How We Buy Silver: A Simple, Transparent Process
When you are ready, call or text Mike. You will speak with the owner, not a call center, and you will have a ballpark price before anyone drives anywhere.
Text Photos for a Quote Call (773) 490-9828
The best way to reach Mike is by text at (773) 490-9828. Send pictures and details about your items for an instant, no-obligation quote.
- BBB A+ Accredited
- Weighed in front of you
- Quote before we meet
Step by Step
| Step | What happens | What you need |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Send photos | Text pictures, hallmarks, and rough weights, or use the online quote form | Your phone |
| 2. Get a quote | Mike gives an approximate price based on today's spot price | Nothing |
| 3. Pick a place | Your home, our Northbrook office, or a public spot such as a McDonald's or Dunkin' near you | A time that suits you |
| 4. Watch the test | Items are tested and weighed in front of you | Your items and a photo ID |
| 5. Decide | Accept and get paid on the spot, or keep your items. No pressure either way | Your decision |
What We Ask of Every Seller
To keep every purchase lawful and traceable, we verify a government-issued photo ID, record the seller's name, the date, and a description of each item, and ask for proof of ownership when an item's history is unclear. We do not buy from anyone under 18. These records are kept confidentially and are never sold or shared except as the law requires.
Why Not a Pawn Shop or Jewelry Store?
You could take your silver to a pawn shop or a jewelry store, but you will most likely be offered a very low price. You could call around first, but you will usually hear, "You have to bring it in. I can't give you a price over the phone." We quote first, then meet.
We Pay Extra for Quality
Cook County Buyers wants your sterling silver and will try to beat any offer. We pay extra for high-quality makers such as Tiffany & Co., Christofle, Reed & Barton, Wallace Silversmiths, and Tuttle patterns including Hannah Hull, Onslow, and Triumph.
What We Pay
Cook County Buyers pays on a sliding scale based on the type and resale potential of the silver:
- Sterling flatware: minimum 65% of melt/spot value (reflecting refining costs).
- Coins and bars (.999 or recognized pure silver): up to 90% of market value.
- Designer silver jewelry or vintage Navajo jewelry: can be substantially higher, often well above 100% of melt value, priced on current resale/collector demand rather than metal content alone.
Rates are item-specific, can increase with larger quantities or higher-demand pieces, and are confirmed after in-person testing and weighing. Text photos and details to Mike at (773) 490-9828 for an estimate. Learn more in What Is My Silver Worth?
Read what Chicago silver sellers say about us, and see five mistakes to avoid when selling silver on our blog.
How we meet
Mike is available to meet days, evenings, and weekends. Please call (773) 490-9828 to schedule.
Cook County Buyers has a private office in Northbrook, IL, available by appointment only. Call, text, or send a description of your items through the quote form, and Mike will arrange a time to meet at the office. Or, if you prefer, Mike can meet you at a coffee shop or restaurant near you in Chicago or the suburbs.
Ready for a fair, no-pressure quote?
Text photos to (773) 490-9828 or contact Cook County Buyers.