IRA-Approved Silver Bars

The IRS requires silver bars to be at least .999 fine (99.9% pure) to qualify for a precious metals IRA. Some bars, like those from the Royal Canadian Mint, exceed this at .9999 fine (99.99% pure). Sterling silver (.925) and coin silver (.900) do NOT qualify.

While not strictly required by the IRS, most IRA custodians prefer or require bars with assay certificates for verification purposes. Bars from major refiners like PAMP Suisse and Valcambi typically include assay cards. This also helps with future resale value.

10 oz and 100 oz bars are most popular for Silver IRAs due to their lower premiums per ounce compared to 1 oz bars. However, 1 oz bars offer more flexibility for partial liquidation. Consider 100 oz bars if you're investing $10,000+ in silver, or 10 oz bars for smaller amounts.

It depends. Hand-poured bars must still meet the .999 purity requirement and come from an approved refiner. Many generic hand-poured bars don't qualify because they lack proper refiner hallmarks or assay certificates. Stick to bars from major refiners for IRA purposes.

No. IRS rules prohibit contributing personally-held precious metals to an IRA. All silver bars must be purchased new through your IRA custodian and shipped directly to an approved depository. You cannot transfer bars from your home safe into your Silver IRA.

COMEX approval means bars meet futures exchange standards for delivery (typically 1000 oz bars). IRA approval requires .999 purity and proper refiner certification. Most COMEX-approved refiners produce IRA-eligible bars, but COMEX bars themselves are too large for typical IRAs.