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RECORD PROFITS, CASH FLOW AND PRODUCTION IN THIRD QUARTER

MARK PAN AMERICAN SILVER´S TENTH ANNIVERSARY

(all amounts in US dollars unless otherwise stated)

THIRD QUARTER HIGHLIGHTS

FINANCIAL RESULTS

Pan American Silver Corp. (NASDAQ: PAAS; TSX: PAA) reported consolidated revenue for the second quarter of $27.4 million, 131% greater than revenue in the third quarter of 2003 due to increased silver production, higher realized metal prices and higher sales from concentrate inventory. Net earnings for the quarter were $3.3 million compared to a net loss of $1.2 million in 2003. Cash flow from operating activities before changes to non-cash working capital increased to $7.0 million for the quarter.

Consolidated silver production for the third quarter was 3,173,000 ounces, a 45% increase over the third quarter of 2003 and the greatest quarterly production in the Company’s history. Steady-state production from Quiruvilca, Huaron and the pyrite stockpiles was complemented by the addition of production from the newly acquired Morococha mine as of July 1, 2004. Zinc production of 10,367 tonnes was 37% higher than in the third quarter of 2003 while lead production of 4,876 tonnes was 12.5% higher also due to the addition of Morococha production.

Consolidated cash costs in the third quarter rose from $3.87/oz to $4.07/oz and total costs rose from $4.39/oz to $5.09/oz due to an expected temporary increase in production costs at the La Colorada mine. Positive results from the new mine plan and more selective mining methods that have been implemented will begin to be realized in the fourth quarter.

Capital spending in the third quarter declined slightly to $3.1 million, excluding $36.2 million spent to acquire the Morococha mine. Exploration spending doubled to $1.2 million in the third quarter, primarily reflecting increased activity at the Manantial Espejo and San Vicente development projects.

For the nine months ended September 30, 2004, consolidated revenue totaled $63.5 million versus $32.3 million in the year-earlier period due to higher production and higher realized metal prices. Net earnings were $4.2 million versus a net loss of $4.0 million in the first nine months of 2003.

Consolidated silver production in the first nine months of 2004 was 8,058,443 ounces, a 24% increase over the same period in 2003 – on track for 11.5 million ounces in 2004. Zinc production of 24,890 tonnes and copper production of 2,376 tonnes were unchanged from 2003 levels. Lead production of 12,973 tonnes was 12.5% lower than in 2003 due to lower lead production at Huaron.

1500-625 HOWE STREET, VANCOUVER, BC CANADA V6C 2T6 . TEL 604.684.1175 FAX 604.684.0147 www.panamericansilver.com


Cash production costs for the first nine months of 2004 declined 3% to $4.01/oz, while total production costs rose 8% to $5.00 due to higher depreciation charges.

Working capital at September 30, 2004, including cash and short-term investments of $80.8 million, improved to $97.1 million, an increase of $15.2 million from December 31, 2003. The change in working capital stems from the receipt of $54.8 million in net proceeds from a share issuance in February, offset by the purchase of the Morococha mine completed during the quarter. Capital spending in the first nine months of 2004 was $9.7 million excluding the purchase of Morococha, down from $12.5 million a year earlier. Exploration spending increased from $1.6 million in the first three quarters of 2003 to $2.9 million in 2004, reflecting increased project development activity and drill programs to expand reserves at Huaron, San Vicente and now Morococha.

Ross Beaty, Chairman of Pan American said, "This is the eighth consecutive quarter that Pan American has improved its operating profit – and we set new records for earnings, cash flow and production. Our operations are strong, our development projects are progressing well and we have one of the best balance sheets in the industry with virtually no debt. We completed the acquisition of the low-cost Morococha silver mine last quarter and we are fully funded to start building another new mine within the next 12 months. Pan American Silver is in great shape today and we look forward to an even better future."

OPERATIONS AND DEVELOPMENT HIGHLIGHTS

PERU

The Quiruvilca mine continued its turn-around in the third quarter with production of 654,182 ounces of silver, up 2% over 2003 levels. Cash and total production costs dropped markedly, from $4.69/oz and $4.85/oz respectively to $3.34/oz in the current quarter. For the first nine months of the year the mine produced 1,892,383 ounces of silver at a cash cost of $3.27/oz, versus similar production at a cash cost of $5.31/oz in 2003. A new life-of-mine plan is now being developed at Quiruvilca based on the discovery of a major new vein structure announced in the second quarter.

Silver production at the Huaron mine remained steady in the third quarter at 1,064,476 ounces at a cash cost of $3.87/oz. Total production costs increased 16% over the prior-year period to $5.21/oz reflecting higher depreciation costs. Year-to-date the mine has produced 3,129,071 ounces at a cash cost of $3.93/oz, in line with 2003.

The Company concluded the acquisition of 84% of the Morococha Mine in the third quarter. Morococha produced 694,564 ounces of silver to Pan American’s account in the third quarter at a cash cost of $3.52/oz and a total cost of $4.85/oz. Over the long term the mine is expected to produce an average of 3.5 million ounces of silver annually (100%) at cash costs of less than $3.00/oz.

The Silver Stockpile Operation continued to generate excellent cash flow, producing 231,115 ounces of silver at a cash cost of $2.87/oz during the most recent quarter. Year to date the Company has produced 779,426 ounces from the silver stockpiles at a cash cost of $2.83/oz. The increased cash costs in 2004 reflect a sliding-scale refining charge, which increases as the silver price rises.

MEXICO

The La Colorada mine in Mexico increased its third quarter silver production to 441,959 ounces, up from 244,971 ounces in 2003. During the quarter a new mine plan was implemented to reduce dilution, to increase silver grades and to blend ore from clay-rich areas that has been difficult to process. This required more non-production underground development, resulting in high cash costs for the quarter, as planned. Ore grades are now 19% higher and new mining areas have been opened up with lower clay-content ore, increasing recoveries. Cash costs are now expected to decline and silver production to increase steadily. Silver production and cash costs are expected to improve further in 2005 once the sulphide zone returns to production post dewatering.

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Staffing has begun on the Alamo Dorado project in anticipation of a positive feasibility study, now due in February 2005. A power supply has been secured and the design process for the power line’s right-of-way has been initiated. Grindability tests have been completed and a pilot plant is now operating. Construction is expected to begin in 2005.

ARGENTINA

The 50% owned Manantial Espejo silver-gold joint venture also progressed significantly in the third quarter. The feasibility study currently underway now envisions a combined open-pit, underground operation to exploit the Maria and Karina Union deposits. Ramped pit designs along with annual production schedules and waste dump designs have been completed. As drilling continues to intersect new vein structures and to expand the two main systems on the property, another 5,000 m of infill and extension drilling has been initiated. Drilling has also begun to secure water for the mine and a number of baseline studies have been completed. Given the ongoing drilling programs, the joint venture will provide a proven and probable reserve with a mine plan upon completion of the feasibility study early in 2005.

BOLIVIA

At the San Vicente property, small-scale mining produced 86,704 ounces of silver in the third quarter of the year to Pan American’s account, while the Company continues to move forward with a feasibility study testing the viability of increasing production in 2005. EMUSA, a Bolivian mining company, continues to carry out small-scale contract mining under a site services agreement.

