Are you looking to invest in gold bullion coins for long-term wealth generation?
With so many different gold coins to choose from – collectible coins, bullion coins, and more – deciding which is best for you can be a daunting task. Fortunately, this ultimate guide will provide all the answers and help set your mind at ease as you make this important investment decision.
We’ll look at the different types of gold coins available, discuss why they make good investments, compare their unique benefits, costs, and more — giving you everything you need to know about choosing the right kind of coin before investing this year.
Here are the best gold coins to buy for investment:
- Canadian Gold Maple Leaf
- American Gold Eagle
- Austrian Philharmonic
- South African Krugerrand
- Australian Gold Nugget (Australian Kangaroo)
- Chinese Gold Panda
- American Buffalo
- British Britannia
Now that we know what the best gold coins are for investment, let’s dive into a bit more detail and learn the unique pros and cons of each so you can start investing today!
Best Gold Coins to Buy
When it comes to protecting your wealth, always think outside the box. Diversify.
Be sure not to limit yourself geographically. By considering gold investments internationally you can strengthen and widen the breadth of security for what’s yours.
Gold bullion is a great way to access this global resources market. Store some near home but also look into keeping safe reserves offshore with a reliable broker or in private vaults.
With that being said, here is our list of the best gold coins to buy for investment.
Canadian Gold Maple Leaf
The Maple Leaf is a shining symbol of gold bullion pedigree and rightfully considered one of the world’s premier coins. Renowned for its remarkable purity and often called “the world’s purest gold bullion”, Gold Maple Leafs are stamped with a .9999 guarantee of quality.
These iconic Canadian treasures were introduced over 40 years ago in an era marked by difficulty obtaining South African Krugerrands due to apartheid. That timely debut has since turned it into a widely accepted global icon, renowned as much for their illustrious international heritage at the respected Royal Canadian Mint as they are their .9999 pure gold content.
The Canadian Maple Leaf coin is more than just a form of legal tender. It’s an emblem for the quality and excellence that has become synonymous with Royal Canadian Mint, having stood as the pinnacle in 24k gold 1-ounce coins since its inception. This iconic symbol holds remarkable distinction within golden collecting circles across world markets.
- Producing Mint: Royal Canadian Mint
- First Minted: 1979
- Karat: 24-karat
- Purity: 99.99%
- Denominations: 1 gram, 1⁄20 oz, 1⁄10 oz, 1⁄4 oz, 1⁄2 oz, 1 oz
Why to Buy: The Canadian Maple Leaf may just be the world’s most coveted gold coin. Its widespread acceptance overseas and international prestige make it a must-have item for anyone looking to protect their portfolio and access more liquidity internationally.
American Gold Eagle
Showcasing the purest expression of patriotism and freedom, the majestic design of American Eagle gold coins stands as a symbol that transcends boundaries. Lady Liberty strides confidently on one side while the United States’ national bird, the bald eagle, nests proudly in harmony with its partner on the other, making this coin an ideal way to express loyalty to your nation’s legacy whilst also investing sensibly. For those looking for something extra special there are fractional sizes available so everyone can join in commemorating these timeless symbols regardless of their budget.
But do be warned: Gold Eagles may be a popular choice among Americans, but other parts of the world have their own favored bullion coins. In Hong Kong and Singapore, these are near-impossible to find. The Austrian Philharmonic has a strong presence in most parts of Europe and is the preferred coin there. US American Eagle gold pieces, which contain 22 karats compared with 24 for most competitor coins, might prove tricky to buy outside America. Many investors from countries like China, India or Vietnam opt instead for more easily accessible options.
- Producing Mint: United States Mint
- First Minted: 1986
- Karat: 22-karat
- Purity: 91.67%
- Denominations: 1/10 troy oz, 1/4 troy oz, 1/2 troy oz, 1 troy oz
Why to Buy: If you’re based in the United States and want a coin that represents the nation’s great legacy, then opt for the American Gold Eagle. It’s very commonly traded in the US and can make a great investment within your borders. Just don’t count on easily liquidity when trying to trade internationally.
Austrian Philharmonic
The Austrian Gold Philharmonic is an exquisite gold coin that is held in high regard around the world. Though not as popular in Asia, it is highly coveted in Europe and the Americas.
