Today's Brass Scrap Price — August 01, 2026

Metal / GradePrice Per PoundTrend
Yellow Brass (plumbing, valves)$1.80–$2.20/lb↑
Red Brass (high copper)$2.00–$2.40/lb↑
Cartridge Brass (shell casings)$1.90–$2.30/lb→
Brass Radiators (clean, no steel)$1.40–$1.80/lb→
Brass Radiators (with steel)$0.90–$1.20/lb→
Brass Turnings (clean, dry)$1.60–$2.00/lb→
Mixed Brass (unsorted)$1.40–$1.70/lb→
Brass Pipe/Fittings$1.75–$2.15/lb↑
Naval Brass$1.85–$2.25/lb→
Muntz Metal (60/40 brass)$1.70–$2.10/lb→

Understanding Brass Scrap Grades and Prices

Brass is a copper-zinc alloy, and its scrap value is directly tied to its copper content. Higher copper content = higher price. Red brass (85% copper) is worth more than yellow brass (67% copper), which is worth more than mixed or contaminated brass.

Yellow Brass vs Red Brass

Yellow brass (C260, C270, C280) is the most common form of brass scrap. It comes from plumbing fixtures, valves, fittings, electrical components, and decorative hardware. The copper content is typically 65–70%, giving it strong scrap value.

Red brass (C230, C260 with higher copper) has 80–85% copper content and commands a premium price. It comes from fire hydrants, water meters, pump bodies, and marine hardware. If you have red brass, sort it separately — it's worth significantly more.

Brass Radiators

Brass/copper radiators from older vehicles and industrial equipment are a high-value scrap item. Clean radiators (brass fins, copper tubes, no steel tanks) fetch the best prices. Radiators with steel end tanks are worth less because the steel must be separated.

Where Brass Scrap Comes From

We buy brass from plumbing contractors, HVAC companies, demolition crews, auto salvage yards, ammunition manufacturers, brass foundries, and industrial plant shutdowns. Large quantities of brass valves, fittings, and pipe from commercial building demolitions are our specialty.

How to Maximize Your Brass Scrap Value

  • Separate red from yellow: Red brass (darker, more orange) is worth 15–25% more per pound.
  • Remove steel and iron: Steel bolts, iron pipe nipples, and steel brackets reduce value.
  • Keep radiators clean: Remove plastic tanks and steel end caps before selling.
  • Dry your turnings: Brass turnings with coolant oil are downgraded significantly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the current rate for brass scrap?
Today (August 01, 2026), yellow brass pays $1.80–$2.20/lb and red brass pays $2.00–$2.40/lb. Brass radiators run $1.40–$1.80/lb clean. Call (754) 310-2984 for a live quote on your specific material.
How do I know if my brass is yellow or red?
Red brass is darker and more orange/brown in color. Yellow brass is brighter and more golden. Red brass has higher copper content (80–85%) vs yellow brass (65–70%). If unsure, we can identify it when we inspect your load.
Do you buy brass shell casings?
Yes — we buy cartridge brass (spent shell casings) in any quantity. Cartridge brass pays $1.90–$2.30/lb. Must be clean and free of live rounds.
What is the minimum quantity to sell brass?
We buy any quantity, but for free pickup we prefer loads of 200 lbs or more. For smaller quantities, you can bring it to us or we can arrange pickup as part of a larger mixed metal load.
Why is my brass price lower than the quote I expected?
Brass price can be reduced if there is steel, iron, plastic, or other contamination. Wet or oily turnings are also downgraded. Clean, sorted brass always gets the best price.

Get a Live Quote Now

Call us with your material and quantity — we'll give you a price in minutes. Free pickup for loads over 500 lbs anywhere in the US.

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