SILVER MARKETS

The silver price opened the quarter at $5.91/oz, breaking through the $6 level almost immediately and closing at $6.66/oz on September 30, 2004 for an average price of $6.47/oz, approximately the same as the average for the year. The silver price remains very volatile, but has continued to rebound from its second-quarter lows and was up 23% over year-end 2003 as of late October.

According to Ross Beaty: "Primary factors influencing the silver price today continue to be the US dollar, global industrial production – particularly in the electronics/electrical sector – and investment demand. The underlying demand/supply fundamentals for silver are sound. It is a great time to be one of the world’s major silver producers."

Pan American will host a conference call to discuss the results on Monday, November 1, 2004 at 11:00 a.m. Pacific time (2:00 p.m. Eastern time). North American participants please call toll-free 1-877-825-5811. International participants please dial 1-973-582-2767. The conference may also be accessed live from the investor relations section of the Pan American website at www.panamericansilver.com. To listen to a playback for one week after the call, dial 1-877-519-4471 and enter the pass code 5270686.

For More Information, please contact:

Brenda Radies, Vice-President Corporate Relations (604) 806-3158

www.panamericansilver.com

- End -

CAUTIONARY NOTE

Some of the statements in this news release are forward-looking statements, such as estimates of future production levels, expectations regarding mine production costs, expected trends in mineral prices and statements that describe Pan American's future plans, objectives or goals. Actual results and developments may differ materially from those contemplated by these statements depending on such factors as changes in general economic conditions and financial markets, changes in prices for silver and other metals , technological and operational hazards in Pan American's mining and mine development activities, uncertainties inherent in the calculation of mineral reserves, mineral resources and metal recoveries, the timing and availability of financing, governmental and other approvals, political unrest or instability in countries where Pan American is active, labor relations and other risk factors listed from time to time in Pan American’s Form 40-F

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Financial & Operating Highlights                        
                         
    Three months ended     Nine months ended  
    September 30,     September 30,  
    2004     2003     2004     2003  
                         
Consolidated Financial Highlights (in thousands of US dollars)                
                         
Net income (loss) for the period $ 3,289   $ (1,225)   $ 4,210   $ (3,972)  
Earnings (loss) per share   0.05     (0.02)     (0.11)     (0.08)  
Cash flow from operations before working                        
capital adjustments   6,989     302     12,287     344  
Capital spending **   39,327     3,501     45,889     12,513  
Exploration expense   1,213     600     2,878     1,588  
Cash and short-term investments   80,839     92,852     80,839     92,852  
Working capital $ 97,076   $ 87,054   $ 97,076   $ 87,054  
                         
** Includes the acquisition of the Morococha mine for $36,214                    
                         
Consolidated Metal Production                        
                         
Tonnes milled   420,912     282,650     1,023,475     871,689  
Silver metal - ounces   3,173,000     2,187,508     8,058,443     6,518,167  
Zinc metal - tonnes   10,367     7,578     24,890     24,759  
Lead metal - tonnes   4,876     4,332     12,973     14,836  
Copper metal - tonnes   1,106     841     2,376     2,625  
                         
Consolidated Cost per Ounce of Silver (net of by-product credits)              
                         
Total cash cost per ounce $ 4.07   $ 3.87   $ 4.01   $ 4.12  
Total production cost per ounce $ 5.09   $ 4.39   $ 5.00   $ 4.63  
                         
(In thousands of US dollars)                        
Direct operating costs plus value of metals lost                        
in smelting and refining $ 20,885   $ 11,467   $ 51,988   $ 35,612  
By-product credits   (8,312)     (3,950)     (20,502)     (11,508)  
Cash operating costs   12,573     7,517     31,486     24,104  
Depreciation, amortization & reclamation   3,127     1,013     7,782     2,987  
Production costs $ 15,700   $ 8,530   $ 39,268   $ 27,091  
                         
Ounces used in cost per ounce calculations   3,086,296     1,942,537     7,847,992     5,846,927  
                         
Average Metal Prices                        
Silver - London Fixing $ 6.46   $ 4.99   $ 6.47   $ 4.75  
Zinc - LME Cash Settlement per pound $ 0.44   $ 0.37   $ 0.47   $ 0.36  
Lead - LME Cash Settlement per pound $ 0.42   $ 0.23   $ 0.39   $ 0.22  
Copper - LME Cash Settlement per pound $ 1.29   $ 0.79   $ 1.27   $ 0.77  

4


Mine Operations Highlights   Three Months ended   Nine Months ended  
    September 30     September 30  
Huaron Mine   2004     2003     2004     2003  
                         
Tonnes milled   166,965     148,630     481,445     461,570  
Average silver grade - grams per tonne   228     246     230     256  
Average zinc grade - percent   3.13%     3.75%     3.22%     3.83%  
Silver - ounces   1,064,476     1,047,616   3,129,071   3,398,329  
Zinc - tonnes   3,856     4,598     11,877     14,881  
Lead - tonnes   2,825     3,247     8,677     11,277  
Copper - tonnes   491     362     1,250     1,050  
                         
Net smelter return per tonne $ 57.32   $ 46.45   $ 59.14   $ 44.96  
Cost per tonne   41.95     41.70     43.92     41.09  
Margin (loss) per tonne $ 15.37   $ 4.75   $ 15.22   $ 3.87  
                         
Total cash cost per ounce $ 3.87   $ 3.78   $ 3.93   $ 3.81  
Total production cost per ounce $ 5.21   $ 4.49   $ 5.25   $ 4.49  
                         
(In thousands of US dollars)                        
Direct operating costs & value of metals lost                        
in smelting and refining $ 7,666   $ 6,516   $ 22,990   $ 20,059  
By-product credits   (3,543)     (2,560)     (10,694)     (7,118)  
Cash operating costs   4,123     3,956     12,295     12,941  
Depreciation, amortization and reclamation   1,423     748     4,138     2,322  
Production costs $ 5,546   $ 4,704   $ 16,433   $ 15,263  
                         
Ounces for cost per ounce calculations   1,064,476     1,047,616   3,129,071   3,398,329  
                         
Quiruvilca Mine                        
                         
Tonnes milled   98,625     106,930     284,590     352,199  
Average silver grade - grams per tonne   235     212     236     191  
Average zinc grade - percent   3.48%     3.17%     3.66%     3.17%  
Silver - ounces   654,182     641,747   1,892,383   1,875,775  
Zinc - tonnes   2,920     2,845     8,994     9,525  
Lead - tonnes   890     980     2,998     3,266  
Copper - tonnes   310     479     800     1,575  
                         
Net smelter return per tonne $ 61.65   $ 38.44   $ 62.84   $ 34.02  
Cost per tonne   42.45     38.89     42.97     38.92  
Margin (loss) per tonne $ 19.20   $ (0.45)   $ 19.87   $ (4.90)  
                         
Total cash cost per ounce $ 3.34   $ 4.69   $ 3.27   $ 5.31  
Total production cost per ounce $ 3.34   $ 4.85   $ 3.25   $ 5.46  
                         
