Sunshine Mining Silver

The Sunshine Mining Company has one of the longest histories in the United States silver industry. Since it first began producing in 1904, the Sunshine Mine turned out an estimated 360 million ounces of silver, making it one of the largest-producing mines in the country. It was so successful that the name Sunshine became very closely associated with silver.

In 1972, a devastating fire occurred in the mine. In all, ninety-one men lost their lives, all of them working below ground. This fire is still considered one of the worst disasters in US mining history, and is the worst disaster on record in the state of Idaho, where the mine is located.

Production at the mine ceased in the year 2001. Several elements led to this closure; mine funds had been put into the business side of the venture, instead of discovering new veins of silver. In addition, silver prices were falling. Sadly, after a long and illustrious run as one of the most highly regarded mines in the country, the Sunshine Mine closed its doors and has not yet been re-opened. Significant repair work to the infrastructure of the mine is required before it can safely be operated

Sunshine Minting is an offshoot of Sunshine Mining. Due to the one-letter-difference in their names, these two companies often cause confusion amongst collectors and investors. Sunshine Minting is still producing high-quality silver bars. Sunshine silver bars which came from the original company can still be found in secondary markets such as pawn shops, private sales and internet sales. Sunshine silver bars which were produced before 2001 are highly attractive to collectors. They feature the mine’s hallmark, .999 fine silver, and the weight of the bar itself stamped onto the front. They are available in 10- and 100-ounce sizes, and make for wonderful collectibles as well as investments.

Sunshine Minting commands a very large presence in the bullion industry today. This offshoot of Sunshine Mining produces silver bullion of the highest quality. Sunshine silver bars are available in one, five, ten, fifty and one-hundred ounce sizes. The company also produces high-quality silver rounds in one, five and ten ounce sizes. Sunshine silver bars feature the company’s logo of an eagle, as well as the weight in troy ounces and the level of purity (.999 fine silver).

Sunshine silver bars are available directly from Sunshine Minting; there is no need to go through secondary markets. Prices vary depending on the most current silver prices. Due to their established history in the industry, the variety of sizes available, and the purity of the silver itself, Sunshine silver bars are a sound investment. They’re ideal for IRA investments. Smaller sizes make wonderful gifts. They’re also perfect for private collections and investments. Older bars from the original Sunshine Mining Company are especially collectible, and will delight anyone interested in the history of mining. As with any silver purchases, remember to protect your investment. A high-quality home safe is a smart precaution. Another option is to place your silver in a safety-deposit box at the bank.

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