DrKarlMoneys

I suppose the trick to valuing hand poured silver products is to find something that has broad appeal and finished to a standard that showcases the work required to produce it. Also I would be thinking would anyone else buy this if I wanted to sell later down the line.
I would look at some of the Pourers in the forum and try to write down what draws you/me to their products in general.
BYB's have a beautiful natural simplicity to them and rustic charm
Silver Angel's look to be finished to a high standard and have a lovely contrast of highly polished surfaces against stark details
StBee's has some wonderful designs  full of detail and high polished finishes.
The standard set by the above to me justifies the premiums attached to their pieces.
 
Your pic below is by far my favorite of your work so far. A sure keeper. a good balance of clean detail and hand poured ripples.

Hi all, this was an interesting read and topic, I am of course very biased in this area!
 
In the realm of precious metals, silver has long held a prominent place, prized for its beauty, utility, and intrinsic value. However, within this broad category, there exists a subset of silver that stands out from the rest: hand-poured silver. Despite being made of the same elemental material as other silver products, hand-poured silver often commands a significantly higher price. Is this premium justified? I argue that, given the distinctive qualities and unparalleled appeal of hand-poured silver, a premium of at least 100% above the spot price is not only fair but also merited.
To appreciate the worthiness of this premium, one must first understand what hand-poured silver is and how it differs from its more conventionally minted counterparts. Hand-poured silver is just as it sounds: silver that is melted down and poured by hand into a mold, then left to cool and solidify. This process is labor-intensive, demanding both time and a high level of craftsmanship that is not required for mass-produced silver items.
The resulting pieces are unique, each with its own individual characteristics. No two hand-poured silver items are identical, which is a stark contrast to mass-produced silver bars or coins that are virtually indistinguishable from one another. This uniqueness adds a degree of rarity to each piece, increasing its value beyond that of its mere silver content.
Furthermore, hand-poured silver embodies a tangible connection to history and tradition. The process of hand-pouring silver has been used for centuries, virtually unchanged. When you hold a piece of hand-poured silver, you are not just holding a precious metal; you are holding a piece of history, a testament to the timeless value of this remarkable element. This historical and emotional connection to the past is something that simply cannot be manufactured en masse, adding to the premium that hand-poured silver commands.
Another essential factor contributing to the premium is the aesthetic appeal of hand-poured silver. Each piece is a work of art, with its own unique textures and patterns that are created during the cooling process. The rustic and organic look of hand-poured silver often appeals to collectors and investors who appreciate its unique beauty, which can't be replicated in mass-produced items.
The craftsmanship involved in creating hand-poured silver also warrants a higher premium. Skilled artisans dedicate their time and expertise to create these pieces, often taking hours to produce a single item. This human element in the production process sets hand-poured silver apart from other silver products that are churned out by automated machines. The artisan's skill and dedication are reflected in the final product, adding a layer of value that goes beyond the metal's weight.
Finally, the market dictates the price of any product, and hand-poured silver is no exception. There is a thriving market for these unique pieces, with collectors and investors willing to pay a premium for the benefits mentioned above. The law of supply and demand comes into play here. The supply of hand-poured silver is limited due to the time and effort required to create each piece, while the demand remains high because of its unique qualities. This imbalance pushes the price above that of standard silver items.
In light of these factors, it becomes clear why hand-poured silver commands a significant premium over the spot price of silver. The uniqueness, historical connection, aesthetic appeal, artisan craftsmanship, and market dynamics all contribute to its higher price. When you purchase a piece of hand-poured silver, you are notjust acquiring a metal - you are investing in art, history, craftsmanship, and uniqueness. Therefore, a premium of at least 100% above the spot price of silver is not only fair, but it is also justified.
However, it's worth noting that investing in hand-poured silver, like all investments, comes with risks and should be done with care. It is crucial to do thorough research, understand the dynamics of the market, and make informed decisions. Potential investors should also be aware that while hand-poured silver carries a premium, it might not always be easy to liquidate without losing that premium, especially in a hurry or during a downturn in the silver market.
In conclusion, hand-poured silver is more than a precious metal. It is a unique product, steeped in history, crafted with care, and appealing to a specific market of discerning collectors and investors. As such, it is entirely reasonable that it should carry a premium significantly above the spot price of silver. This premium reflects not just the silver content of the piece, but also the additional layers of value that hand-poured silver offers. Whether you're an investor looking for a unique addition to your portfolio, or a collector drawn to the allure of hand-poured silver, the premium is a testament to the value that these unique pieces hold.

Geopolitical uncertainty can certainly drive increases in precious metal prices and given the apparent mutiny in Russia this could be a good time to buy.