(In thousands of US dollars)                        
Direct operating costs & value of metals lost                        
in smelting and refining $ 4,566   $ 4,402   $ 13,305   $ 14,350  
By-product credits   (2,383)     (1,390)     (7,111)     (4,391)  
Cash operating costs   2,182     3,012     6,194     9,960  
Capital spending expensed and carrying value adjustment   -     104     (48)     288  
Production costs $ 2,182   $ 3,115   $ 6,146   $ 10,247  
                         
Ounces for cost per ounce calculations   654,182     641,747   1,892,383   1,875,775  

5


    Three Months ended   Nine Months ended  
    September 30     September 30  
Morococha Mine*   2004     2003     2004     2003  
                         
Tonnes milled   112,580     -     112,580     -  
Average silver grade - grams per tonne   227     -     227     -  
Average zinc grade - percent   3.69%     -     3.69%     -  
Silver - ounces   694,564     -     694,564     -  
Zinc - tonnes   3,079     -     3,079     -  
Lead - tonnes   1,162     -     1,162     -  
Copper - tonnes   290     -     290     -  
                         
Net smelter return per tonne $ 54.53   $ -   $ 54.53   $ -  
Cost per tonne   38.38     -     38.38     -  
Margin (loss) per tonne $ 16.14   $ -   $ 16.14   $ -  
                         
Total cash cost per ounce $ 3.52   $ -   $ 3.52   $ -  
Total production cost per ounce $ 4.85   $ -   $ 4.85   $ -  
                         
In thousands of US dollars                        
Direct operating costs & value of metals lost                        
in smelting and refining $ 4,690   $ -   $ 4,690   $ -  
By-product credits   (2,246)     -     (2,246)     -  
Cash operating costs   2,444     -     2,444     -  
Capital spending expensed and carrying value adjustment   927     -     927     -  
Production costs $ 3,371   $ -   $ 3,371   $ -  
                         
Ounces for cost per ounce calculations   694,564     -     694,564     -  
                         
* Production and cost figures are for Pan American's share only. Pan American's ownership increased from 81% to 84% during the quarter.  
                         
La Colorada Mine                        
                         
Tonnes milled   34,822     27,090     126,211     57,920  
Average silver grade - grams per tonne   510     430     457     467  
Silver - ounces   441,959     244,971   1,352,549     671,240  
Zinc - tonnes   -     135     122     353  
Lead - tonnes   -     105     136     293  
                         
Total cash cost per ounce $ 7.15   $ -   $ 6.17   $ -  
Total production cost per ounce $ 8.57   $ -   $ 7.86   $ -  
                         
(In thousands of US dollars)                        
Direct operating costs & value of metals lost                        
in smelting and refining $ 3,299   $ -   $ 8,801   $ -  
By-product credits   (140)           (450)        
Cash operating costs   3,159     -     8,351     -  
Depreciation, amortization and reclamation   629     -     2,274     -  
Production costs $ 3,789   $ -   $ 10,625   $ -  
                         
Ounces for cost per ounce calculations   441,959     -   1,352,549     -  

6


    Three Months ended   Nine Months ended  
    September 30     September 30  
Pyrite Stockpile Sales   2004     2003     2004     2003  
                         
Tonnes sold   19,214     20,197     64,050     47,041  
Average silver grade - grams per tonne   374     391     378     379  
Silver ounces   231,115     253,174     779,426     572,823  
                         
Net smelter return per tonne $ 44.23   $ 35.55   $ 44.76   $ 33.08  
Cost per tonne   1.03     0.56     0.64     0.60  
Margin (loss) per tonne $ 43.20   $ 34.99   $ 44.12   $ 32.48  
                         
Total cash cost per ounce $ 2.87   $ 2.17   $ 2.83   $ 2.10  
Total production cost per ounce $ 3.51   $ 2.81   $ 3.46   $ 2.76  
                         
(In thousands of US dollars)                        
Value of metals lost in smelting and refining $ 664   $ 549   $ 2,202   $ 1,203  
By-product credits   -     -     -     -  
Cash operating costs   664     549     2,202     1,203  
Depreciation, amortization and reclamation   147     162     491     377  
Production costs $ 811   $ 711   $ 2,693   $ 1,580  
                         
Ounces for cost per ounce calculations   231,115     253,174     779,426     572,823  
                         
San Vicente Mine**                        
                         
Tonnes milled   7,920     -     18,649     -  
Average silver grade - grams per tonne   389     -     408     -  
Average zinc grade - percent   7.48%     -     5.28%     -  
Silver - ounces   86,704     -     210,451     -  
Zinc - tonnes   512     -     817     -  
Copper - tonnes   15     -     36     -  
**
  
Pan American does not include San Vicente's production in its cost per ounce calculations. The production statistics represent Pan American's 50% interest in the mine's silver production.

7


 

PAN AMERICAN SILVER CORP.

Consolidated Balance Sheets (in thousands of US dollars)

 

  September 30   December 31  
    2004     2003  
   

(Unaudited)

       
             
ASSETS            
Current            
   Cash and cash equivalents $ 17,862   $ 14,191  
   Short-term investments   62,977     74,938  
   Accounts receivable   16,948     7,545  
   Inventories   8,809     6,612  
   Prepaid expenses   3,599     1,289  
Total Current Assets   110,195     104,575  
Mineral property, plant and equipment - notes 3 and 4   102,315     83,574  
Investment and non-producing properties - note 5   121,323     83,873  
Direct smelting ore   3,289     3,901  
Other assets   4,826     3,960  
Total Assets $ 341,948   $ 279,883  
             
LIABILITIES            
Current            
   Accounts payable and accrued liabilities $ 11,435   $ 10,525  
   Advances for metal shipments   1,244     4,536  
   Current portion of bank loans and capital lease   14     2,639  
   Current portion of other non-current liabilities   426     4,948  
Total Current Liabilities   13,119     22,648  
Deferred revenue   754     865  
Bank loans and capital lease   332     10,803  
Liability component of convertible debentures   167     19,116  
Provision for asset retirement obligation and reclamation   29,796     21,192  
Provision for future income tax   30,073     19,035  
Non-controlling interest   1,734     -  
Severance indemnities and commitments   2,640     2,126  
Total Liabilities   78,615     95,785  
             
SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY            
Share capital            
   Authorized: 100,000,000 common shares with no par value            
   Issued:            
      December 31, 2003 - 53,009,851 common shares            
      September 30, 2004 - 66,752,572 common shares   380,404     225,154  
Equity component of convertible debentures   701     66,735  
Additional paid in capital   9,874     12,752  
Deficit   (127,646)     (120,543)  
Total Shareholders' Equity   263,333     184,098  
Total Liabilities and Shareholders' Equity $ 341,948   $ 279,883  

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements

8


 

PAN AMERICAN SILVER CORP.

