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Frequently Asked Questions | Apex Gold & Silver — Winston-Salem’s Trusted Coin & Precious Metals Dealer

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about selling scrap gold, gold bullion, silver coins, and precious metals to Apex Gold & Silver. Free evaluations — no obligation — paid on the spot.

Gold purity karat guide infographic

Understanding Gold Purity & Karats

The karat stamp on your jewelry tells us the gold content — and purity determines the price. 24K is pure gold, 18K is 75% gold, 14K is 58.3%, and 10K is 41.7%. We test every piece right in front of you so you always know exactly how your price is calculated.

Scrap Gold — What We Buy & How It Works

What types of scrap gold do you buy?

We buy all forms of scrap gold including gold jewelry (rings, necklaces, bracelets, earrings, chains, pendants), broken or damaged gold pieces, gold watches, dental gold (crowns, bridges, inlays), gold coins, gold bullion bars, gold nuggets, and gold electronic components. If it contains gold, we want to see it — condition does not matter.

How do you determine how much my scrap gold is worth?

Your scrap gold value is calculated using three factors: (1) the current live spot price of gold, (2) the purity measured in karats (24K, 22K, 18K, 14K, 10K), and (3) the exact weight in grams or troy ounces. We use certified digital scales and XRF testing to verify purity, and we show you every step of the process.

What do the karat markings on my gold mean?

Karat indicates the gold content. 24K gold is 99.9% pure. 18K is 75% pure. 14K is 58.3% pure. 10K is 41.7% pure — the minimum legal standard for gold jewelry in the US. The higher the karat, the more your gold is worth per gram. We buy all karats from 8K to 24K.

How is scrap gold weighed and tested?

We weigh your gold using certified digital scales accurate to 0.01 grams. Purity is tested using acid testing and XRF (X-ray fluorescence) analysis — a non-destructive test giving an exact elemental reading. You are welcome to watch the entire process.

Do I need an appointment to sell my scrap gold?

No appointment is necessary — walk-ins are welcome during business hours. For large collections, we recommend calling ahead to ensure we have sufficient time and cash on hand.

Will you buy gold that is tangled, broken, or missing stones?

Absolutely. Condition does not affect the value of the gold content. Broken chains, bent rings, pieces missing stones, and even single earrings are all welcome. Only the weight and purity matter.


Apex Gold Silver coin shop inventory Winston-Salem

We Buy All Major Gold & Silver Bullion

From American Gold Eagles and Silver Maples to 90% junk silver and gold bars — if it’s genuine precious metal, we want it. Our team authenticates every piece on the spot using professional XRF and weight verification equipment.

Gold & Silver Bullion — Coins and Bars

What gold bullion coins and bars do you buy?

We purchase American Gold Eagles (1 oz, 1/2 oz, 1/4 oz, 1/10 oz), American Gold Buffalos, Canadian Gold Maple Leafs, South African Krugerrands, Austrian Philharmonics, Chinese Gold Pandas, and gold bars from PAMP Suisse, Credit Suisse, Valcambi, and the Perth Mint. We also buy pre-1933 US gold coins.

What silver bullion do you buy?

We buy American Silver Eagles, Canadian Silver Maple Leafs, Silver Krugerrands, Austrian Silver Philharmonics, silver rounds, and silver bars in any size. We also purchase 90% junk silver — US coins minted before 1965, including dimes, quarters, half dollars, Morgan and Peace dollars.

How are bullion prices determined?

Bullion prices are based on the live spot price of gold or silver at the time of the transaction, as quoted on the COMEX futures market. We pay a percentage of spot price depending on the product type, quantity, and market conditions. Call or visit us for a current quote.

Do you buy numismatic or collectible coins?

Yes. We purchase rare US coins, key-date coins, proof sets, mint sets, and foreign coins. Collectible coins may be worth significantly more than their melt value depending on rarity, grade, and collector demand.

How do you verify that bullion is genuine?

We use weight verification, dimensional measurement, XRF spectroscopy, Sigma Metalytics precious metal verifiers, and visual inspection by experienced staff. All testing is performed in front of you at no charge.


Apex Gold Silver store Winston-Salem NC

Transparent Pricing — Cash on the Spot

At Apex Gold & Silver you watch every step. We weigh and test your items right in front of you, explain exactly how your price is calculated, and pay you cash immediately — no delays, no consignment, no pressure.

Pricing, Payment & Process

How much of the spot price do you pay?

We strive to offer the most competitive prices in the area. For scrap gold we typically pay 90–95% of the melt value depending on karat and quantity. For gold bullion coins, we pay based on current market demand and the specific product. The best way to get an exact quote is to visit or call us directly.

How do you pay? Can I get cash?

Yes — we pay cash for most transactions. We also offer payment by check or bank wire for larger transactions. Payment is made immediately on the spot after we agree on a price. No waiting period, no consignment, no delayed payment.

Is there a minimum or maximum amount I can sell?

There is no minimum — we will buy a single gold ring or a single silver coin. For very large transactions, we recommend calling ahead to confirm availability of funds and schedule a convenient time.

What identification do I need to bring?

A valid government-issued photo ID is required for all transactions — required by law under anti-money laundering regulations. Acceptable IDs include a driver’s license, state ID, or passport.

Is there any fee or cost to get an appraisal?

No. Evaluations, testing, and quotes are completely free with no obligation. We encourage you to bring your items in for a free assessment even if you are just curious about their value.


Gold & Silver Prices & Market Questions

What is the spot price of gold and silver?

The spot price is the current market price for one troy ounce of pure gold or silver, traded on global commodity exchanges such as the COMEX in New York. Spot prices fluctuate continuously during market hours based on supply and demand, economic data, and geopolitical events.

What is a troy ounce and how is it different from a regular ounce?

A troy ounce equals 31.1035 grams, while a standard avoirdupois ounce equals 28.35 grams. When gold prices are quoted in the news, they always refer to troy ounces.

What are the most valuable gold coins to sell?

American Gold Eagles and American Gold Buffalos typically carry the highest premiums due to their widespread recognition and government-backed purity guarantee. Pre-1933 US gold coins such as Saint-Gaudens Double Eagles can command significant numismatic premiums above melt value.

Do you buy platinum or palladium?

Yes, we also purchase platinum and palladium in bullion coins, bars, and jewelry. Contact us for current prices.


Ready to Sell Your Gold or Silver?

Visit Apex Gold & Silver for a free, no-obligation appraisal. We pay cash on the spot at the most competitive rates in the area.