Hello Folks, i have this lovely bar for sale today and it is the last one left in the first release of our 2023 100g Angel's Silver bars.  We will be releasing the second batch later in the year.
It has a mirror finish on all sides and has our distinctive laser etching on the front.
Tested for purity and laser hallmarked by the Edinburgh Assay as always.
Will be gift boxed and a COA supplied
Priced at £122 delivered to a uk address.
PPFF or bank transfer to a UK business bank account please
Thanks for looking

I do play occasionally, and used to play for £1 a point many years ago. I almost always won, although most gamblers say and believe that.
I was always aware that I was not up to professional hustler standard, just better than 99% or 99.9% of the population, which is not saying much.
Some years ago, our son Duncan and I had a match, after he had read a number of backgammon books, which were more recent than the ones I had read. He won, and I have not played since. (Self proclaimed bad sport!).
Years before that, when I had read how to play, but never played a proper game, we were at the Ideal Home Exhibition in London. Crockfords had a stand, with backgammon boards set out. There was also at least one very attractive young hostess, who smiled and asked me if I would like to play with her (or words to that effect). She may have asked had I ever played before, and I answered her. She had to help me set the board up properly, and remind me which direction we were playing. We did use the doubling cube, but were not playing for money.
I won about 5 straight games, (with more than my share of luck), then she made an excuse, got up, and left. My guess is that she thought I was winding her up.
😎

It is definitely silver .833. The toning is as should be and the coin look right.
They are selling on forum @£17-£18/coin, with 2nd class included.
Not really a numismatic extrinsic value, they are very common bullion coins. 

My silver apostle spoon, made by Robert Tyte of Salisbury in 1630 and worth about £2000.
 

You sound a similar age to me, my little life story may help or guide.
........... I've posted my little how I got into gold story in prior years, but it seems relevant to this thread today. Here's it again 
 

     
 

    I'm 45 now and through my twenties, i guess I must have staked and wasted around £75k-£100k at a rough guess through bookies, FOBTs, online poker and land based casinos.
    
    
    
    Some good days but it all quickly went back as losings in the end.
    
    
    
    I went cold turkey at 30-31 and managed a few months until i relapsed again.
    
    
    
    Told myself never again.
    
    
    
    It was this time I found about gold, since 2008-2009 I have bought investment gold every month, a gold sovereign here, a half sovereign there, 1/2 oz on a good month, a full oz of fine gold when bonus from work.
    
    
    
    What this did was separate actual cash i could gamble and move it into another tangible thing with value that i couldn't easily spunk away or spend.
    
    
    
    Slowly but surely, my gold stack has grown, every month, as i would buy a another gold coin every fortnight or so.
    
    
    
    The ancient Aztecs called Gold 'the sweat of the sun'
    
    
    
    Blood, sweat, tears and toil getting it out of the ground.
    
    
    
    YOUR blood sweat and tears represents how hard you have worked to get this coin you now hold, and continue to hold ongoing.
    
    
    
    Your pile of gold increases monthly.
    
    
    
    Gold is also a little bit of a gamble, it will never go to zero, it has been money for 5,000+ years, and can also go up in value
    
    
    
    Currently im now VERY nicely up in £ terms if i chose to cash in and take some profits.
    
    
    
    A quote stuck with me quite prophetically, as i've never believed in loans or credit cards.
    
    
    
    “Gold is the money of kings, silver is the money of gentlemen, barter is the money of peasants – but debt is the money of slaves.” ― Norm Franz, Money & Wealth in the New Millennium: A Prophetic Guide to the New World Economic Order
    
    
    
    The bigger my gold stack grows the more satisfied I become and want more. A positive kind of addiction.
    
    
    
    I have not yet cashed in one single coin for gambling and my investment pile has grew.
    
    
    
    I have cashed gold in here on the forum and realized better than dealer prices to increase my business and expand/buy new vans/staff/tech
    
    
    
    This degree of separation that takes place between the gold coin and actual cash i can spunk gambling is awesome.
    
    
    
    Yet i know at a glance my total gold grams i have on any given day, and know how much it is worth should i cash in.
    
    
    
    When money is in a bank AC it is just like figures on a screen to me, cash in my hand just gambling token/betting voucher credits.
    
    
    
    I could never hold onto money while it was in a bank account, savings account would be were there for good intention but the money came out for gambling.
    
    
    
    Gold doesn't do that for me, the degree of separation between between the time and effort it takes to cash in a gold coin, packing posting, sending, waiting for bank transfer for payment etc. is a few days minimum.
    
    
    
    By which times my urge to gamble has long since past.
    
    
    
    whilst i will always have that gamble bug inside me, i cant extinguish that flame as i like to to take risks, i'm self employed and risk = reward. and i have done well working over the years.
    
