Investing in gold is a common idea, especially when times get a bit complicated. We're all looking for a way to keep our money safe, and gold has always had this image of a safe bet. But with all the options out there, between bars, coins, jewelry, and even gold we buy on the stock market, it can quickly feel lost. So, what are the best gold investment coins? We're going to take a closer look to help you see things more clearly and make the best choice for your savings.
What are the best investment gold coins?
- Gold bars are a safe bet, valued for their purity and ease of resale.
- Gold coins like the Napoleon 20 Francs offer good liquidity and historical value.
- The Maple Leaf and the American Eagle are investment coins internationally recognized for their purity.
- The British Sovereign and Brittania are other solid options for diversifying your gold portfolio.
- The Vera Valor Elizabeth II and the 100 Swiss francs Vreneli are interesting coins, particularly for their more accessible formats or their collector aspect.
Gold ingots
When we talk about investing in gold, bullion often comes to mind. It's a bit of a classic image of gold, right? Bullion is truly a safe bet for those looking to protect their capital. Unlike jewelry or even certain coins, bullion is designed for pure investment. It's generally made of very pure gold, often 99,99%. This is a big advantage when you want quality.
The convenient thing about ingots is that they come in a variety of sizes. You can find everything from tiny ones, like 1-gram ingots, to large one-kilo ingots. This makes storage and transportation much easier, depending on your budget and needs. Plus, they're fairly easy to resell on the market, as they have good liquidity.
It's important to know that to be considered investment gold and therefore exempt from VAT upon purchase, ingots must have a purity of at least 99,5%. This is an important rule to know.
Gold bars are a solid option for those who prioritize purity and simplicity in their precious metals investment strategy. Their standardization facilitates transactions and their value is directly linked to the Gold prices.
Here are some points to consider when thinking about bullion:
- Purity : Always look for at least 99,5% purity to benefit from tax advantages and maximum intrinsic value.
- Size : Choose the size that best fits your budget and storage goals. Smaller bars are more affordable, while larger bars may offer a better price per gram.
- Certificate : Make sure the ingot comes with a certificate of authenticity and is packaged in a sealed package. This guarantees its quality and makes it easier to resell.
- Buyer : It is important to go through recognized and reliable sellers to ensure the authenticity and quality of the gold purchased.
Napoleon 20 Francs
Ah, the Napoleon 20 Francs! It's a bit of a local star when it comes to investing in gold in France. This coin, first minted in 1803 under Napoleon Bonaparte, replaced the good old Louis d'Or. It even served as the basis for the monetary system of the Latin Union from 1865, which demonstrates its historical importance.
The great thing about the Napoleon is that it's easy to resell. Its light weight (6,45 grams of gold) and its popularity in France and Europe make it a safe bet. Plus, like many gold coins, it benefits from attractive tax treatment: no capital gains tax if you keep it for more than 22 years. It's definitely a coin to consider for the long term.
And let's talk about the "bonus". It's the small difference between the gold price contained in the piece and the price at which it is sold to you. The Napoleon has a premium that is generally low, but beware, it can skyrocket when times are a little turbulent, like during the 2008 financial crisis. Right now, with all the global uncertainties, its premium can vary quite a bit, between 7% and 40% depending on the vintage. It's a bit of a barometer of confidence, in a way.
It's important to know that there are several types of Napoleons. The best known is the 20 Francs Coq Marianne from the 1900s, but there are also 10 or 5 Francs Napoléon III versions dating from the 1800s. Each has its own charm and history.
It's important to carefully check the condition of antique coins. Even if they have historical value, their condition can influence their resale price. Re-strikes, which mimic antique coins, may also bear the original date, which can be confusing.
Key Features
- Fine gold weight: 5,80 grams
- Gross weight : 6,45 grams
- Purity: 900 thousandths (21,6 carats)
- Diameter: 21 mm
- Struck : Mainly between 1803 and 1914, with more recent re-strikes.
Advantages of investing in the Napoleon 20 Francs
- Liquidity: Easy to buy and sell in the French and European market.
- History and Recognition: An iconic piece, well known to investors.
- Taxation: Progressive exemption from capital gains after 22 years of ownership.
- Bonus in times of crisis: Potential for premium increases during periods of economic uncertainty.
Points requiring special attention
- Variable bonus: The premium may fluctuate depending on demand and supply.
- Knowledge of vintages: Some vintages are rarer and therefore more sought after.
- Conservation state : The condition of the coin can affect its value, especially for older coins.
Maple Leaf
The Maple Leaf is a Canadian coin that first appeared on the market in 1979. It is minted by the Royal Canadian Mint and has the distinction of being one of the first coins to display a gold content of 999,9‰, which means that it is made of pure, 24-carat gold. This is quite impressive when you consider that many other investment coins are a little less pure.
On the obverse, you'll find a portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, along with the face value (which is $5 for the 1/10 ounce version) and the year of minting. The reverse is quite simple but very recognizable: a maple leaf, the symbol of Canada. Pretty straightforward, right?
The great thing about the Maple Leaf is that it comes in several sizes, ranging from a full ounce to 1/20 ounce. This means there's something for every budget, whether you're a big investor or starting with a small nest egg. The 1/10 ounce version, for example, is a good option for those who want to get their hands on physical gold without breaking the bank.
