Why is the silver price today different from what I pay at a Canadian dealer?

Spot is a wholesale benchmark. Retail buyers pay spot plus dealer premiums, shipping, insurance, and any FX spread. When premiums run 10% to 30%, the checkout price can land near $85 to $95 per ounce in USD terms, with final CAD cost set by your dealer’s conversion rate.

What is a fair premium for silver coins and bars in Canada?

It varies by product and market conditions. Popular coins usually carry higher markups than larger bars. In today’s market, double-digit premiums are common on many items. Compare identical products, payment methods, and shipping options across dealers to find the best total cost per ounce.

Should I buy silver bullion now or wait for lower premiums?

No one can time it perfectly. A practical approach is to average in with small, regular purchases and buy extra on dips. Track the silver spot price and dealer premiums together. If premiums compress, you may improve your per-ounce cost. If spot rises, staged entries reduce regret.

Are ETFs better than physical silver for Canadians?

ETFs provide fast CAD execution, tight spreads, and no retail premiums, but they charge management fees and can have tracking gaps. Physical bullion avoids those fees and removes counterparty risk, yet carries premiums and logistics. Many investors use both, balancing liquidity with long-term, tangible exposure.

Global Market Insights

Silver Today, January 13: Spot Near $75, Premiums Stay Elevated

ByDanny Kontos January 13, 2026

The silver price today sits near $75 per ounce on spot quotes, yet Canadian buyers face higher all-in costs. Retail premiums of about 10% to 30% push real purchase prices closer to $85 to $95 per ounce before shipping and FX conversion. For investors in Canada, the key is tracking the silver spot price, dealer premiums, and USD/CAD. We break down what moves silver coin premiums, how to buy silver bullion more efficiently, and which signals matter for near-term sentiment.