Updated June 12, 2026 • ScrapMetalBuyers.com • All Guides
How Much Is Brass Scrap Worth Per Pound? (2026 Price Guide)
Brass is one of the most valuable common scrap metals, and it's found everywhere — plumbing fittings, valves, musical instruments, shell casings, and decorative items. Here's what different types of brass are worth and how to get the best price.
Brass Scrap Prices (2026)
Yellow brass (clean, no iron) pays $1.80–$2.50/lb. Red brass (higher copper content) pays $2.00–$2.80/lb. Dirty brass (with solder, paint, or iron) pays $1.40–$1.90/lb. Brass shell casings (once-fired, clean) pay $1.50–$2.20/lb. Brass rod and bar (clean) pays $1.90–$2.60/lb. Mixed brass (unknown grade) pays $1.20–$1.70/lb.
How to Tell Yellow Brass from Red Brass
Yellow brass has a bright golden-yellow color, typically 60–70% copper and 30–40% zinc, common in plumbing fittings, valves, and decorative items. Red brass has a darker, more reddish-gold color with higher copper content (80–85%), common in water meters, fire hydrant components, and high-pressure valves. Red brass pays more due to its higher copper content.
What Makes Brass "Dirty"?
Brass is classified as "dirty" when it contains solder (lead-tin solder is common on plumbing fittings), paint or coatings, iron or steel components attached (like steel bolts in brass valves), or rubber gaskets or plastic components. Removing these contaminants upgrades dirty brass to yellow brass, adding $0.30–$0.60/lb to your payout.
The 235 lb Brass Question: Scrap or eBay?
For large, unique brass items, the question of scrap vs. resale is real. The scrap value of 235 lbs of yellow brass is approximately $420–$590. The eBay or antique value depends entirely on the item — unique or antique brass items can sell for 2–10x scrap value to collectors. If the item is visually interesting, historically significant, or has a maker's mark, research it before scrapping. If it's just generic plumbing or industrial brass, scrap it.
💰 What ScrapMetalBuyers.com Pays for Brass Scrap
As of June 12, 2026 — Call 954-488-0700 to confirm current rates before delivery.| Brass Grade / Type | Market Range | SMB Drop-Off Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Yellow Brass (clean, no iron) | $1.80 – $2.50/lb | Up to $2.60/lb |
| Red Brass (high copper content) | $2.00 – $2.80/lb | Up to $2.90/lb |
| Dirty Brass (solder/paint/iron) | $1.40 – $1.90/lb | Up to $2.00/lb |
| Brass Shell Casings (clean) | $1.50 – $2.20/lb | Up to $2.30/lb |
| Brass Rod / Bar (clean) | $1.90 – $2.60/lb | Up to $2.70/lb |
ⓘ Drop-off rates apply when you deliver to a confirmed ScrapMetalBuyers.com U.S. location. Call 954-488-0700 to find your nearest drop-off point and lock in your price before you haul.
📍 Drop Off & Get Paid More
Did you know that sellers who deliver directly to one of our U.S. drop-off locations receive a premium above our standard pickup rate? We pass the logistics savings straight to you.
Drop-off locations are available across the United States. Contact us first so we can confirm the nearest location, verify your material, and lock in your price before you make the trip.
📞 Call 954-488-0700 to Find Your Drop-Off Location Get a Drop-Off Quote OnlineFrequently Asked Questions
How do I know if something is brass or bronze?
Both are copper alloys, but bronze contains tin instead of zinc. Bronze is typically darker and more brownish. Both are valuable scrap, but they're priced separately. When in doubt, your scrap yard can test it.
Are brass shell casings worth scrapping?
Yes. Once-fired brass shell casings are valuable scrap. However, they must be completely inert (no live primers or powder). Many ranges and gun shops collect brass casings for resale to reloaders, which often pays more than scrap value.
What about brass musical instruments?
Instruments in playable condition are worth far more on eBay or at a music store than as scrap. Only scrap instruments that are truly beyond repair.
Do I need to remove rubber gaskets from brass valves?
Yes, if possible. Rubber gaskets classify your brass as "dirty" and reduce the price. A few minutes with a screwdriver to remove gaskets and iron bolts can add $0.40+/lb to your payout.
What is the minimum brass quantity ScrapMetalBuyers.com buys?
We buy brass in any quantity. For lots under 50 lbs, deliver to a drop-off location for the best rate. For 100+ lbs, we offer free pickup anywhere in the U.S.
Does red brass always pay more than yellow brass?
Yes, because red brass has a higher copper content (80–85% vs. 60–70% for yellow brass). The higher the copper content, the higher the scrap value. Always separate red from yellow brass before selling.
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