Silver is typically given as the second prize, but these tattoos are number one in our book. Silver is one of the most valuable elements on the planet and can be found in the Earth’s crust in its purest form. Silver is the most electrically and thermally conductive metal, as well as the most reflective. Silver has been used since prehistoric times and is one of the seven metals of antiquity—which also include gold, copper, tin, lead, iron and mercury. Silver was once more valuable than gold in certain parts of the world, as silver is more reactive therefore making native silver more rare.

There’s plenty of symbolism in silver, aside from just representing second place. In folklore, it’s said that a silver-cast bullet was the only weapon that could vanquish a werewolf. It’s also often synonymous with the moon, as gold is with the sun. There have also been numerous “silver” characters in popular culture, particularly comic books, notably Marvel’s Quicksilver, Silver Sable, Silver Samurai and of course, the Fantastic Four’s Silver Surfer.

Take a look at 45 of our favorite silver tattoos in the gallery below. Then let us know your favorite piece from this list in the comments section on social media.