If you are new to silver stacking (collecting) or thinking about taking that step toward investing in precious metals then I'd like to help you define a couple of terms that you will undoubtedly see along the way.

The two terms we will discuss today in regards to silver are coins and rounds. Though they both may appear the same there are a few differences that make all the difference. Let's begin.

Coins

A silver coin is, by industry definition, struck and guaranteed by a government mint. It has a face value stamped on it and is legal tender in the country of issuance. Silver coins usually carry a higher premium than silver rounds. Here are a few examples of .999 fine silver coins.

The reverse (tails) of three silver coins

The obverse (heads) of the same three coins

Note the face value stamped into each coin as well as the government of issuance.

Rounds

Silver rounds are by industry definition, produced by private silver mints. Private mints (or anyone really) are not allowed to print a face value on silver rounds. If you are looking to add low-cost silver to your stack then rounds are the way to go. Let's look at a few .999 fine silver rounds.

The obverse (heads) of three silver rounds from three different mints

The reverse (tails) of the same three rounds

You can see the weight and purity here but notice there is no face value on these rounds. You can check the coinage clause with some discussion at that link or just check out the US Constitution, ARTICLE I, SECTION 8, CLAUSE 5, for some real olde tyme mumbo-jumbo.

Thanks again for checking in...