Read the bar
Check the refiner, weight, units, fineness and serial number when present. Wholesale LBMA Good Delivery silver has a minimum fineness of 999; retail products do not all share the same wholesale status or specifications.
Calculate fine-silver value
Fine weight = gross metal weight × fineness ÷ 1,000. A 1 kg bar marked 999 contains 999 g of fine silver. At 4 per fine gram, its metal value is 3,996. If the sale price is 4,500, ask what makes up the 504 difference: premium, tax, delivery or other costs.
Plan for ownership and resale
A large bar cannot be sold in fractions without changing the product. Smaller units may offer flexibility at a higher premium. Check storage, documentation and written buyback deductions before purchasing.
Sources and references
Educational content by Thahby; figures are illustrative. Content reviewed: 1 October 2026.