Panda Silver Prices All Over The Board...

This is probably the biggest problem that the fake coins/bars are causing collectors/stackers.
Even when you buy from a reputable seller and you are absolutely certain that what you have bought is genuine it makes it very difficult to sell because everyone prefers to buy from a recognised source and Not from individuals.
Unless you get ALL of your bullion certified (More Costs)the abundance of fakes on the market has eroded the confidence of buyers and you will find it rather difficult to sell the raw product that you have bought.

I collect (among other things) raw 1 oz. silver world bullion coins.
Many countries, years and many different price points.

I am SERIOUSLY considering purchasing a Sigma precious metal verifier just for my own use.

I'm not surprised the prices are the same, they get allot for these, and mintages are significantly higher than in the past. I will only buy one of each year and certified. They want 22-25 raw, you can get one slabbed for 34/35. Silver Panda's gave great returns to collectors over the years, that finally panned out over the last few years, the gold panda's really took off when China changed it's laws on owning gold. Many of the old low mintage silver panda's have varieties because of the two mints churning them out and expensive to collect, except for the 84-86 acquiring one of each is about $3000 or so, average you about $100 an oz. The mint does a good job and with the move to grams, I wonder if that will make designs better going forward or not.

As far as worrying about fake slabs, I don't. Although the Chinese do a good job with the design of these, the imperfections are many and unless your buying the rare perfect examples of these you can always compare your photo to the photo you see on the website who certifies these. I think sellers have learned they need good photo's of these or people shy away from them.

I bought some individual 2016 Pandas to give as gifts and remember the obverse all having scratches all in the same spot.

Fakes are really only a problem with these for the novice panda buyer.

I don't buy Pandas they ate extremely expensive here raw they go for $40 I can almost buy 2 ASE for that price, beautiful coin but not THAT beautiful

I made the mistake of paying $35 for one last year. So regret doing that.

Pandas will come back. Older certified are down right now, but will come back. China needs to reinvent the series IMO. Luckily I never bought any at the top of the market.

Still sitting on some 1/2oz silver from the 90s and quite a few from 2005 through 2008. At least 30 for each yr 2009 through 2013. I did eventually the sell the gold 2002 1/10 I had(picked for $100, sold for $1500), but missed the top of the market.

I also do recommend picking up the Panda guide. Its great reading.

I simply decided to get rid of my 2016 Panda for $20.