4 Best Silver Coin Types To Buy

Above, 2023 Silver Britannia coins. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Buying precious metals (gold, silver and platinum) can be a great investment that also diversifies one's investment portfolio.

With that in mind, MSN posted an article on the four best silver coin types to buy in order to make money.

They begin with:

Silver coins are highly prized by dealers and collectors — not just because of their silver content, but also because they tend to be scarcer than coins minted with copper, nickel, zinc and other metals. The most valuable silver coins sell for millions of dollars, but even ones worth much less than that can turn a tidy profit.

Finding rare and valuable silver coins outside of dealers and auctions can be a challenge because there aren’t a ton in circulation anymore. The Coinage Act of 1965, signed by President Lyndon Johnson, eliminated 90% silver coins from circulation, according to a blog from ModernCointMart. That law mainly affected U.S. dimes and quarters. Half-dollar coins were still made with 40% silver from 1965 to 1970, but after 1970 no more circulating U.S. coins were made with silver.

You can find still find valuable silver coins on the collectibles market, however, and they might be a good investment. If nothing else, adding silver coins can help diversify your portfolio and give you a hedge against inflation and economic volatility. When spot price eventually rises, provided you have a low dollar cost average regarding your silver stack, you can sell for a profit.

If you are interested in buying silver coins, here are four basic types as listed by the United States Gold Bureau (USGB).

To read more, go here. 

Winchester Shotguns That Made History

Above, the Winchester Model 12 I bought last April. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

For those who are Winchester shotgun enthusiasts, here's something for you.

MSN has posted a slideshow of Winchester's shotguns that made history.

The Winchester Model 12 pump-action shotgun is the one I have. I bought it earlier this year and, according to its serial number, it was made in 1919.

They begin it with:

Today, Winchester’s shotguns are prized by collectors and hunters. The Model 1897 and Model 12 remain popular among cowboy action shooters and vintage gun enthusiasts, while the Model 1300 and 1400 are still used by hunters and sport shooters worldwide.

In many ways, Winchester’s shotguns are the story of American ingenuity and innovation, a testament to the company’s enduring influence on firearm design and manufacturing.

It’s a legacy that will continue to inspire and influence gun enthusiasts for generations.

To see the slideshow, go here. 

What Happens When The TSA Intercepts Firearms At US Airports

Above, the TSA checkpoint at the Albuquerque Sunport. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Bringing a firearm through airport security (TSA) can be a major problem if one does not follow proper procedures. I've never had the need to bring a gun while traveling by air.

It is legal to bring a firearm in one's luggage as long as it is locked unloaded in a hard-sided case and declared with the baggage officer.

But not following the procedures can get one heavily fined, arrested and the gun confiscated.

Here's the official TSA procedures for transporting firearms and ammunition.

MSN posted an article on what happens. 

They start with:

As US travelers take advantage of their Second Amendment rights, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) frequently discovers firearms at security checkpoints throughout the US. By not declaring their firearms, travelers can potentially face legal issues for not following the proper procedures.

While the TSA does not confiscate or seize firearms if a passenger attempts to bring one through the security checkpoint or packs one in their carry-on luggage, the TSA will contact local law enforcement to take possession of the firearm safely. The passenger may be arrested or issued a citation, depending on local laws.

To read the full article, go here. 

Fernando Valenzuela Hospitalized

Legendary Dodger pitcher Fernando Valenzuela has been hospitalized for an unspecific illness. He has stepped down from the broadcasting booth to concentrate on his health.

I have a signed baseball from Valenzuela.

Much has been speculated about the nature of Valenzuela's illness. One person speculated that it is liver cancer.

A recent photo of Valenzuela with former Dodger pitcher Sandy Koufax has been posted. His weight loss is very much evident. 

Above, Fernando Valenzuela and Sandy Koufax at Dodger Stadium
 on August 10, 2024. Photo Orlando Ramirez/Getty Images.

Whatever the nature of his illness may be, best wishes and prayers are extended for his full recovery. 

To read more, go here.

These Are 8 Cruise Ships to Avoid

Above, Norwegian Cruise Line made it into one the best category. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

If one is planning to take a cruise to somewhere, it may do well to check out a posting by MSN.com on which cruise ships to avoid.

Along with the above, they also show which cruise ships that are best. Fortunately, in this category, the two cruise lines I most recently cruised with, Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line made it. 

