Corrosion inhibiting calcium-containing amorphous precipitated silica is described. The silica is prepared by admixing simultaneously in a reactor aqueous alkali metal silicate, e.g., sodium silicate, acidifying agent, e.g., hydrochloric acid, and a water-soluble source of calcium, e.g., calcium chloride. The product contains from 6 to 9 weight percent calcium (as CaO). The silica product may be incorporated into a coating composition used for corrodible metallic surfaces.