How much is scrap copper worth per pound?

With COMEX copper near $6.59/lb in mid-September 2026, yards typically pay about $5.11 to $5.74/lb for bare bright, $5.11 to $5.42 for #1, and $4.47 to $5.11 for #2. Quotes vary by location.

What is bare bright copper?

Bare bright is clean, uncoated, unalloyed copper wire (usually 16 gauge or thicker) with a shiny surface and no paint, solder, or heavy oxidation. It pays the highest scrap rate.

Scrap copper calculator

Estimate yard payouts for wire, tubing, and insulated cable. Reference spot as of Sep 18, 2026.

COMEX-linked spot: $6.59/lb ( ≈ €13.37/kg )

Yard payouts are usually 70% to 90% of spot depending on grade. This tool applies typical recovery factors. For a full grade guide, read scrap copper prices by grade.

Weight (kg)

Scrap grade

Estimated yard value

€0.00

Estimate only. Call your local yard for a firm quote.

Bare bright

Clean uncoated wire, typically 16 gauge or thicker. Highest payout, often around $5.11 to $5.74/lb at current spot.

#1 copper

Clean pipe and solids without heavy paint or solder joints. Slightly below bare bright.

#2 copper

Paint, solder, or oxidation present. Still valuable, but yards discount for processing.

Insulated wire

Priced on recoverable copper content. Thick THHN pays more than light fixture wire.