Scratched Silver Bullion

[Junior]

Hey Gents,

All my silver bullion is either in individualized capsules or in tubes. For the most part, they appear to all be scratch free as I bought them sealed from the dealer. Something I have been wondering about though, what does a .999 fine silver bullion look like when it is covered in scratches from being handled? Does it resemble a brushed nickel finish as one might find on a faucet? Does it look like a one hundred year old coin with perhaps a bit of tarnish? Or does it look absolutely terrible like something run through a wood chipper?

If you happen to have one, photos are welcome.

Thanks in advance.

Edited December 17, 2021 by Junior

[Pete]

Being Canadian you may have some interest in ice hockey.
When the ice is repaired and looking smooth, the first thing the goalie does is cut it up.
There's your answer !!

Coins that are not shipped from the original mint in capsules tend to be supplied to dealers in tubes.
Whilst inside tubes, the highest points can sometimes rub a little and create minor scuff marks but the damage usually occurs when a "packer" tips them out for bagging individually.
They are bullion so why care ? I am sure some dealers take much more care than others though.
Some coins, especially British Britannias are shipped often in poor condition as if they have passed through a tumble dryer.
If a coin is dusty or showing a finger mark the temptation is to wipe it with a soft cloth.
95% of the time this will introduce very fine scratches observable more on a highly polished coin than a matt or frosted coin.
Silver is a soft metal so tiny grit particles which are harder ( Mohs scale ) will scratch the surface so easily.

[Junior]

I loved the ice hockey analogy! So because silver bullion is essentially pure, the softness of it doesn’t result in the look of a one hundred year old circulated coin like a .900 fine Morgan dollar for example. Due to the softness, many scratches just make it look like trash. Anyone have a photo of a pocket piece that perhaps resembles this look?