Scout;

In your writings, be careful when you quote numbers that are perhaps less than factual...

The gold:silver ratio is NOT "closer to 12" as U state. Bob actually uses(incorrectly) the posted figures from Wikepedia...which are referenced from scientific journals (which I have not checked out)...There appears to be WIDE disparity of opinion here..!

1. Bob states that no one says the ratio is 16:1, but I'm sure that some could have over the years...He just hasn't read all of the texts...historical and otherwise. Issac Newton actually set the monetary ratio at 15.5 in the 18th century but he didn't use modern methods and had no deep drilling rigs...so the ratio was probably set more based upon actual production, not natural occurance. jmho - not fact.

2. Bob quotes wikepedia as posting the lowest natural occuraance gold:silver ratio as 20...then says "Do the math"...When U do the math it actually works out closer to 18.75:1 NOT 20 ...Do the math yourself!

3. He omits to state that Wikepedia gives the production volumes for both silver and gold. The Gold:Silver ratio in terms of production is 23000tons:2800tons or...8.2 (Do the math) WILD!

It is the current production ratio that will determine the price ratio...(not really the relative abundance in the crust - since not all of the gold and silver in the crust is necesarily accessable.

Mr Moriarty certainly seems to have an agenda...but I believe that in the end, the market itself will win out, and the losers will be silenced. That day is not far away. I hope I'm on the screaming loud, cheering side...

lotus petals,

gildage