Silver
Mint coins are the most expensive way to buy silver because each coin has a premium over the spot price of silver. In terms of a return on investment it is not the very best choice.
Bars are a better investment, especially the larger bars, as the premium is substantially less.
If investing in silver, certificates or exchange traded funds are another way to go. It costs less to buy or sell, as you do not take delivery. This is all done through paperwork.
If you enjoy collecting coins and/or bars as a hobby, then the choice can be overwhelming. You will enjoy your collection and over time your collection will go up in value.
Some of the best coins to collect are the American Silver Eagle and the Phoenix Silver Dollar . The American Silver Eagle is legal tender, the Phoenix Dollar is not.
A good way to start buying silver bullion online, like at an eBay auction, is to start buying the smaller one and ten ounce bar.
Be aware of counterfeit. It is easy to counterfeit a 100 ounce bar by drilling a hole in the side of the bar, filling it up with lead and closing off the hole with silver. It is very hard to detect this as you almost have to cut the bar in half. It is a lot harder to do with a smaller bar and almost not worthwhile. The value of the silver is in the weight, so ten 10-ounce bars have the same value as one 100-ounce bar.
When buying silver bars produced by a mint you get a certificate. The bar is sealed in plastic and should remain so throughout the it's life.
Whether you buy silver as a hobby or as an investment, it can be a fun and rewarding experience.