They begin with:

Before you book your next vacation and think of making it on a cruise ship, read this. Taking the wrong cruise can leave you miserable, because after all, once you're on that ship, there's no way out. A-Z Animals looked at rankings of cruise lines from the consumer reviews website. The site ranked the worst and the best cruises based on guest reviews. Passengers rated categories such as the cabin, food and drink, itinerary, entertainment, and facilities. The results considered the reviews to calculate cruises with the worst scores.

Click through the gallery above to see which eight cruises were ranked the absolute worst by passengers. Then read on to find out which cruises were ranked as some of the best to take. 

To see the gallery, go here. 

$15/Hour Minimum Wage Hurting Colorado Rafting Outfitters

Above, yours truly rafting the Snake River near Jackson, Wyoming in 2019.

Another factor of inflation these days (that doesn't get as much coverage as it should) is the raising of minimum wages in different states. 

Everyone is aware of the high prices at fast food restaurants due to higher minimum wages, but there are some businesses that are suffering which are not on anyone's radar.

One such business is the river rafting industry in Colorado. Colorado is a blue state dominated by radical Democrats.

A Colorado rafting company recently lost a court battle over the state's $15.00/hour minimum wage.

MSN.com reported:

GRANITE, Colo. (KKTV) -A recent federal court ruling could increase the cost of rafting on the Arkansas River. Colorado river outfitters, including Arkansas Valley Adventures, have lost their legal fight to avoid paying state-mandated minimum wages to their raft guides.

The decision, handed down on April 30 by the federal court, upheld a $15 per hour minimum wage, following an appeal to the 10th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals last year.

The outfitters argued that the wage increase would escalate their operating costs, potentially leading to higher prices for customers and fewer available trips. The government contends that higher wages will boost worker productivity and improve service quality.

“You know, we’re going to pay you twice as much but guess what, we don’t have any work. It wouldn’t help us. We didn’t want that. We wanted an exemption. We wanted to understand our situation, and that just didn’t happen,” said Arkansas Valley Adventures owner Duke Bradford.

A $15.00/hour minimum wage sounds lovely, but that won't do anyone any good if companies have to cut back or even go out of business. The river rafting industry is especially hurt since it is seasonal.

To read more, go here. 

In-N-Out Burger Expanding To New Mexico

Above, inside the Lake Havasu City In-N-Out restaurant. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

I posted about this last year, but this is from MSN.com. It is about In-N-Out Burger coming to New Mexico.  

Right now, the only places with decent burgers are Big Ass Burgers in Thoreau, New Mexico and Blake's Lotaburger at several locations in Gallup.

MSN.com starts with:

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (KRQE) – In-N-Out Burger is officially coming to New Mexico, the California-based fast-food burger chain announced Tuesday.

In-N-Out Burger said that it will be serving burgers, fries, and shakes in Albuquerque in 2027. “We can’t wait to have smiling associates serving customers quality burgers, fries and shakes in such a unique, beautiful state,” Lynsi Snyder, president and owner of In-N-Out Burger, wrote in part on In-N-Out Burger’s Facebook post.

In-N-Out Burger did not say where the restaurants would be located in Albuquerque, stating in a news release that “Initial development plans are underway for locations in Albuquerque to open by 2027, with future expansion to other cities in the years beyond.”

In-N-Out Burger said it will utilize a company distribution facility in Colorado Springs to get its products to New Mexico.

Currently, New Mexicans have to travel out of state to eat at In-N-Out Burger. The closest locations are in Colorado, Arizona, Utah and Texas. The chain also has locations in California, Nevada and Oregon.

To read more, go here. 

Highest-rated Breweries In New Mexico

Above, yours truly having an Alien Amber Ale at Sierra Blanca Brewing.

During my recent trip to Fort Sumner, New Mexico, I made a stop at Sierra Blanca Brewing in Moriarty.

While there, I had a glass of my favorite beer, Alien Amber Ale. For souvenirs, I picked up a glass growler and a t-shirt. I wandered around a bit.

Above, Sierra Blanca Brewing in Moriarty, New Mexico. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

As it happens MSN.com has an article on the highest-rated breweries in New Mexico. Sierra Blanca Brewing (who brews Alien Amber Ale) made the list at number 13. 

They begin with:

(STACKER) – Cold beer, anyone? American beer drinkers have their fair share of options no matter where they might live.

