APMEX (American Precious Metals Exchange) is one of the largest and most trusted online precious metals retailers in the U.S., known for its vast inventory, transparent pricing, and beginner-friendly buying process.
While many people turn to APMEX for gold or silver, the platform also offers a strong selection of copper bullion, which has become increasingly popular among both collectors and long-term investors.
How to Buy Copper With APMEX, Step-by-Step
Let’s walk through the process of buying copper from APMEX and what it required from investors:
1. Decide Why You're Buying Copper
Copper isn’t just for industrial use—it’s become a go-to option for cost-conscious investors, preppers, and collectors. APMEX caters to all of these groups with a wide range of copper items, from patriotic rounds to artistic bar designs.
Before you start browsing, it’s worth asking:
What's your goal? Long-term hedge, educational gift, or collectible?
What format do you prefer? Copper is available in 1 oz rounds, 1 lb bars, 5 lb bricks, and even larger options.
Do you plan to store or display it? Some products are designed more for aesthetics, others for stackability.
APMEX doesn’t sell copper as an IRA-eligible asset (since copper doesn’t qualify), so it’s more for personal collection or alternative investing—not retirement accounts.
- The Smart Investor Tip
Copper rounds and bars are relatively low-cost, but premiums can still vary. Focus on larger weights like 1 lb or 5 lb bars for better value per ounce compared to individual 1 oz rounds.
2. Create an APMEX Account
While you can browse and even purchase without an account, signing up with APMEX gives you:
Saved billing and shipping details
Access to past orders and tracking
Exclusive promotions, deals, and alerts
Faster checkout for future purchases
No documentation is required, and the process takes less than two minutes. If you're planning multiple purchases, having an account can streamline your experience.
- The Smart Investor Tip
Once you're signed in, turn on “Spot Price Alerts” to track copper prices in real-time. This can help you buy when prices dip or new deals go live.
3. Browse Copper Products by Type or Weight
APMEX makes it easy to explore its copper inventory. Visit the Copper Bullion section and filter by:
Product Type: Rounds, bars, bullets, and even cubes
Weight: Options range from 1 oz to 1 lb and 5 lb
Themes: Patriot-themed, historical figures, or pure bullion-style designs
Condition: New, circulated, or cull (lower quality)
All prices are updated in real-time based on the market and supply-demand. APMEX also displays volume discounts if you’re buying in bulk.
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Popular Copper Products on APMEX
Product | Description | Weight |
|---|---|---|
1 oz Copper Round – Morgan Dollar Design | Replica of the classic Morgan silver dollar | 1 oz |
1 lb Copper Bar – APMEX Logo | A sleek, stackable bar with .999 purity | 1 lb |
5 lb Copper Bar – Element Design | Large bar for bulk value | 5 lb |
1 oz Copper Bullet – .45 ACP | Novelty item shaped like a bullet | 1 oz |
1 oz Copper Round – Walking Liberty | Features a classic American coin design | 1 oz |
- The Smart Investor Tip
If you’re just starting out or buying in bulk, look for APMEX’s “Best Seller” or “On Sale” tags. These often mark the most competitively priced copper options at the moment.
4. Add to Cart and Secure Your Price
Once you’ve chosen your copper products, add them to your cart and proceed to checkout. APMEX locks in your price at the time of order—not when it ships—which is important in case copper prices fluctuate.
APMEX accepts several payment methods:
Wire transfer (best pricing for large orders)
Credit/debit cards (fast, but may include small premium)
eCheck/ACH (fast and discounted)
Bitcoin and other crypto (via BitPay)
PayPal (for select products)
Shipping rates vary, but orders over a certain threshold (usually $199+) qualify for free shipping.
5. Track Shipping and Delivery
APMEX ships from Oklahoma City and provides full insurance for every package. Copper orders are packed discreetly—no visible markings indicate precious metals inside.
Here’s what to expect:
Shipping time: 1–3 business days to process + delivery
Tracking number: Sent via email after dispatch
Signature: Required on high-value orders (not always for copper unless the order is large)
Delivery is fast and private, with all orders protected against damage or loss during transit.
Does APMEX Offer a Buyback Program for Copper?
Yes, APMEX does offer a buyback program for copper and other precious metals. Known as the APMEX AutoLock feature, it allows customers to sell their copper rounds or bars directly back to APMEX at competitive market rates.
To use the program, you must have at least $1,000 worth of items to sell. Once your quote is locked in, you’ll have one business day to ship your metals.
After inspection and approval, APMEX processes your payment via check, wire, or APMEX credit.
Other Useful APMEX Features for Precious Metal Buyers
APMEX offers more than just metals—it delivers tools and features that improve your overall investing experience:
Precious Metals Portfolio Tool – Track the value of your physical metals in real-time using their free portfolio dashboard.
Price Alerts & Notifications – Set custom alerts for copper, gold, and silver to buy at your preferred target price.
AutoInvest Program – Automate purchases of select products, including monthly recurring buys based on your preferences.
APMEX Club Loyalty Program – Get access to early deals, reduced shipping thresholds, and exclusive product drops based on your annual spending.
FAQ
Copper is more affordable and accessible, making it popular for new investors and collectors. However, it's more tied to industrial demand than traditional wealth preservation.
No, copper is not eligible for inclusion in a self-directed Precious Metals IRA. Only metals like gold, silver, platinum, and palladium meet IRS standards.
Yes, APMEX typically offers free shipping on orders over a certain threshold (usually $199), including copper products.
Yes, APMEX’s copper products are generally .999 fine copper, meaning they contain 99.9% pure copper.
Store copper in a dry, cool place to avoid tarnish or oxidation. Airtight containers or tubes can help maintain condition over time.
Yes, copper reacts with moisture and air, which can cause patina or green oxidation. While harmless, it may affect appearance.
Yes, APMEX carries themed and commemorative copper rounds that appeal to both collectors and enthusiasts.