Scam-type explainer · General education
“Free Silver” & Bonus-Metal Promotions
Headline “free” metal offers that are quietly funded by a higher markup baked into the rest of your order.
General consumer education. This explainer describes an industry-wide tactic in the abstract. It does not attribute this behavior to any specific named company.
The mechanics
How this tactic works
- 01An ad promises thousands of dollars in “free silver” (or bonus metal) for opening or funding an account above a threshold.
- 02Nothing is truly free: the cost of the bonus is typically recovered through a wider spread or higher premium on the coins you actually buy.
- 03The large dollar figure creates urgency and a sense of a limited-time windfall, encouraging a fast, large purchase.
Spot it early
Warning signs to watch for
Red flags
- A big “free metal” number is the headline, but the per-coin pricing and spread are vague.
- The bonus requires a large minimum purchase or a tight deadline.
- The rep can’t (or won’t) show how the “free” metal is funded.
Protect yourself
How to avoid it
Do this
- Ignore the bonus and price the underlying order on its own: spot + premium, all-in.
- Compare that all-in price to a transparent bullion dealer with no promotion.
- Ask directly: “What is my total cost, and what is the spread, with and without the promotion?”
The contrast
What a legitimate dealer does instead
Signs of a real dealer
- Competes on transparent, low premiums rather than headline giveaways.
- Will show your all-in cost so you can compare it against spot.
- Doesn’t tie a “bonus” to a rushed, oversized purchase.
Want a repeatable process? Walk any dealer through our 5-minute verification method. If you think you've encountered this tactic, here's how to report it.
A transparent alternative
Prefer a dealer that avoids these tactics
Our featured partner competes on transparency rather than the tactics above.
Newmont Capital Group
Our top-rated featured partner: BBB A+ rated, transparent spot-based pricing, IRS-approved depository partners, and a no-obligation buyback commitment. Full details on newmontcapitalgroup.com.
- BBB A+ rating
- Transparent, spot-based pricing
- Delaware Depository, Brinks & Loomis storage
- No-obligation buyback commitment
- No-Fees-For-Life program on qualifying accounts
Reader questions
Frequently asked questions
Is “free silver” ever a good deal?
Educational content only. This content is for general education only and is not financial, tax, legal, or investment advice. Investing in precious metals carries risk, including loss of principal. Consult a licensed professional before making decisions.
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