Consolidated Statements of Operations

(Unaudited - in thousands of US dollars, except per share amounts)

 

    Three months ended     Nine months ended  
    September 30,     September 30,  
    2004     2003     2004     2003  
          (Note 2)           (Note 2)  
                         
Revenue $ 27,409   $ 11,890   $ 63,510   $ 32,265  
Expenses                        
   Operating   18,526     10,200     46,225     28,962  
   General and administration   934     565     2,939     1,548  
   Depreciation and amortization   3,033     432     7,186     1,365  
   Stock-based compensation   518     835     1,642     2,036  
   Reclamation   302     75     905     231  
   Exploration and development   1,213     600     2,878     1,588  
   Interest   66     678     823     1,015  
    24,592     13,385     62,598     36,745  
                         
                         
Income (loss) from operations   2,817     (1,495)     912     (4,480)  
                         
Gain on sale of concessions   -     -     3,583     -  
Debt settlement expenses   (53)     -     (1,364)     -  
Non-controlling interest   (320)     -     (320)     -  
Interest and other income (note 7)   845     270     1,399     508  
                         
Net income (loss) for the period $ 3,289   $ (1,225)   $ 4,210   $ (3,972)  
Adjustments:                        
Charges relating to conversion of convertible                        
debentures   -     -     (8,464)     -  
Convertible debentures issue costs   -     (3,000)     -     (3,000)  
Accretion of convertible debentures   -     (975)     (2,838)     (975)  
Adjusted net income (loss) attributable to                        
common shareholders $ 3,289   $ (5,200)   $ (7,092)   $ (7,947)  
                         
Earnings (loss) per share - Basic and Fully Diluted $ 0.05   $ (0.10)   $ (0.11)   $ (0.16)  
                         
Weighted average number of shares outstanding -                        
Basic   66,660     52,307     61,947     51,030  
Weighted average number of shares outstanding -                        
Fully Diluted   72,213     67,990     67,499     66,714  

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements

9


 

PAN AMERICAN SILVER CORP.

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows 

(Unaudited - in thousands of US dollars)

 

  Three months ended     Nine months ended  
    September 30,     September 30,  
    2004     2003     2004     2003  
          (Note 2)           (Note 2)  
                         
Operating activities                        
Net income (loss) for the period $ 3,289   $ (1,225)   $ 4,210   $ (3,972)  
Reclamation expenditures   (327)     -     (919)     -  
Gain on sale of assets   -     (165)     (3,583)     (165)  
Items not involving cash                        
   Depreciation and amortization   3,033     432     7,186     1,365  
   Minority interest   320     -     320     -  
   Interest accretion on convertible debentures   -     -     366     -  
   Stock-based compensation   518     835     1,642     2,036  
   Debt settlement expenses   -     -     1,208     -  
   Compensation expense   -     -     245     -  
   Asset retirement and reclamation accretion   302     75     905     231  
   Operating cost provisions   (146)     350     707     849  
   Changes in non-cash working capital items (note 8)   (6,576)     (804)     (11,772)     (3,069)  
    413     (502)     515     (2,725)  
                         
Financing activities                        
   Shares issued for cash   812     2,940     61,817     5,638  
   Shares issue costs   -     -     (180)     -  
   Convertible debentures   -     86,250     -     86,250  
   Convertible debentures issue costs         (2,993)     -     (3,000)  
   Convertible debentures payments   (22)     -     (13,542)     -  
   Capital lease repayment   -     (75)     (75)     (150)  
   Proceeds from bank loans   -     -     -     8,000  
   Repayment of bank loans   -     (406)     (13,021)     (1,344)  
    790     85,716     34,999     95,394  
                         
Investing activities                        
   Mineral property, plant and equipment expenditures   (2,679)     (3,006)     (8,687)     (11,644)  
   Investment and non-producing property expenditures   (434)     (492)     (988)     (869)  
   Acquisition of net assets of subsidiary (note 3)   (36,214)     -     (36,214)     -  
   Acquisition of cash of subsidiary   -     -     -     2,393  
   Proceeds from sale of assets   -     165     3,583     165  
   Proceeds from sale of marketable securities   2,007     -     12,463     -  
   Other   -     (180)     (2,000)     (60)  
    (37,320)     (3,513)     (31,843)     (10,015)  
                         
(Decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents                        
during the period   (36,117)     81,701     3,671     82,654  
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period   53,979     11,138     14,191     10,185  
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period $ 17,862   $ 92,839   $ 17,862   $ 92,839  
                         
Supplemental disclosure of non-cash financing and investing activities              
   Shares issued for compensation $ -   $ -   $ 245   $ -  
   Shares issued for acquisition of subsidiary   -     -     -     64,228  
   Shares issued for conversion of convertible debentures   -     -     88,848     -  

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements

10


 

PAN AMERICAN SILVER CORP.

     Consolidated Statements of Shareholders' Equity For the nine months ended September 30, 2004

 (Unaudited - in thousands of US dollars, except for shares)

 

                  Additional              
  Common shares   Convertible     Paid in              
  Shares     Amount   Debentures     Capital     Deficit     Total  
                                   
Balance, December 31, 2002 43,883,454   $ 161,108   $ -   $ 1,327   $ (106,943)   $ 55,492  
   Stock-based compensation -     -     -     2,871     -     2,871  
   Exercise of stock options 1,385,502     9,312     -     (1,471)     -     7,841  
   Exercise of share purchase warrants 100,943     509     -     -     -     509  
   Issued on acquisition of Corner Bay                                  
      Silver Inc. 7,636,659     54,203     -     -     -     54,203  
   Fair value of stock options granted -     -     -     1,136     -     1,136  
   Fair value of share purchase warrants -     -     -     8,889     -     8,889  
   Issue of convertible debentures -     -     63,201     -     -     63,201  
   Accretion of convertible debentures -     -     3,534     -     (3,534)     -  
   Convertible debentures issue costs -     -     -     -     (3,272)     (3,272)  
   Issued as compensation 3,293     22     -     -     -     22  
   Net loss for the year -     -     -     -     (6,794)     (6,794)  
                                   
Balance, December 31, 2003 53,009,851     225,154     66,735     12,752     (120,543)     184,098  
   Stock-based compensation -     -     -     1,642     -     1,642  
   Exercise of stock options 717,695     9,313     -     (4,415)     -     4,898  
   Exercise of share purchase warrants 540,026     2,024     -     (105)     -     1,919  
   Shares issued for cash 3,333,333     55,000     -     -     -     55,000  
   Shares issue costs -     (180)     -     -     -     (180)  
   Shares issued on conversion of                                  
         convertible debentures 9,135,043     88,848     (68,883)     -     (8,464)     11,501  
   Issued as compensation 16,624     245     -     -     -     245  
   Accretion of convertible debentures -     -     2,849     -     (2,849)     -  
   Net income for the period -     -     -     -     4,210     4,210  
Balance, September 30, 2004 66,752,572   $ 380,404   $ 701   $ 9,874   $ (127,646)   $ 263,333  

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements

11


Pan American Silver Corp.

Notes to consolidated financial statements

As at September 30, 2004 and 2003 and for the three and nine month periods then ended

(Tabular amounts are in thousands of US dollars, except for shares, price per share and per share amounts (Unaudited)

1.     DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS AND NATURE OF OPERATIONS

Pan American Silver Corp (the "Company") is engaged in silver mining and related activities, including exploration, extraction, processing, refining and reclamation. The Company has mining operations in Peru, Mexico and Bolivia, project development activities in Argentina, Mexico and Bolivia, and exploration activities in South America.

The Company completed the acquisition of the Morococha mining assets in central Peru (Note 3) with the effective date July 1, 2004.

