Letter Re: Silver Barter Coin Options for Canadians

Sir:
I was wondering if you could tell me if it would be wise to buy pre-’65 [United States] silver coins, as I live in Canada. Do you think people would understand their value here? Also, any idea where I would get them? I am not having much luck with Internet searches. Thanks for your time. – Kirk in Canada

JWR Replies: To be sure that they are recognizable for barter, you should buy the equivalent Canadian mint circulated coins. These available at your local coin shop. Ask for well-worn “junk” coins that don’t have a numismatic premium price. For example: Canadian Quarters minted from 1920 to 1967 are 80% silver, and the ones that were minted in or before 1919 have 92.5% silver content.