (fine silver), 0.925 (sterling), 0.900 (US pre-1965 coins), 0.835 (European standard).
Q4: Does this calculator work for gold too?
A: Yes, the same formula applies to gold when using gold weight and spot price, though gold purity is typically expressed in karats.
Q5: Why is melt value different from purchase price?
A: Purchase price includes premiums for fabrication, distribution, dealer margins, and sometimes collectible value above the metal content.