Hunt Brothers Público Deposited
It is estimated that about 200 million ounces of silver are privately owned. In 1976 the Hunts held at least 20 million ounces. In 1979 they added another 23 million ounces. The brothers attempted to corner the silver market in 1980. The increase in the price of silver raised the bullion value of many U.S. coins above the numismatic value. Large quantities of coins with limited collector value were dumped on a rising market. The brothers failed to make their margin and the value of silver dropped. Although many dealers made good profits as prices rose, many had substantial losses as prices dropped.
Ancient coins from the Hunt brothers collections were sold at auction by Sotheby's in 1990. Much of the collection was formed through dealer Bruce McNall.