Published June 11, 2026 • ScrapMetalBuyers.com

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): $1.80–$2.50/lb
• Red Brass (higher copper content): $2.00–$2.80/lb
• Dirty Brass (with solder, paint, or iron): $1.40–$1.90/lb
• Brass Shell Casings (once-fired, clean): $1.50–$2.20/lb
• Brass Rod/Bar (clean): $1.90–$2.60/lb
• Mixed Brass (unknown grade): $1.20–$1.70/lb

How to Tell Yellow Brass from Red Brass

The color difference is visible:

• Yellow Brass: Bright golden-yellow color. Typically 60–70% copper, 30–40% zinc. Common in plumbing fittings, valves, and decorative items.
• Red Brass: Darker, more reddish-gold color. Higher copper content (80–85%). Common in water meters, fire hydrant components, and high-pressure valves. Pays more due to 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)
• 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 (like antique fixtures, pendulums, or decorative pieces), the question of scrap vs. resale is real. Here's the framework:

• Scrap value of 235 lbs of yellow brass: ~$420–$590
• eBay/antique value depends entirely on the item. Unique or antique brass items can sell for 2–10x scrap value to collectors.
• Rule of thumb: 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.

Where to Sell Large Brass Lots

For 50+ lbs of brass, a dedicated buyer will pay more than a local yard. ScrapMetalBuyers.com buys all grades of brass in any quantity, with free pickup and same-day payment. Call 954-488-0700 for a quote.

FAQ

1. 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.

2. 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.

3. What about brass musical instruments?

Instruments in playable condition are worth far more on eBay or at a music store than as scrap. Even damaged instruments may be worth repairing. Only scrap instruments that are truly beyond repair.

4. 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.

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