Indeed, a market once dominated by a handful of major brands has become far more diverse since the craft beer scene expanded sixfold between 2008 and 2016. Independent production cooled off just a little in 2023 but still accounted for a whopping 23.4 million barrels of beer and craft beer’s overall market share by volume rose to 13.3%, according to the Brewers Association. For context, in 2013, there were 3,108 craft breweries in the U.S.—and as of 2023, there are 9,761, representing a 214% increase in just a decade. Cheers to that!

Why the ongoing obsession? Putting aside the fact that people simply love their brew, beer has emerged as a wildly versatile beverage category. Craft breweries explore beer to its fullest potential and tend to rank highly as a result.

In regard to New Mexico, they wrote:

To find some top spots near you, Stacker compiled a list of the highest-rated breweries in New Mexico using data from Tripadvisor. Tripadvisor ranks places using a combination of metrics, including overall rating, reviews, and number of page views. As a result, a business with a 5 out of 5 overall rating might rank lower than one with a 4 out of 5. Data is as of June 6, 2024.

To see the list, go here. 

13 Of The Greatest USA Made Rifles Ever Created

Above, the Winchester 1894 rifle made the list. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

American know-how in firearms over the years is well known.

There are some rifles that are considered iconic. MSN.com has posted a slideshow of the 13 greatest USA made rifles ever made.

The Winchester 1894 rifle made the list, which is what caught my attention. I have a pre-1964 made in 1962.

They begin it with:

From the echoes of frontier legends to the precision shots defining modern hunting and warfare, American-made rifles have carved their indelible mark on both history and innovation. These iconic firearms, ranging from the revolutionary lever-actions that tamed the Wild West to the bolt-actions and semi-automatics that have defended freedom across the globe, represent more than just tools of the trade; they symbolize the spirit of American ingenuity and resilience. Each rifle in our list has not only shaped the course of firearms technology but has also become a cherished piece of Americana, embodying stories of survival, adventure, and triumph.

As we explore the greatest USA-made rifles ever, we pay homage to the engineering marvels that have empowered generations of Americans in their pursuits, be it on the battlefield, the hunting ground, or the competitive arena.

To see the slideshow, go here. 

Ruined Vacations Due To 10-Year RV Rule

Above, The Beast at Mammoth Lakes. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Next year will mark ten years since I bought my 2015 Winnebago Minnie Winnie 22R. 

That's when I may face the notorious "ten-year rule" of some RV parks. I'm not concerned about it as my motorhome is in good shape and it is kept in a garage to protect it from the elements.

This is the topic of an article by MSN.

It begins with:

RV owners risk having their summer vacation ruined this year due to a rule that prevents RVs over 10 years old from parking in certain US parks.

Travelers who have had their vehicles for a while might want to do their research before they head out on a family adventure, as they may be denied a reservation.

Oftentimes safety issues are cited as the reason for the rule. Older vehicles can have a higher potential to develop problems such as leaks and electrical issues.

Some park managers are also trying to avoid their sites looking run down due to a build-up of older RVs, meaning the issue of aesthetics also comes into play.

To read the full article, go here. 

Are KOA Campgrounds Safe?

Above, the Cedar City (Utah) KOA Kampground. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

This subject puzzled me at first. I have camped in many KOA Kampgrounds around the country and have found them to be safe. I have never had a problem with any of them.

Still, the question is pertinent to people with children and if they are new to RV camping.

The topic is by MSN.com and it begins with:

Curious about the safety of KOA campgrounds? We’ve had many camping experiences at RV sites at KOA, and when it comes to KOA camping, we’re big fans.

For the best camping experience, it’s a good idea to be aware of a few of the most common KOA questions, which we’ll dive into deeper below. 

The next time that you’re looking for an affordable vacation option check out KOA resort campgrounds and any local KOA campgrounds, which are great ways to have a stress-free camping trip.

Not only do they typically offer deluxe cabins and fun nearby attractions, but they’re also located at the perfect place to be able to get in and get out quickly. 

To read more, go here. 

MSN: Morgan Silver Dollars That Can Break The Bank

Above, an 1883-O Morgan dollar graded AU. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

The Morgan silver dollar is my favorite coin to collect.

This started when I inherited several Morgan dollars that were minted at the Carson City mint. I sold them at a good profit (at the time) on eBay. I now regret doing so as those Carson City Morgan dollars have skyrocketed in value. Ah, well. Live and learn.

Since then, I have bought more Morgans. Those, I am definitely keeping.

