A silver coin is a coin made from silver, usually with a small amount of another metal to create a durable alloy so the coin will not break down in circulation. Such coins can be given an absolute face value that holds true no matter how much silver is trading for at a given point in time, and they can also be valued by weight. Silver coins are an example of store of value, allowing people to hold on to value so they can spend it at a future point, and they are one of the oldest forms of currency in existence, as determined at a number of archaeological sites.
Silver coins made be made publicly by a mint and they can also be created on private order. They may be poured, stamped, pressed, or produced by other means. The design is developed with very precise tolerances so each coin is the same size and shape, with very small variations between coins. A silver coin typically bears a stamp providing information about the origins, the year it was produced, and the weight or face value of the coin. Coins can also be decorated with the heads of sovereigns and historic figures, as well as ornamental devices like coats of arms.
Introducing currency was a significant development in many human societies. Exchanging coin allows people to easily transport value, as a single silver coin can be more valuable than bulk commodities used in trade. In addition, it provides a standardized method of payment and allows for exchange of value between communities and nations that might otherwise have nothing to trade or offer each other. When silver coin was initially introduced, public figures often set the value and could profit on exchange rates.
In addition to having stated face values and intrinsic values as a result of the metal they contain, many silver coins have collectible or historic value. Production runs are often limited, allowing people to trade coins on the basis of rarity and features, rather than just how much silver is present in each coin. Many governments produce limited runs of silver coin to raise funds and promote investment in precious metals among citizens; people can buy silver coins when they cannot invest in gold and silver certificates.
People interested in buying silver coins can usually find a number of listings in collectible catalogs in addition to examining coins offered for sale in shops specializing in currency. Current silver prices are a consideration when buying coins, and people should also make sure, if they are buying collectible coins, that the coins are independently valued and verified. If a forgery is purchased, it will not be worth nearly as much as the original.