2.     SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

These unaudited interim consolidated financial statements are expressed in United States dollars and are prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in Canada ("Canadian GAAP"), which are more fully described in the annual audited consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2003 which is included in the Company’s 2003 Annual Report. These statements do not include all of the disclosures required by Canadian GAAP for annual financial statements. Certain comparative figures have been reclassified to conform to the current presentation.

In management’s opinion, all adjustments necessary for fair presentation have been included in these financial statements.

a) Stock-based compensation

 

During the fourth quarter 2003 the Company changed its accounting policy, retroactive to January 1, 2002,

inaccordance with recommendation of CICA 3870, "Stock-based Compensation and Other Stock-based

Payments". Under the amended standards of this Section, the fair value of all stock-based awards granted

are estimated using the Black-Scholes model and are recorded in operations over their vesting periods.

Previously, the Company used the intrinsic value method for valuing stock-based compensation awards

granted to employees, directors and officers where compensation expense was recognized for the excess, if

any, of the quoted market price of the Company’s common shares over the common share exercise price on

the day that options were granted. In addition, the Company provided note disclosure of pro forma net loss

and pro forma loss per share as if the fair value based method had been used to account for share purchase

options granted to employees, directors and officers after January 1, 2002.

 

Using the fair value method for stock-based compensation, the Company recorded an additional charge to

earnings of $1,642,000 for the nine months ended September 30, 2004 (nine months ended September 30,

2003 - $2,036,000) for stock options granted to employees, directors and officers. The fair value of the stock

options granted during the nine months ended September 30, 2004 was determined using an option pricing

model assuming no dividends were paid, a weighted average volatility of the Company’s share price of 58 per

cent, weighted average expected life of 3.5 years and weighted average annual risk free rate of 4.03 per cent.

 

b) Asset retirement obligation

 

During the fourth quarter of 2003, the Company changed its accounting policy on a retroactive basis with

respect to accounting and reporting for obligations associated with the

 

12


Pan American Silver Corp.

Notes to consolidated financial statements

As at September 30, 2004 and 2003 and for the three and nine month periods then ended

(Tabular amounts are in thousands of US dollars, except for shares, price per share and per share amounts (Unaudited)

 

retirement of long-lived assets that result from the acquisition, construction, development and the normal

operation of long-lived assets. The Company adopted CICA 3110 "Asset Retirement Obligations" whereby

the fair value of the liability is initially recorded and the carrying value of the related asset is increased by the

corresponding amount. The liability is accreted to its present value and the capitalized cost is amortized over

the useful life of the related asset. The change in accounting policy did not have a significant impact on

reported results of operations in any period presented.

 

 

3.     ACQUISITION OF MOROCOCHA MINING ASSETS

 

In July 2004, the Company acquired 92.0 per cent of the voting shares (80.8 per cent equity interest) of Compania Minera Argentum S.A. ("Argentum") and 100 per cent of the voting shares of Compania Minera Natividad ("Natividad") for cash of $35,276,000. Argentum and Natividad assets comprise of the Morococha mining assets, its working capital and surrounding mineral concessions located in central Peru. The Company subsequently acquired an additional 3.0 per cent equity interest in Argentum by acquiring 25 per cent its outstanding non-voting investment shares for a cash payment of $844,000.

 

The acquisition was accounted for by the purchase method of accounting and the accounts of Argentum and Natividad have been consolidated from July 1, 2004, which was the date the Company acquired effective control and ownership of the assets and liabilities of the Morococha mine.

 

The fair value of assets and liabilities acquired and the consideration paid are summarized as follows:

 

Current assets, including cash of $657 $ 7,945  
Plant and equipment   7,053  
Mineral properties   46,158  
    61,156  
Less:      
   Accounts payable and accrued liabilities   (3,215)  
   Non-controlling interest   (1,414)  
   Provision for asset retirement obligation and reclamation   (8,618)  
   Future income tax liability   (11,038)  
Total purchase price $ 36,871  
       
Consideration paid is as follow:      
      Cash $ 36,120  
      Acquisition costs   751  
  $ 36,871  

The final allocation of the consideration among the assets and liabilities of the Morococha Mine may vary from those shown above.

The purchase consideration for the mining assets of Argentum and Natividad exceeded the carrying value of the underlying assets for tax purposes by $28,176,000. In addition, the Company recorded a provision for future reclamation and restoration costs in amount of $8,618,000. These amounts have been applied to increase the carrying value of the mineral properties for accounting purposes. However, this did not increase the carrying value of the

13


Pan American Silver Corp.

Notes to consolidated financial statements

As at September 30, 2004 and 2003 and for the three and nine month periods then ended

(Tabular amounts are in thousands of US dollars, except for shares, price per share and per share amounts (Unaudited)

underlying assets for tax purposes and resulted in a temporary difference between accounting and tax value. The resulting estimated future income tax liability associated with this temporary difference of $11,038,000 was also applied to increase the carrying value of the mineral properties.

4.     MINERAL PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT

Mineral property, plant and equipment consist of:

    September 30, 2004      December 31, 2003   
        Accumulated                 Accumulated        
    Cost   Amortization     Net     Cost     Amortization     Net  
Mineral properties                                      
   Morococha mine, Peru $ 9,693   $ (636)   $ 9,057   $ -     $ -   $ -  
   La Colorada mine, Mexico   4,153     (303)     3,850     4,153     -     4,153  
   Huaron mine, Peru   1     -     1       1     -     1  
    13,847     (939)     12,908     4,154     -     4,154  
                                       
Plant and equipment                                      
   Morococha mine, Peru   7,053     (463)     6,590     -       -     -  
   La Colorada mine, Mexico   10,850     (792)     10,058     10,332     (360)     9,972  
   Huaron mine, Peru   14,417     (4,423)     9,994     14,417     (3,426)     10,991  
   Quiruvilca mine, Peru   15,410     (15,410)     -     15,410     (15,410)     -  
   Other   3,257     (559)     2,698     3,161     (503)     2,658  
    50,987     (21,647)     29,340     43,320     (19,699)     23,621  
                                       
Mine development and others                                      
   Morococha mine, Peru   502     (33)     469     -       -     -  
   La Colorada mine, Mexico   35,846     (2,615)     33,231     31,892     (1,113)     30,779  
   Huaron mine, Peru   36,333     (10,071)     26,262     32,820     (7,800)     25,020  
   Quiruvilca mine, Peru   10,151     (10,046)     105     10,046     (10,046)     -  
    82,832     (22,765)     60,067     74,758     (18,959)     55,799  
  $ 147,666   $ (45,351)   $ 102,315   $ 122,232   $ (38,658)   $ 83,574  

 

The Company completed the purchase of 83.78 per cent equity interest in Compania Minera Argentum S.A. and 100 per cent equity interest in Compania Minera Natividad for $36,871,000 (Note 3).

5.     INVESTMENT AND OTHER NON-PRODUCING PROPERTIES

Acquisition costs of mineral development properties together with costs directly related to mine development expenditures are deferred. Exploration expenditures on investment properties are charged to operations in the period they are incurred.

14


Pan American Silver Corp.