MSN.com has posted an article on Morgan silver dollars that are the most valuable to collect. Most are way out of my reach price-wise.

The article begins with: 

Morgan silver dollars were 90 percent silver, one-dollar coins minted between 1878 and 1904, with a special one-off production in 1921 — but their history goes back a bit further.

The Comstock Lode, a massive silver discovery in 1859, flooded the U.S. market with silver and caused the value of silver coins to drop. As a result, in 1873, the Coinage Act stopped the production of silver coins in the United States. Eventually, the silver supply dropped, and the U.S. government passed the Bland-Allison Act to reinstate a silver coin in 1878 and appointed the task to U.S. Mint Director Henry Linderman.

Linderman held a competition for the design of a new silver dollar, which was won by English engraver, George Morgan. Morgan used his fiancee, schoolteacher Anna Williams, as the model for the head of Liberty on one side of the coin. The reverse shows an American eagle holding a clutch of arrows, with the words “United States One Dollar.” The new coins were called Morgan silver dollars after their designer. 

The History of the Production of Morgan Dollars

Before we can talk about the most valuable Morgan silver dollars, we wanted to give you a bit more insight into the production of these coins. They were made in five different U.S. Treasury locations, and each mint had its own special letter designation stamped on the coins. These locations were Carson City (“CC”), New Orleans (“O”), San Francisco (“S”), Denver (“D”) and Philadelphia (no mark).

To read more, go here. 

By the way, silver is back up over $22.00/toz. The current COMEX spot price for silver is $22.275/toz.

Some Kennedy Half-Dollars Are Worth a Lot of Money

Above, 1964 Kennedy half dollars and Morgan silver dollars. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

When I had a strongbox opened at a Gallup locksmith's, I found a treasure trove of coins and jewelry. I also found some junk, too. The strongbox hadn't been opened for over 22 years and I had no idea what was in it. It belonged to my dad and it just sat in the closet. 

Items inside included about 20 1964 Kennedy half dollars, some were in uncirculated condition. These contain 90% silver.

Why I bring this up is that MSN posted an article on the Kennedy half dollar, stating some are worth a lot of money. They particularly focus on the 1970 Kennedy half dollar in uncirculated condition. 

The article begins with:

A commemorative coin minted by the United States government, the Kennedy half-dollar is a piece of American history. Part of its allure is that it's everywhere. You can find Kennedy half-dollars worth $5 or $10 in circulation. And you can find Kennedy half-dollars worth much more if you find one with a better-than-average strike.

The Kennedy half-dollar was first minted in 1964, to memorialize President John F. Kennedy after his assassination. The obverse of the coin features a profile portrait of President Kennedy, while the reverse features the presidential seal. It was printed until 2004 and remains in active circulation.

Here's everything you need to know about the Kennedy half-dollar. 

To read the full article, go here. 

Most Valuable Morgan Silver Dollars

Above, a special one-off 1921 Morgan silver dollar. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Ever since I inherited some Morgan silver dollars from the Carson City Mint, they have become my favorite coins to collect. 

Since then, I buy Morgans whenever I spot a good deal, too good to pass up.

MSN has posted an article on the most valuable Morgan silver dollars. Before they get into those, they provide a history of the Morgans.

They start with:

Morgan silver dollars were 90 percent silver, one-dollar coins minted between 1878 and 1904, with a special one-off production in 1921 — but their history goes back a bit further.

The Comstock Lode, a massive silver discovery in 1859, flooded the U.S. market with silver and caused the value of silver coins to drop. As a result, in 1873, the Coinage Act stopped the production of silver coins in the United States. Eventually, the silver supply dropped, and the U.S. government passed the Bland-Allison Act to reinstate a silver coin in 1878 and appointed the task to U.S. Mint Director Henry Linderman.

Linderman held a competition for the design of a new silver dollar, which was won by English engraver, George Morgan. Morgan used his fiancee, schoolteacher Anna Williams, as the model for the head of Liberty on one side of the coin. The reverse shows an American eagle holding a clutch of arrows, with the words “United States One Dollar.” The new coins were called Morgan silver dollars after their designer.

The History of the Production of Morgan Dollars

Before we can talk about the most valuable Morgan silver dollars, we wanted to give you a bit more insight into the production of these coins. They were made in five different U.S. Treasury locations, and each mint had its own special letter designation stamped on the coins. These locations were Carson City (“CC”), New Orleans (“O”), San Francisco (“S”), Denver (“D”) and Philadelphia (no mark).

