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Go to your local coin store and buy them a 1 ounce silver bullion coin instead.

https://online.kitco.com/bullion/completelist_USD.html

Buy a coin issued by a government. There are lots of rip-off "Rounds" and "collectable" coins out there waiting to take advantage of the uneducated coin buyer.

For gifts a good condition US silver dollar from the local coin shop is easy and recognizable to the receiver.

You might also want to look here for the really shiny stuff:

http://www.usmint.gov/mint_programs/american_eagles/?action=...