The coins feature a tribute to Austria’s beloved national treasure, the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra adorning one side while showcasing their traditional Golden Hall performance venue on reverse.
Not only are these limited-mintage coins highly sought after internationally, they provide unique insight into another facet of European culture all at affordable premiums. It’s no surprise then why premiums on these precious relics remain competitive with those for Maple Leafs. The Austrian Gold Philharmonic coin is an esteemed addition to any investor’s portfolio.
due to its lesser popularity among US collectors compared to Gold Eagles or even Maple Leafs, investing in Austria’s iconic treasure is an excellent opportunity for internationalization.
- Producing Mint: Austrian Mint
- First Minted: 1989
- Karat: 24-karat
- Purity: 99.99%
- Denominations: 1⁄25 troy oz, 1⁄10 troy oz., 1⁄4 troy oz/, 1⁄2 troy oz., 1 troy oz
Why to Buy: Investing in Austria’s iconic treasure is an excellent opportunity for internationalization. Though it’s less popular among US collectors compared to Gold Eagles or even Maple Leafs, investing in this gold coin is a great chance to diversify due to its popularity in the rest of the world.
South African Krugerrand
The Krugerrand Gold Coin is the pride of South Africa and beyond, and remains am internationally recognized symbol of wealth and dependability to this day. These bullion coins have stood strong since 1967, making them a symbol that has withstood the test of time. Named after former president Paul Kruger, their obverse showcases an image of him accompanied by its unique antelope sigil.
First minted in 1967 as part of an effort to globally market South African gold reserves, its wearable weight (1.1 ounces) and .9167 fineness make it attractive to investors who value stability just as much they do bullion coins’ tangibility over paper currency or stocks. The iconic coin quickly took off among traders worldwide, and today more people own Krugerrands than any other gold coin out there!
- Producing Mint: South African Mint
- First Minted: 1967
- Karat: 22-karat
- Purity: 91.67%
- Denominations: 1/10 troy oz, 1/4 troy oz, 1/2 troy oz, 1 troy oz
Why to Buy: The South African Krugerrand stands apart from the other gold bullion coins as a powerful, long-lasting investment option. Its 22 karat gold and 8.33% copper content make it resilient in any climate or market condition — so much that investors are more likely to buy these than all other 1 ounce options combined!
Australian Gold Nugget (Australian Kangaroo)
The Australian Kangaroo, first released in the 1980s, is highly sought-after worldwide to this day. Australia’s close-knit proximity to Asia has made their gold coins a desirable choice for Asian investors seeking greater security and trust versus other options like the Chinese Panda.
Alluringly referred to as “Australian Gold Nuggets”—these rare bullion pieces showcase unique designs each year which make them highly sought after in the international community.
Moreover, Perth Mint created headlines worldwide with its 2011 feat of crafting an astonishing one-ton gold coin! With its .9999 pure kangaroo insignia and unique designs, the Australian mint continues to honor the values of the gold collector community with time.
- Producing Mint: Perth Mint
- First Minted: 1986
- Karat: 24-karat
- Purity: 99.99%
- Denominations: 1⁄20 oz, 1⁄10 oz, 1⁄4 oz, 1⁄2 oz, 1 oz, 2 oz, 10 oz, 1 kg
Why to Buy: A unique opportunity for savvy investors – Australian Kangaroo Coins represent a rare chance to diversify your portfolio, as their legal tender status and annual design changes could increase even further the numismatic value of these precious coins.
Chinese Gold Panda
The Chinese Gold Pandas are no ordinary bullion coins — they come with a bit of history that dates back to 1982 when China first began minting them. Their alluring designs and workmanship mixed with their low mintage production figures capture the attention of collectors internationally.
Boasting both high purity and yearly changing designs, the Chinese Gold Panda has evolved into a phenomenon in gold trading and secured its place as one of the most sought-after collectibles.
In addition to the classic packaging of plastic pouches or capsules that give these coins an added air of sophistication, their distinctiveness lies in its design, which — despite changing every year — always features images of pandas.
