Reply #19: Depends on what you are in the market for

[Po_d Mainiac]

circulated scrap is trading on the Bay at melt (or near) pricing. American Silver Eagles and Canadian Maples are $2-$2.50 per/oz over spot. (I'm factoring in the cost of shipping) This trend has been going on for a several years. The only time that trend broke was during the last dip, when bulk lots were selling above. What was interesting, if you did a little looking, you could find who the bidders were through their feedback rating numbers. The large wholesalers were stocking up.

Where caution is required is if you are looking for upgrades, and/or tough dates. Grading comes into play, and there are plenty of sellers that don't have a clue what the distinctions are. There is also a ton of confusion regarding "doubled die" and "mechanical/strike doubling" One is a true value adding, rare mint error, and the other a very common effect from mass production that adds zip to the value of a coin. An issue of "Photograde" is worth the investment. Cherrypickers' Guide is another handy reference.

Some key eBay phrases to look for are:
Un-searched roll........This actually means that these have been pawed over quite well
unopened/sealed mint set.......since the mint never licked the envelopes, someone took a peek
Rare......often used to describe a 1964 circulated Washington quarter......hmmmmmm
Original bank roll.......But the coins shown are in a plastic tube.
Shotgun roll......another sure bet that these coins have gotten a good look-see
Uncleaned.......If the coin is real bright, you can bet it's been dipped.
Estate......Like this is supposed to make any difference?
Monster rainbow toned.......probably sat on a window sill for a couple days in dish soap and water. (It does work)
proof-like.......but the seller has 50 "proof-like" coins listed

As for the silver content in US coins: dimes, quarters, and halves minted prior to 1965 are 90% silver/10% copper or .724oz silver/$1 face value. Melt value is figured at .715oz/$1. Silver dollars have .7734oz silver per coin. Multiply current spot price X silver content X face value = silver value

hope this helps...........ymmv