Notes to consolidated financial statements

As at September 30, 2004 and 2003 and for the three and nine month periods then ended

(Tabular amounts are in thousands of US dollars, except for shares, price per share and per share amounts (Unaudited)

Investment and non-producing properties consist of:

  September 30   December 31  
    2004     2003  
   Non-producing properties            
      Morococha, Peru $ 36,465   $ -  
      Alamo Dorado, Mexico   81,061     80,076  
      Manantial Espejo, Argentina   2,012     2,012  
    119,538     82,088  
             
   Investment properties            
      Waterloo, USA   1,000     1,000  
      Tres Cruces, Hog Heaven and others   785     785  
    1,785     1,785  
  $ 121,323   $ 83,873  
             
             
               

6.    SHARE CAPITAL

During the nine-month period ended September 30, 2004, the Company:

 

i)     issued 9,135,043 common shares at a value of $88,848,000 to the holders of $85,431,000 principal

amount, senior subordinated convertible debentures on conversion;

 

ii)     issued 3,333,333 common shares at $16.50 per share, for net proceeds of $54,820,000;

 

iii)     issued 717,695 common shares for proceeds of $4,898,000 in connection with the exercise of

employees and directors stock options;

 

iv)     issued 540,026 common shares for proceeds of $1,919,000 in connection with the exercise of share

purchase warrants; and

 

v)     issued 16,624 common shares at a value of $245,000 as compensation expense.

15


Pan American Silver Corp.

Notes to consolidated financial statements

As at September 30, 2004 and 2003 and for the three and nine month periods then ended

(Tabular amounts are in thousands of US dollars, except for shares, price per share and per share amounts (Unaudited)

The following table summarizes information concerning stock options outstanding as at September 30, 2004:

             

Options Outstanding

 

Options Exercisable

 
                  Weighted            
                  Average            
              Number   Remaining   Number   Weighted  
          Year   Outstanding as   Contractual   Exercisable as   Average  
Range of   of   at September   Life   at September   Exercise  
Exercise Prices   Expiry   30, 2004   (months)   30, 2004   Price  
                               
 $3.61   2004   36   .07   36   $ 3.61  
 $9.51   2005   48,077   5.03   48,077   $ 9.51  
$3.96 - $7.73   2006   124,666   19.42   88,000   $ 5.07  
$7.93 - $8.01   2007   385,000   37.83   351,000   $ 7.95  
$7.05 - $11.44   2008   494,231   45.44   169,231   $ 7.93  
$13.08 - $17.84   2009   382,000   53.31   142,000   $ 15.58  

 $3.96

  2010   217,000   74.53   217,000   $ 3.96  
              1,651,010   49.01   1,015,344   $ 9.01  

During the nine months ended September 30, 2004, the Company recognized $1,642,000 of stock compensation expense consisting of $831,000 for options issued in 2004 and $811,000 for options issued in 2003.

As at September 30, 2004 there were warrants outstanding to allow the holders to purchase 3,814,470 common shares of the Company at Cdn$12.00 per share, which expire on February 20, 2008.

Subsequent to September 30, 2004, the Company issued 7,000 common shares for proceeds of $63,600 pursuant to exercise of employee stock options.

7.     INTEREST AND OTHER INCOME

Interest and other income consist of:

    Three months     Nine months   
    ended      ended   
    September 30,     September 30,   
    2004     2003     2004     2003  
                         
Revenue from third party $ 554   $ 239   $ 780   $ 546  
Power credits   25     14     111     42  
Gain on sale of marketable securities   226     -     475     -  
Other revenue and expenses   40     17     33     (80)  
  $ 845   $ 270   $ 1,399   $ 508  

 

16


Pan American Silver Corp.

Notes to consolidated financial statements

As at September 30, 2004 and 2003 and for the three and nine month periods then ended

(Tabular amounts are in thousands of US dollars, except for shares, price per share and per share amounts (Unaudited)

8.     SUPPLEMENTAL CASH FLOW INFORMATION

    Three months ended     Nine months ended  
    September 30,     September 30,  
    2004     2003     2004     2003  
   Changes in non-cash working capital                        
      Short-term investments $ (475)   $ -   $ (475)   $ -  
      Accounts receivable   (2,270)     1,032     (5,047)     (695)  
      Inventories   (212)     229     803     (1,807)  
      Prepaids expenses   (1,260)     44     (1,241)     909  
      Accounts payable and accrued liabilities   (2,359)     (2,109)     (5,812)     (1,476)  
  $ (6,576)   $ (804)   $ (11,772)   $ (3,069)  
                         

 

9.    SEGMENTED INFORMATION

Substantially all of the Company’s operations are within the mining sector, conducted through operations in six countries. Due to differences between mining and exploration activities, the Company has a separate budgeting process and measures the results of operations and exploration activities independently. The Corporate office provides financial, human resources and technical support to its mining and exploration activities.

Segmented disclosures and enterprise-wide information are as follows:

   

For the three months ended September 30, 2004

 
        Corporate   Exploration &        
    Mining     Office   Development     Total  
   Revenue from external customers $ 27,409   $ -   $ -   $ 27,409  
   Net income (loss) for the period   5,004     (1,109)     (606)     3,289  
                         
    For the three months ended September 30, 2003  
   

 (Note 2)

 
                     
        Corporate    Exploration &        
    Mining     Office   Development     Total  
   Revenue from external customers $ 11,838   $ 52   $ -   $ 11,890  
   Net income (loss) for the period   655     (1,641)     (239)     (1,225)  
                         
   

For the nine months ended September 30, 2004

 
        Corporate   Exploration &        
    Mining     Office   Development     Total  
   Revenue from external customers $ 63,510   $ -   $ -   $ 63,510  
   Net income (loss) for the period   12,022     (5,758)     (2,054)     4,210  
   Segmented assets $ 178,991   $ 72,382   $ 90,575   $ 341,948  

17


Pan American Silver Corp.

Notes to consolidated financial statements

As at September 30, 2004 and 2003 and for the three and nine month periods then ended

(Tabular amounts are in thousands of US dollars, except for shares, price per share and per share amounts (Unaudited)

 

   

For the nine months ended September 30, 2003

 
   

 (Note 2) 

 
                     
        Corporate   Exploration &        
    Mining     Office   Development    

Total

 
Revenue from external customers $ 31,905   $ 360   $ -   $ 32,265  
Net income (loss) for the period   333     (3,457)     (848)     (3,972)  
Segmented assets $ 92,611   $ 91,696   $ 86,403   $ 270,710  

18


Third Quarter 2004 Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Management’s discussion and analysis ("MD&A") focuses on significant factors that affected Pan American Silver Corp.’s and its subsidiaries’ ("Pan American" or the "Company") performance and such factors that may affect its future performance. The MD&A should be read in conjunction with the unaudited consolidated financial statements for the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2004 and the related notes contained herein. Tabular amounts are in thousands of US dollars, except for per share amounts.

The significant accounting policies are outlined within Note 2 to the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Company for the year ended December 31, 2003. These accounting policies have been applied consistently for the nine months ended September 30, 2004.