- Producing Mint: The Chinese Mint
- First Minted: 1982
- Karat: 24-karat
- Purity: 99.99%
- Denominations: 1/20 troy oz, 1/10 troy oz, 1/4 troy oz, 1/2 troy oz, 1 troy oz
Why to Buy: The Chinese Panda coin is one of the most internationally sought-after gold bullion coins, and is extremely popular among Asian investors. If you’re looking to diversify your portfolio and go global, you can’t go wrong investing in this incredible coin.
American Buffalo
The American Buffalo is a 24-karat bullion coin first offered for sale by the United States Mint in 2006. This was the first time the United States Government minted 99.99% pure gold coins for the public, largely in reaction to the demand for 24-karat gold bullion coins worldwide.
The American Buffalo gold coin is a unique treasure, with each piece having its own individual characteristics. Its rugged edges and varying thicknesses make it stand out from other coins. But the real beauty of this precious item lies in its design — one side displays a powerful buffalo, while the other proudly presents an image of classic Native American culture.
The American Buffalo Gold Coin has gone on to captivate the hearts and portfolios of many preeminent buyers around the world. Though not as popular as the American Eagle, these coins have a large market in the United States and compete in the 24-karat gold market which makes up about 60% of global gold sales!
Though not as popular as the American Eagle, these coins have a large market in the United States. Due to a combination of the coin’s popularity within the US market and gold’s meteoric rise, the value of these coins has increased significantly over the years.
- Producing Mint: United States Mint
- First Minted: 2006
- Karat: 24-karat
- Purity: 99.99%
- Denominations: 1/10 oz, 1/4 oz, 1/2 oz, 1 oz
Why to Buy: Though often overlooked, these coins have become a valuable commodity in recent years. Initially priced at $800 by the U.S Mint in 2006, they now cost over double that amount — an impressive increase indicative of the coin’s rising popularity and higher gold prices. As such, many collectors consider them to be sound investments with lasting potential for buyers looking ahead!
British Britannia
For over 30 years, the captivating power of Britannia has been immortalized on these Royal Mint coins. Available in gold since 1987, these unique pieces feature a timeless representation of Britain’s strength — personified by an iconic female figure.
Boasting one troy ounce of pure gold along with fractional-sized counterparts ranging from £5 up to £500 in face value, each coin is sure to inject sparkle into any portfolio or collection.
Spanning over 2,000 years of history and heritage, the globally-recognized Britannia design continues to be one of the most respected bullion investments today. Its strong secondary market makes it a particularly liquid choice for all investors, big or small.
With the Britannia bullion coin, investors can have ultimate flexibility when exiting their gold investments. They aren’t locked into selling whole one-ounce coins — they’re free to choose from a range of denominations, allowing them to flexibly structure sales based on exactly what suits them best.
With their exemption from Capital Gains Tax and VAT free status, Britannia bullion coins are a sound choice for UK citizens looking to make investments.
- Producing Mint: Royal Mint
- First Minted: 1987
- Karat: 22-karat (until 2012), 24-karat (2013 and after)
- Purity: 91.67% (until 2012), 99.99% (2013 and after)
- Denominations: 1/10 troy oz, 1/4 troy oz, 1/2 troy oz, 1 troy oz
Why to Buy: The Britannia bullion coins are a great choice for investors in the UK looking for a tax-free investment that has stood the test of time. For buyers from other countries, their strong secondary market and makes them a great choice as a diversification play.
