Scrap silver value

Silver is traded in Switzerland in three main purities: 999‰ (fine silver, used for bars and investment coins), 925‰ (sterling silver, the fine jewellery standard) and 800‰ (historically used for cutlery, coins and antique objects). Each purity yields a different scrap value, calculated by multiplying weight by purity and the LBMA spot price in CHF.

Calculation formula: Value CHF = Weight (g) × Purity × Silver spot price (CHF/g). Example: 150 g of 800‰ cutlery with a spot price of CHF 0.94/g = CHF 150 × 0.800 × 0.94 = CHF 112.80. The actual buying price offered by a dealer is then adjusted downward based on their operating margin.

In Switzerland, silver is not VAT-exempt (unlike investment gold). Sales of silver objects between private individuals are however exempt from capital gains tax if the silver has been held for more than five years. Professional sellers must apply the standard VAT rate (8.1%) on their sales.