9 of the World’s Most Popular Gold Bullion Coins

Gold bullion coins are a popular choice for investors looking to diversify their portfolios and store wealth in a tangible form. These coins are minted by various national mints and typically valued based on their gold content rather than their rarity or design. While proof coins are targeted at collectors, bullion coins are focused on investors, and their prices tend to reflect the current gold spot price.

Here are nine of the most popular gold bullion coins around the world:

1. South African Krugerrand

   • Purity: 91.67% gold
   • Minted Since: 1967
   • Iconic Features: Featuring a portrait of Paul Kruger and a springbok antelope, the Krugerrand is the oldest modern gold bullion coin and one of the most famous.
   • Use: The Krugerrand was introduced to market South Africa’s gold and became the dominant coin globally by 1980.

2. Canadian Maple Leaf

   • Purity: 99.99% gold
   • Minted Since: 1979
   • Iconic Features: The Maple Leaf coin is known for its high purity and features a maple leaf design on the obverse, symbolizing Canada, and a portrait of the reigning monarch on the reverse.
   • Use: It is a favorite for investors seeking the highest purity available in a gold bullion coin.

3. Mexican Gold Libertad

   • Purity: 99.9% gold
   • Minted Since: 1981
   • Iconic Features: The front features the Winged Victory statue with Mexican volcanoes in the background, while the reverse showcases the Mexican Coat of Arms.
   • Use: Popular for both collectors and investors, the Libertad is highly regarded for its beautiful design.

4. Chinese Gold Panda

   • Purity: 99.9% gold
   • Minted Since: 1982
   • Iconic Features: Known for its yearly changing panda design on the obverse, it’s one of the most collectible gold coins.
   • Use: Investors value it for both its purity and the uniqueness of its changing design.

5. American Gold Eagle

   • Purity: 91.67% gold
   • Minted Since: 1986
   • Iconic Features: Featuring Lady Liberty holding a torch and olive branch, the coin is inspired by Augustus Saint-Gaudens’ design and is popular for its recognition.
   • Use: One of the most popular choices for U.S. investors, offering both aesthetic value and gold content.

6. Australian Gold Kangaroo

   • Purity: 99.99% gold
   • Minted Since: 1987
   • Iconic Features: The coin features a kangaroo, one of Australia’s most recognizable symbols, with a portrait of the monarch on the reverse.
   • Use: The Australian Kangaroo is renowned for its purity and is a strong contender in the global gold coin market.

7. British Gold Britannia

   • Purity: 99.9% gold
   • Minted Since: 1987
   • Iconic Features: The coin features the image of Britannia, the female personification of Britain, and is minted by the Royal Mint.
   • Use: Known for its iconic design, this coin is a favorite in both the U.K. and abroad.

8. Austrian Gold Philharmonic

   • Purity: 99.99% gold
   • Minted Since: 1989
   • Iconic Features: The coin celebrates Austria’s musical legacy, showcasing the Great Organ of the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra.
   • Use: It is unique as it is issued in euros and appeals to investors who also appreciate musical history.

9. American Gold Buffalo

   • Purity: 99.99% gold
   • Minted Since: 2006
   • Iconic Features: Featuring a buffalo and Native American portrait, this coin is the first U.S. coin with 99.99% purity.
   • Use: A collector’s favorite and a way for U.S. investors to purchase highly pure gold from the U.S. Mint.

How to Invest in Gold Bullion Coins

Investing in gold bullion coins can be done through a variety of avenues, including second-party dealers, authorized retailers, mints, and banks. However, the process differs depending on the country.

In the United States, the U.S. Mint sells its bullion coins only to authorized purchasers who then distribute them to the public.

In Canada, investors can buy directly from the Royal Canadian Mint either online or in person, as well as through authorized dealers.

Conclusion

Gold bullion coins are a well-established method for diversifying an investment portfolio. Whether you’re interested in the iconic designs or the purity of the gold, these coins offer a tangible way to hold precious metals.

Related topics:

• Knowing the Weight of Gold: How Many Grams in a Troy Ounce?
• Why Are Gold Coins Different Prices?
• How to Know Gold Purity?