Comparison of the Top Gold Coins
Best Gold Coins to Buy
| Gold Coin | Producing Mint | First Minted | Karat | Purity (%) | Denominations |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Canadian Gold Maple Leaf | Royal Canadian Mint | 1979 | 24-karat | 99.99 | 1 g, 1⁄20 oz, 1⁄10 oz, 1⁄4 oz, 1⁄2 oz, 1 oz |
| American Gold Eagle | United States Mint | 1986 | 22-karat | 91.67 | 1⁄10 troy oz, 1⁄4 troy oz, 1/2 troy oz, 1 troy oz |
| Austrian Philharmonic | Austrian Mint | 1989 | 24-karat | 99.99 | 1⁄25 troy oz, 1⁄10 troy oz., 1⁄4 troy oz/, 1⁄2 troy oz., 1 troy oz |
| South African Krugerrand | South African Mint | 1967 | 22-karat | 91.67 | 1⁄2 troy oz, 1⁄4 troy oz, 1⁄10 troy oz, 1 troy oz |
| Australian Kangaroo | Perth Mint | 1986 | 24-karat | 99.99 | 1⁄20 oz, 1⁄10 oz, 1⁄4 oz, 1⁄2 oz, 1 oz, 2 oz, 10 oz, 1 kg |
| Chinese Gold Panda | The Chinese Mint | 1982 | 24-karat | 99.99 | 1⁄20 troy oz, 1⁄10 troy oz, 1⁄4 troy oz, 1⁄2 troy oz, 1 troy oz |
| American Buffalo | United States Mint | 2006 | 24-karat | 99.99 | 1⁄10 oz, 1⁄4 oz, 1⁄2 oz, 1 oz |
| British Sovereign | Royal Mint | 1987 | 22-karat (until 2012), 24-karat (2013+) | 91.67 (until 2012), 99.99 (2013+) | 1⁄10 troy oz, 1⁄4 troy oz, 1⁄2 troy oz, 1 troy oz |
Frequently Asked Questions About Buying Gold Coins
Which gold coins are best investment?
There is no definitive answer to this question as the best investment in gold coins depends on a variety of factors, including the current market conditions and your personal financial situation. With that said, some gold coins may be a better investment than others, depending on their rarity and condition.
Some of the most popular gold coins for investment include American Gold Eagles, Canadian Gold Maple Leafs, South African Krugerrands, and Austrian Philharmonics. These coins are all backed by national governments, which adds a layer of security to your investment. Additionally, they are all relatively easy to sell in the event that you need to liquidate your assets.
What gold coins hold the most value?
Gold coins that are in mint condition hold the most value, along with coins that are the most rare. Condition is determined by a number of factors, such as the amount of wear on the coin and its coloration.
Be sure to check the resale value and secondary market liquidity of gold coins before investing, and only buy internationally recognized gold (especially when just starting out). If buying gold coins, stick to Canadian Gold Maple Leafs, American Gold Eagles, Austrian Philharmonics, South African Krugerrands, Australian Kangaroos, or Chinese Gold Pandas.
What is the best type of gold to buy?
The best type of gold to buy is internationally recognized gold, such as the Canadian Gold Maple Leaf. These coins are minted by the Royal Canadian Mint and are made with 24-karat gold. They are also backed by the government of Canada, so they can be easily traded or sold anywhere in the world.
Other options include Australian Kangarooos, Austrian Philharmonics, and Chinese Pandas. All of these coins are made with 24-karat gold and are backed by the respective governments. However, they may not be as well known or as easy to trade or sell internationally as a Canadian Gold Maple Leaf.
What is the most popular gold coin?
When it comes to gold bullion, the Maple Leaf is the most popular coin internationally. It’s been around for over 40 years and remains second-to-none. A real asset that’s accepted everywhere from Hong Kong to your local bank, this Canadian coin boasts an impressive .9999 gold content. Looking to diversify your portfolio? Investing in Maple Leafs from the highly respected Royal Canadian Mint is sure to boost its international stature.
Why are Krugerrands cheaper than Eagles?
The enigmatic Gold Eagle, with only 18.7 million coins in existence compared to the Krugerrand’s 60 million and Maple Leaf coin’s unknown quantity of mints, reigns supreme as bullion trading market royalty. Gold Eagles command a premium price tag due to their rarity and fewer buyers/sellers willing to trifle for them at any given time.
Parting Words
You now have a comprehensive guide to the best gold coins to invest in this coming year.
Whether you’re looking to invest in gold as a hedge against economic risk, or simply as part of your investment portfolio, these coins are great options that can offer long-term returns with only modest maintenance. And the great thing is, they are easy to purchase and relatively safe to store.
Yet, there is still so much more you can know about on this topic and it’s important to educate yourself before making any kind of commitment with your hard-earned money. Knowledge is power in the world of investments and capitalizing wisely in gold can help you build a secure future for yourself and your family.
We hope this guide has given you some helpful insights into where and how to start investing in gold coins – now it’s time for you to make an informed decision. As always, feel free to reach out with questions or leave us a comment if something wasn’t clear from our discussion here.
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