    
    
    I still have my monthly little gamble, but as my priority with my spare cash is always to buy a minimum amount of gold, i'm never exposed to loose mega money EVER, fact these days, as the money isn't there because it has been converted from one asset class cash into another asset gold.
    
    
    
    The small amount i assign myself to have a gamble is minimal, £100 or £200 for a month. should i win, i actually treat myself to some more gold coins for my stack.
    
    
    
    With doing this approach and putting what used to be gambling stake money cash into gold, i've got my good nest egg of gold if i cashed it in from my safe deposit box.
    
    
    
    I purposely store the gold in a safety deposit centre in a city that is hours drive/train ride away to resist the sudden urge to gamble/cash in.
    
    
    
    A financial advisor would tell you it is stupid and daft to put all your eggs in one basket with one asset/investments, but to a gambler?
    
    
    
    would i sooner have this,  lots of gold is much better than having nothing at all, **** all to show for it - so it works for me
    
    
    
    Knowing this fall back of savings is there for any of lifes eventualities makes me sleep wonderfully at night.
    
    
    
    This approach may not be for everyone but if you can never hold onto money it has worked wonders for me.
    
    
    
    Sorry for the rambles length here today but to those nodding their head to this and this life course maybe sounds a familiar path to yours, if my narrative resonates with you, give gold a try. please try it, you might just like it, or start just buying gold with your big wins.
    
   https://www.thesilverforum.com/topic/32375-your-gold-story-how-it-happened/?do=findComment&comment=416089
 

     
 

     
 

     
 
https://www.thesilverforum.com/topic/60379-anyone-else-addicted-to-buying-gold/?do=findComment&comment=638451
 
I'm about 15 years into my stacking journey, ahead of you though 

Weekend release.
1oz Patriots available in 2 styles both with the reverse pebble back design 
 
1oz polished rounds 
1oz Antiqued Slabs 
£30 each 
 
I have available 6 of each version available here as well as stock on my website 
These are an open mintage and lovely in hand 
Plus Postage 
£3.50 1st signed 
£7..special delivery 
£11 interbational tracked 
 
PPFF add %4 for GS, cashapp or BT 
Add to box available

Looks a bit like Moses - 'let my people go!'

Unfortunately safety deposit boxes aren't as fool proof as they should be-there have been cases in the UK of contents going missing and the bank shrugging their shoulders.
Then there's incompetence on the part of the bank.

Hey TSF members,
Coming to the UK (13th-24th May) and am hoping meet one/few TSF members face-to-face (F2F) to do a couple of trades!
I would prefer F2F as that way I can actually meet some TSF members, you can look at each and every coin you are buying with your own eyes, I can buy you a coffee and we can share a story or two. All the pieces for sale are from my own personal collection and I am looking to receive GBP cash only, as it is much easier for me to convert back to JPY cash once I return to Tokyo! 
As far as timing and places go there is a possibility to meet at the following times -
Sun 14th May -     morning/lunchtime (anywhere in central London - staying in Goodge Street area)
Sun 21st May -     dinner time onwards (anywhere in central London - staying in Soho area)
Mon 22nd May -   Afternoon (around Clacton-on-Sea, Essex)
Tue 23rd May -     Morning (Clacton-on-Sea, Essex) OR mid-afternoon onwards (anywhere in central London - staying in Shoreditch)
Wed 24th May -    morning/lunchtime (anywhere in central London)
Just type in the thread  below "BUZZ LOT (lot number)" which means you agree to purchase the lot at the agreed price as listed to reserve the lot. If you buy more than one lot will apply a little more discount at the end off the grand total!
Lot 5 – 5 x 1 oz Silver Australian Coloured Lunar Dragons (Series II) - reduced to £COMPLETED 
**please do your own research against ebay prices - these can go well over $100 USD per coin**
- 1 x 2012 1 oz Silver Australian Lunar Dragon (Series II) - Red 64,001 mintage
- 1 x 2012 1 oz Silver Australian Lunar Dragon (Series II) - Black 15,186 mintage
- 1 x 2012 1 oz Silver Australian Lunar Dragon (Series II) - White 12,156 mintage
- 1 x 2012 1 oz Silver Australian Lunar Dragon (Series II) - Gold 11,027 mintage
- 1 x 2012 1 oz Silver Australian Lunar Dragon (Series II) - Silver 12,523 mintage

Lot 6 – 5 x 1 oz Silver Australian Koalas - rarer years - 5 oz total - £SOLD PENDING
- 1 x 2007 1 oz Silver Australian Koala BU Coin (first year – mintage just 137,768)
- 1 x 2009 1 oz Silver Australian Koala BU Coin (mintage 336,757)
- 2 x 2010 1 oz Silver Australian Koala BU Coin (mintage 233,531)
- 1 x 2012 1 oz Silver Australian Koala BU Coin (mintage 388,046)

Any questions at all, feel free to send me a PM.
Thank you everyone,
andsing56

My little gripe with safe deposit box is paying insurance on top.
It's like saying. We are safe  but we ain't that safe.
Each box should be just £100,000 insured by default and factored into your price
Rant over.still happier someone else will have a gun to their head over mine with a break in at home 

Safe deposit box insurance. It does get a bit silly safeguarding the safeguards but better than the nicknacks going walkies.  
 

