Nickel Silver

Nickel Silver, also known as German silver, is a non-precious alloy composed mainly of copper, with the addition of nickel and zinc. Despite its silvery appearance, it contains no silver. Its name comes solely from its visual resemblance to silver metal.

This material is commonly used in the manufacture of cutlery, musical instruments, medals, and decorative objects. In numismatics, nickel silver has occasionally been used for low-denomination coins or commemorative medals, especially when the appearance of silver is desired but the cost of precious metal must be avoided.

Due to its lack of intrinsic value, nickel silver is not accepted in precious metals investment markets and plays no role in the composition of physical gold or silver portfolios.