Silver rally has Americans buying and selling coins in large numbers

Silver has roughly tripled over the past year and dealers report record levels of both buying and selling of coins, with premiums on one-ounce American Eagle coins reaching about $12 over spot.

Silver's recent price rise has drawn heavy retail interest and larger volumes at bullion dealers. Over the past year the metal roughly tripled in value, and it climbed about 30% in the most recent month. Dealers and industry sources say both buying and selling of coins have surged. One U.S. bullion dealer reported its largest sales month in December in its 16-year history. Key facts: - Silver has roughly tripled over the past year and gained about 30% in the most recent month, as reported. - Dealers describe a strong influx of retail purchasers and sellers, and record levels of transactions for physical coins. - Money Metals Exchange said December was its largest sales month in 16 years when silver rose about 27%. - The dealer reported charging roughly $12 over spot for one-ounce American Eagle silver coins for buyers, and paying sellers about $5–$8, which it described as the largest dollar premiums on record for its platform. - Industry commentary links the rally to demand for hard assets amid geopolitical concerns, supply tightness, and uncertainty about the Federal Reserve. Summary: The rally has driven notable changes in physical silver market flows, with elevated retail trading and higher dealer volumes and premiums. Undetermined at this time.