So far I've never had a SD package or the contents go missing.  I have however had SD items simply popped through the letterbox, and that seems to be the growing trend I find.  I rarely get asked to sign for them. There is only one of several posties who deliver here who always asks for a signature. The rest don't bother.   I've also had a couple of SD items take 48 hours to arrive rather than the promised next day by 1pm.
For the short time I was purchasing directly from the Royal Mint I never had a package go missing or arriving damaged and I honestly can't fault their service.
I couldn't imagine shelling out for a safety deposit box to the tune of hundreds of pounds for however many years I would need the thing, but then I do have several crossbows and a multitude of other collectable pointy and extremely sharp edged items of a certain type here at home which any burglars would find most inconvenient to be confronted with..🤔 The whole family is also well practiced in their usage...

Unfortunately safety deposit boxes aren't as fool proof as they should be-there have been cases in the UK of contents going missing and the bank shrugging their shoulders.
Then there's incompetence on the part of the bank.

Unfortunately safety deposit boxes aren't as fool proof as they should be-there have been cases in the UK of contents going missing and the bank shrugging their shoulders.
Then there's incompetence on the part of the bank.

This guy mentions something about 90-100 tons, check it out:
 

🔥🔥Liquid Metals UK🔥🔥 
 
Pirate training LMUK style 
2ozt 999 fine silver with iridium finish 
Sigma pro verified in house 
Comes with COA and one of my custom stickers 
Available for sale 
£70/$83.10 plus ship 
£11/$13.06 international tracked 
Or can message me as I offer a box program 
PPFF or BT 


2023-04-23-103210384.mp4

Look into my eyes, not around my eyes, focus on the coin, think calming thoughts, and ......relax... you're back in the room 

If you look at art coins like the rest of silver, your throat will close up and you heart will stop. Bloody expensive for the silver (or gold or whatever).
Investment? Like most things, you need someone to sell to. Common silver is easy to shift, art pieces less so. I've seen the few that come onto this forum go for under their purchase price. I've got a few I bought from various mints around Europe. Fell in love with the designs. I sometimes wince over the cost even now. 
And then the VAT rules changed. That made everything even more expensive. The last art coin I bought came with a hefty extra bill thanks to that.
But they're not an investment. At least I don't look at them that way. They are art pieces, and I treat them as ornaments. 
Exit strategy? Sell the bullion. Bury the art with me. 

In the words of Bill Bailey: "only you can answer that". I'd say it depends on why you want to buy, if you're looking for an investment or hedge against inflation etc then probably best to stick to plain ol' bullion. In order to get your money back, or even make a profit you'd be relying on someone liking the coin for it's aesthetic qualities as much as you do/did. It might take several days or weeks to find a buyer willing to pay a price you'd be happy with. 

On the other hand, if you're buying as a curio, or objet d'art; something that will sit on your desk where you will see it everyday and bring you pleasure then yeah it probably is worth it - after all you can't put a price on happiness!

Really depends on how you look at it - for examle is going out for a meal at a fancy restaurant worth it? From a purely sustenance point of view then no, not really. You can buy a kilo of rice or spuds and cook them up at home for pennies and you will be nurished and satiated. But going to a swanky restaurent is more than just paying through the nose for a tiny amount of food on a massive plate, it's about the experience, it's a talking point, a memory, an excuse to spend a couple of hours in pleasant surroundings with friends or family. Are those things worth the price? Absolutely.

I have one.... this...
Keep it for myself but if someone offered me a good price it would probably go..

Hi, I bought these 2020 burning fafnirs from Powercoin, a few years back, they sold for over £250 each, very beautiful dragons from Germania Mint, 100 of these painted ones in the world with COA's number 1 and 3. So put 2 of them together in a single, double coin capsule and you are looking at over £500 worth of black ruthenium ( 6th most rare metal in the world's crust)  painted silver bullion coins. They are very artistic, are they worth it? It depends on the eye of the beholder.
I don't know that many of our 20000 TSF members would buy them. A small gold coin for £500 is what the majority seems to want to buy at the moment.