Abstract: A coated metal anode for the electrolytic recovery of metals is disclosed, whereby the working surface of this anode is represented by rods 4 which are arranged in a plane in spaced, parallel relationship to each other and which are electrically connected to a current supply rail 3.To provide a coated metal anode of the identified type, which ensures an operation with acceptable current density and which permits with a simple constructive assembly an energy saving deposit of metal with high purity on the oppositly disposed cathode, the total surface F.sub.A of the rods 4 and the surface F.sub.p assumed by the total arrangement of the rods 4 fulfills the relationship 6.gtoreq.F.sub.A :F.sub.p .gtoreq.2.