Tin prices hit their highest level for 17 years while nickel and lead prices reached new records on Monday as traders returning to their desks after London Metal Exchange week focused on tight supplies and low inventories.

Tin was the sessions star performer, surging 12.8 per cent to $11,000 a tonne. Short-term momentum players moved in late in the London session after early gains were prompted by ongoing concerns about supply disruptions in Indonesia.