Although Morgan silver dollars are still legal tender in the U.S., they are worth far more than just $1 to coin collectors. Today, Morgans range considerably in value. Their price depends on several factors, including the number of coins minted in a specific year, the city where they were made and the coin’s current condition, with uncirculated coins being more rare and valuable.

So which ones are worth the most valuable collectibles? These are some of the most valuable Morgan silver dollars, according to USA Coin Book and Coin HelpU.

To see which are the most valuable Morgan silver dollars, go here. 

Gold and Silver Higher As China Lifts COVID Restrictions

Above, 1964 JFK half dollars containing 90% silver. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

For those of us holding gold and silver (along with other precious metals) saw today that China's lifting of COVID restrictions gave precious metals futures a boost in value.

From MSN:

METALS STOCKS

Gold and silver futures settled sharply higher on Tuesday as the U.S. dollar slipped. Copper also jumped on hopes that China lifting COVID-19 restrictions to reopen its economy will boost demand of industrial metals and support the country’s real-estate sector.

Price action

• Gold for February delivery rose $18.90, or 1.1%, to settle at $1,823.10 per ounce on Comex. It had traded as high as $1,841.90 in early dealings, the highest intraday level for a most-active contract since June 27, according to FactSet data.
• March silver rose 30 cents, or 1.2%, to end at $24.22 per ounce. 

To read more, go here. 

The 16 Most Amazing Attractions In Honolulu

Above, a view of surfers and Diamond Head from Waikiki Beach. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Whether or not one has ever been to Honolulu, Hawaii, they are sure to miss some attractions there by either not knowing about them or by time constraints.

If one falls under the former catergory, MSN has posted a list of 16 "most amazing" attractions in Honolulu.

They begin it with:

Honolulu is the most populous island and capital of Hawaii which is known for its fabulous natural setting, the city is filled with gorgeous beaches and adventurous hikes. Aside from the breathtaking views, Honolulu has a pretty vibrant food scene, with Pipikaula and delicious Laulau topping the charts. Start the day with a hike on the diamond head for spectacular views at the top or take a moment of solace on Waikiki beach, the place is pretty much worth every moment.

In Honolulu you will find some beautiful attractions that you just cannot miss! Places like Uss Arizona Memorial, Check Out The Bernice Pauahi Bishop Museum, and Waikiki Beach and many more. Continue scrolling to know more.

To read more, go here. 

I-10 Morongo Travel Center Opens In Cabazon

Above, the new Morongo travel center joins the Cabazon dinosaurs off Interstate 10. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Whenever I think of Cabazon, California off Interstate 10, I think first of the two dinosaurs that were built in the 1960s and Hadley Fruit Orchards (and their date shakes).

Now, the Morongo tribe has opened a new travel center in Cabazon.

MSN posted:

CABAZON, CA — The Morongo Band of Mission Indians has opened its Interstate 10 Morongo Travel Center in Cabazon that includes a 32-pump gas station, dog park, car wash, slot machines, a convenience store and other offerings.

Located behind Morongo’s existing gas station at Morongo Trail and Thunder Road, the new 6.7-acre Travel Center also has a bank of electric vehicle charging stations, eight Tesla superchargers, RV dumping, propane fills, six high-speed diesel truck pumps and diesel exhaust fluid.

To read more, go here. 

RV Life Drawbacks

Above, The Beast at the USA RV Park in Gallup, New Mexico. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Considering buying a RV?

Before doing so, it might be worthwhile to rent one first and see if it is something you'd want to purchase.

Aside from that, there are other things to consider. MSN.com has listed 14 what they call "drawbacks" to the RV lifestyle.

They begin with:

Is RV life right for you? 

I’ve been a full-time RVer for over three years now, and it’s definitely the life for me. The idea of going back to living in a stationary house makes me restless. And I know a lot of people are exploring RV travel for the first time this summer, imagining a vacation filled with drive-through destinations or a family National Park road trip. 

But if you go into RV life thinking it’s going to be Instagram perfection, you’re likely to wind up frustrated and disappointed. I am a firm believer that if you know the downsides, you’ll have a better chance of enjoying RV life and coming back to it again. The truth is, you’re going to hate some parts even if you love RV life overall. There are definitely things I still hate.

So let me share some things I’ve learned over the past few years — here are 14 reasons you might hate RV life.

To see what the 14 reasons are, go here.