Significant Events and Transactions of the Third Quarter

The Company completed its acquisition of 92 per cent of the voting shares of Compania Minera Argentum ("Argentum"), a public company listed on the Peru Stock Exchange, which holds the Morococha mining assets previously owned by Sociedad Minera Corona. The Argentum shares were purchased for $33.78 million by way of a public offering through the Lima Stock Exchange. This gave Pan American an 81 per cent direct interest in Argentum. Subsequent to this offer, the Company purchased an additional 3 per cent interest in Argentum by acquiring 25 per cent of the investment shares for $0.84 million. In addition, Pan American acquired 100 per cent of Compania Minera Natividad ("Natividad") for $1.5 million, which holds numerous adjacent mineral concessions and the Amistad processing facility. The Company intends to combine Natividad and Argentum in the near future. The statements of operations and balance sheets of Argentum and Natividad have been incorporated into Pan American’s consolidated financial statements from July 1, 2004.

Argentum and Natividad (collectively "Morococha") contributed 694,564 ounces of silver to Pan American’s production in the third quarter of 2004 at a cash cost of $3.52 per ounce. Over the longer term Morococha is expected to produce 3.5 million ounces of silver annually at a cash cost of less than $3.00 per ounce.

The fair value of assets and liabilities acquired through the acquisition of Morococha are summarized as follows:

    (US$000)  
Cash $ 657  
Accounts receivable   4,364  
Inventory   2,878  
Prepaid expenses   46  
Plant and equipment   7,053  
Mineral properties   46,158  
Total assets   61,156  
Less:      
   Accounts payable and accrued liabilities   (3,215)  
   Non-controlling interest   (1,414)  
   Provision for asset retirement obligation and reclamation   (8,618)  
   Future income tax liability   (11,038)  
Total purchase price $ 36,871  

The future income tax liability arises due to the fact that the purchase consideration exceeded the carrying value of the mining assets for tax purposes, resulting in a temporary difference between the accounting and tax value. The estimated future income tax liability associated with this temporary difference is $11.04 million and has been recognized as a future income tax liability and also applied to increase the carrying value of the mineral properties.

19


The provision for asset retirement obligation and reclamation of $8.62 million arises pursuant to CICA Handbook Section 3110 – "Accounting for Asset Retirement Obligations", which required the Company to recognize the expected fair value of future site restoration costs at Morococha as a liability and to increase the carrying value of mineral properties by the same amount. The liability is accreted over time to its anticipated future value with a corresponding charge to the statement of operations while the increase in the carrying value of mineral properties is amortized on a unit of production basis.

The La Colorada mine in Mexico reached commercial production on January 1, 2004 after a $20 million expansion, which began in late 2002. As such, all revenue and expense items were recognized in the statement of operations in the first nine months of 2004, having been capitalized throughout 2003. This change in accounting treatment gives rise to several significant differences when comparing the consolidated statement of operations for the third quarter of 2004 with the corresponding period in 2003.

Results of Operations

For the three months ended September 30, 2004 the Company’s net income was $3.29 million (earnings per share of $0.05) compared to a net loss of $1.23 million (loss per share of $0.02) for the corresponding period in 2003. The Company generated net income of $4.21 million for the nine-month period ended September 30, 2004 compared to a loss of $3.97 million for the corresponding period in 2003. The loss per share of ($0.11) for the nine months ended September 30, 2004 includes charges associated with the conversion and accretion of the Company’s 5.25 per cent convertible unsecured senior subordinated debentures (the "Debentures"), which occurred in the second quarter of 2004 and were charged directly to deficit.

Revenue from metal sales was 131 per cent higher in the third quarter of 2004 and 97 per cent higher in the first nine months of 2004 compared to the corresponding periods in 2003. The acquisition of the Morococha mine and the La Colorada mine reaching commercial production on January 1, 2004, accounted for most of the revenue increase from a year ago. The Company’s other mining operations recorded a 37 per cent increase in revenue in the third quarter of 2004 compared to the comparable period in 2003 as a result of higher metal prices and in spite of the fact that less tonnes of concentrate were sold in the third quarter of 2004.

The Company continued the trend of improving operating profits in the third quarter of 2004. Operating profit is the difference between revenue and cash operating costs. In the third quarter of 2004 operating profits were $8.9 million, up from $4.4 million in the second quarter of 2004 and from $1.7 million in the comparable quarter of 2003. As reflected in the following table, the third quarter of 2004 represents the eighth consecutive quarter that the Company has improved its operating profit. Steadily improving operating profit has helped the Company record its second consecutive quarter of positive net earnings. Partially offsetting the improved operating profits were increases in depreciation and amortization, exploration and general and administrative charges, reflecting the increased activity levels of a growing enterprise. The table below sets out select quarterly results for the past eleven quarters.

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                    Net income  
  Quarter       Operating   (loss) for the Net loss
Year (unaudited) Revenue   Profit (1)   period per share
2004 Sept. 30 $27,409   $8,883   $3,289 $0.05
  June 30 $20,950   $4,419   $1,287 ($0.12) (2)
  March 31 $15,151   $3,983     ($366) ($0.05) (2)
2003 Dec. 31 $12,857   $2,041   ($4,858) ($0.15)
  Sept. 30 $11,890   $1,690     ($390) ($0.01)
  June 30 $12,553   $1,220   ($1,156) ($0.02)
  March 31 $7,822       $393   ($1,573) ($0.03)
2002 Dec. 31 $12,084       $379   ($14,040) ($0.35)
  Sept. 30 $11,195   ($252)   ($17,387) ($0.40)
  June 30 $11,615       $808   ($1,247) ($0.03)
  March 31 $10,199       $997   ($1,303) ($0.03)

(1)  

Operating Profit/(Loss) is equal to total revenues less direct mine operating expenses

(2)  

Includes charges associated with the early conversion and accretion of the Debentures

Depreciation and amortization charges for the third quarter increased significantly to $3.03 million from $0.43 million a year before. The purchase of Morococha and the achievement of commercial production at La Colorada are the principal reasons for this increase. Depreciation and amortization have also increased as a direct result of the Company’s adoption of CICA Handbook Section 3110 – "Accounting for Asset Retirement Obligations", which required the Company to increase its asset carrying values by $7.9 million as at December 31, 2003. The amortization of these higher asset values on a unit of production basis has resulted in increased depreciation charges.

General and administration ("G & A") costs for the three-month period ended September 30, 2004 were $0.93 million, up from $0.57 million for the comparable quarter in 2003. G & A costs have increased significantly in 2004 from previous years, which is a reflection of the expansion of the Company’s management team necessary to execute the Company’s growth plans, and to a lesser extent a stronger Canadian dollar.

The Company recognized a $0.52 million stock-based compensation expense in the third quarter of 2004, as a result of adopting CICA Handbook Section 3870 – "Stock-Based Compensation" in the fourth quarter of 2003. On a restated basis, the comparable expense recorded in the quarter ended September 30, 2003 was $0.84 million.

Reclamation expense of $0.30 million in the third quarter of 2004 related to the accretion of the liability that the Company recognized by adopting CICA Handbook Section 3110 – "Accounting for Asset Retirement Obligations" as at December 31, 2003. Aside from those restoration costs associated with the Morococha mine, there has been no change to the Company’s expectations of future site restoration costs during the quarter at any of its other mines.

Higher exploration and development expenses were recorded for the three-month and nine-month periods of 2004 relative to 2003 primarily as a result of the Company’s active development program at Manantial Espejo.

Interest and other income represented net income received from the San Vicente operation and interest received from the cash balances the Company maintained during the quarter, which were substantially higher than a year ago primarily due to the proceeds of the Debentures, together with the equity financing completed in March 2004.

