A method and electrochemical cell for recovery of metals is provided, where the electrochemical cell includes an anode disposed in an anodic chamber, a cathode disposed in a cathodic chamber, an ion-conducting separator disposed between the anode and the cathode to physically separate the anodic and cathodic chambers, a basic pH anolyte containing a sacrificial reductant disposed within the anodic chamber, an acidic pH catholyte containing metal ions disposed within the cathodic chamber, and an electrical connection between the anode and the cathode. The method includes applying a voltage or an electrical current to an electrolytic cell across the cathode and the anode and is sufficient to reduce the metal ions to form an elemental metal species at the cathode, and to oxidize the sacrificial reductant at the anode.