In term of recycling copper wire as #1, # 2 and # 3 copper wire?

Question

what is #1, # 2 and # 3 copper wire?

Answer 1

It may be size, #1 being largest.  

See the table at:

Answer 2

There are standards of purity and hence conductivity of copper wires. The purest copper is able to handle far more current.

When recycling, of course we could treat it all a being of the lowest purity. But if we know that a sizable amount of copper wire is of a higher purity, then it becomes practical to segregate it and recycle it as high purity copper.

Answer 3

If you are a scrapper, meaning you intend to take scrap wire to a scrap yard to sell it, #1 is like taking new wire there and selling it. It should appear new with no rubber on it at all. #3 is dirty as h**l and will bring the minimal dollar amount. #2 is in between, and more oftem than not if you do not have #1, you will get #3 price. I beleive that #1 is now bringing close to 1.00 a pound, Copper adds up fast too.