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Production

Pan American produced 3,173,000 ounces of silver in the third quarter of 2004, a 45 per cent increase from the corresponding period in 2003. The acquisition of the Morococha mine accounts for 32 per cent of the increase, with significant increases at La Colorada and the San Vicente operation responsible for the balance. The Quiruvilca mine maintained its strong performance by producing more ounces than a year ago at much lower cash costs per ounce. The Huaron mine continued to improve on a challenging first quarter by recording higher silver production than in the third quarter of 2003 at a cash cost of $3.87 per ounce. The Company’s Pyrite Stockpile operation was again profitable, producing 231,115 ounces of silver during the quarter at cash costs of $2.87 per ounce.

While production rates at the La Colorada mine are steadily increasing, as expected the mine was not able to cover its cash operating costs in the third quarter. A revised mining and processing plan has been developed and implemented to address the major issues that have hampered the mine since the start of commercial production at the beginning of 2004. The primary component of the plan was a switch to a more selective narrow vein mining method, which has decreased tonnes mined but substantially increased ore grades reported to the mill. In addition, the Company plans to further expand the reserve and resource base at the mine and to provide greater development flexibility in the future. The Company still expects La Colorada to achieve an annualized production rate of 3.5 million ounces at cash costs of less than $3.50 per ounce; however, the Company now believes these levels will be reached in the first quarter of 2005.

Consolidated cash costs for the nine-month period ended September 30, 2004 were $4.01 per ounce compared to $4.12 per ounce for the corresponding period of 2003. During this period, cash costs improved significantly at Quiruvilca, were stable at Huaron but were offset by higher than expected costs at La

Colorada. With the addition of the low-cost Morococha mine and improvements at La Colorada, the Company expects consolidated cash costs to decrease and is estimating consolidated silver production of approximately 11.5 million ounces at a cash cost below $4.00 per ounce for 2004.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

At September 30, 2004, cash and cash equivalents plus short-term investments were $80.84 million, a $37.90 million decrease from June 30, 2004. Investing activities consumed $37.32 million in cash and consisted primarily of the acquisition of the Morococha mine for $36.21 million, expenditures on mineral property, plant and equipment of $2.68 million and proceeds from the liquidation of short-term investments of $2.01 million. Cash flow from operating activities was $6.91 million for the quarter ended September 30, 2004 before the net increase of $6.58 million in non-cash working capital. Increased non-cash working capital was primarily the result of increased accounts receivable and concentrate inventories associated with the concentrate producing Morococha mine. Financing activities in the third quarter yielded $0.79 million mainly from the exercise of stock options.

Working capital at September 30, 2004 was $97.08 million, a reduction of $27.87 million from June 30, 2004. The reduction is reflected largely in a $37.90 million decrease in cash and cash equivalents plus short-term investments, offset by increases of $6.66 million in accounts receivable, $3.03 million in inventories and $1.28 million in prepaid expenses.

Capital resources at September 30, 2004 amounted to shareholders’ equity of $263.33 million, capital leases of $0.33 million and deferred revenue of $0.75 million. At September 30, 2004, the Company had 66,752,572 common shares issued and outstanding.

Based on the Company’s financial position at September 30, 2004 and the operating cash flows that are expected over the next twelve months, management believes that the Company’s liquid assets are more than sufficient to fund planned operating and project development and sustaining capital expenditures and discharge liabilities as they come due. The Company’s only contractual obligation at the date of this MD&A was $0.4 million relating to a capital lease payable over the next two years. The Company does not have any off-balance sheet arrangements.

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Pan American mitigates the price risk associated with its base metal production by selling some of its forecasted base metal production under forward sales contracts, all of which are designated hedges for accounting purposes. The Company incurred base metal hedging losses in the third quarter of 2004 totaling $0.65 million (2003 – gain of $0.05 million), which have been included in the revenue figure on the consolidated statements of operations. At September 30, 2004, the Company had sold forward 25,140 tonnes of zinc at a weighted average price of $1,062 per tonne ($0.482 per pound) and 6,170 tonnes of lead at a weighted average price of $722 per tonne ($0.328 per pound). The forward sales commitments for zinc represent approximately 45 per cent of the Company’s forecast zinc production until December 2005. The lead forward sales commitments represent approximately 35 per cent of the Company’s forecast lead production until June 2005. At September 30, 2004, the cash offered prices for zinc and lead were $1,102 and $976 per tonne, respectively. The mark to market value at September 30, 2004 was ($2.57) million. However, due to significant declines in the price of zinc and lead since September 30, 2004, at the date of this MD&A the mark to market valuation had improved to ($0.71) million.

At the end of the third quarter of 2004, the Company had fixed the price of 800,000 ounces of the third quarter’s silver production contained in concentrates, which is due to be priced in October and November under the Company’s concentrate contracts. The price fixed for these ounces averaged $6.58 per ounce while the spot price of silver was $6.67 on September 30, 2004.

Exploration and Development Activities

At Huaron, progress towards expanding production rates continued during the quarter. The mine was able to maintain the monthly mining rates achieved in the second quarter, and is currently processing approximately 12 per cent more ore per month than a year ago. As part of the plan to increase production by up to 30 per cent at the Huaron mine, the Company initiated a second phase drill program focused on resource conversion. This is a continuation of the $1.0 million first phase drilling program completed in the first half of the year. Rehabilitation of the mine’s 500 level is ongoing and is a key component of the plan to establish a second mining area, thereby allowing for an overall increase in monthly ore extraction. The cost of this program is being capitalized.

During the third quarter of 2004, the continued to move forward with the feasibility study for the 50 per cent owned Manantial Espejo project in Argentina. Hatch Engineers developed the plant and infrastructure capital and operating cost estimates for the purposes of this scoping study. Snowden Engineers

completed the scoping level open pit mining operating and capital cost estimates, which incorporated an updated mineral resource estimate. Vector Engineers have completed the archeological field program with no significant findings within the proposed disturbed area and the environmental baseline field programs are well underway. An additional 5,000 meters of infill and extension drilling has been initiated, together with drilling to secure a water supply for the mine. The feasibility study for the project is expected to be completed by early 2005. Pan American’s share of the feasibility costs for the first nine months of 2004 was $1.63 million, which was expensed as incurred.

At Alamo Dorado in Mexico, a full time project manager has been hired as the Company started the process of staffing up for construction. Progress has been made toward securing a power supply and the mine concessions have been successfully upgraded to exploitation concessions and the explosives license received. Site hydrological investigations including development of a ground water monitoring program for any tailings facility designs are underway. Grindability tests were performed during the quarter and as a follow on from these tests, a pilot plant has been activated. The updated feasibility study is scheduled for completion in February 2005 incorporating the revised environmental permitting, pilot plant evaluation and tailings disposal facility design associated with the milling facility.

At the San Vicente property, production continued under the 50,000 tonne agreement with EMUSA, a Bolivian mining company acting as operator. The small-scale test mining program has produced 210,451 ounces of silver in the first nine months of the year to Pan American’s account. The Company continued to move forward with a feasibility study, including completing 11,364 meters of diamond drilling by the end of the third quarter and undertaking assessments of nearby processing facilities.

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