You should know that these coins are often in FDC (Fleur de Coin) or PROOF condition, meaning they are practically new. Their high purity also makes them quite fragile, so you really have to be careful how you store them. Don't handle them lightly; keep them well protected.
Another interesting point: the Maple Leaf is legal tender in Canada. For us investors, this means that taxation upon resale follows the common law regime. Basically, if you sell for less than 5 euros, you don't have to pay capital gains tax. That's always good to know!
Here is a small table to compare the most common formats:
| Format | Face Value (CAD) |
|---|---|
| 1 ounces | 50 |
| 1/2 ounce | 20 |
| 1/4 ounce | 10 |
| 1/10 ounce | 5 |
| 1/20 ounce | 1 |
It is always advisable to check the traceability of your gold coins. A reliable seller should be able to provide you with a certificate of authenticity.
American Eagle
The American Eagle: A Sure American Value
The American Eagle, launched in 1986, quickly became a must-have investment coin, especially for those who believe in America's economic power. It succeeds the famous "Liberty" coin (or "Double Eagle" for the $20 version), which had been minted since 1795. The Eagle is often considered a collector's coin in the United States, which can sometimes increase its premium, particularly during times of economic uncertainty.
What really sets the American Eagle apart is its gold content, set at 91,67% (or 22 karats). On its reverse, we find a powerful symbol: an eagle's nest, hence its name. The most common version, and the one equivalent to one ounce of fine gold, is the $50 coin. It's a coin that benefits from the notoriety of the American dollar, a currency that remains a global benchmark for trade.
Here are some key details about the American Eagle:
- Gross weight : Approximately 33,93 grams (for the $50 version).
- Fine gold content: 1 ounce (31,1035 grams).
- Purity: 91,67% (22 carats).
- Face value: 50 US dollars.
- Effigy: The obverse features the profile of Augustus Saint-Gaudens, while the reverse features an eagle's nest.
The American Eagle is a coin that combines the intrinsic value of gold with the perceived stability of American currency. Its production is handled by the United States Mint, which guarantees a certain reliability in terms of its quality and authenticity. It is a popular choice for diversifying a precious metals investment portfolio.
It's important to note that, like many bullion coins, the American Eagle is legal tender, but its market value is primarily determined by its weight in gold and the premiums attached to it. Its liquidity is generally good, as it is recognized worldwide.
British Sovereign
Ah, the British Sovereign! A coin that has survived the centuries, no less! First minted in the 15th century, it has truly been a symbol of the British Empire's power throughout the world. Interestingly, it features the portraits of the various monarchs who have succeeded one another. As a result, there's quite a variety of versions that have been produced over time.
For those new to gold investing, the Sovereign is a relatively affordable option. With its net weight of 7,32 grams, it won't break the bank to acquire your first iconic gold coin. And tax-wise, it's pretty cool: as a legal tender, you're eligible for a capital gains tax exemption if you resell it for less than €5.
Key Features
- Gross weight : 7,98 grams
- Fine gold weight: 7,32 grams (or 0,2354 troy ounces)
- Purity: 91,67% (or 22 carats)
- Diameter: 22,05 mm
- Thickness : 1,52 mm
- Legal tender: Yes
Pros and cons
- Advantage:
- International recognition.
- High liquidity due to its long history and popularity.
- Favorable taxation for sales below a certain threshold.
- Variety of vintages and portraits of sovereigns, which may interest collectors.
- Disadvantages:
- Its 22-carat purity is slightly lower than that of more modern coins like the Maple Leaf.
- The premium may vary depending on the vintage and condition.
The British Sovereign is a solid investment coin, valued for its history and liquidity. It's a good choice for diversifying your physical gold portfolio, especially if you're looking for a coin with strong historical recognition.
Brittania
The Britannia is a popular gold bullion coin minted by the British Royal Mint. It is renowned for its high purity, typically 999,9‰ (24 carats), making it an attractive option for investors seeking a high-quality precious metal. Its design features the figure of Britannia, the allegorical symbol of Great Britain, often depicted with a trident and shield. The coin is available in several denominations, including one ounce, half ounce, quarter ounce, and tenth ounce, providing flexibility for different investment budgets.
The Britannia is legal tender in the United Kingdom, which gives it a certain security and recognition. It is also valued for its liquidity, making it easy to resell on the market. For those who wish to invest regularly, the quarter-ounce format is particularly suited to a periodic purchase strategy, such as Dollar Cost Averaging (DCA), which allows the purchase price to be smoothed over the long term.
Here are some key features of the Britannia:
- Purity: 999,9 ‰ (fine gold).
- Weight: Varies by denomination (1 ounce, 1/2 ounce, 1/4 ounce, 1/10 ounce).
- Legal tender: Yes, in the UK.
- Design: Effigy of Britannia on the reverse, portrait of the British monarch on the obverse.
- Maker : Royal Mint.
Purchasing gold coins like the Britannia can be a great way to diversify your assets. Smaller sizes, like the quarter ounce, make investing more accessible, even on a budget, while still retaining the benefits of physical gold.
Vera Valor Elizabeth II
The Vera Valor Elizabeth II is a rather unique investment coin, minted in France by AuCOFFRE.com. What sets it apart is its gold content, which is close to 100%, a very high level of purity. The obverse features a portrait of the late Queen Elizabeth II, making it a sought-after coin for collectors, much like the Maple Leaf.
It also has legal tender status, with a face value of 100 New Zealand dollars. Interestingly, some of these coins are issued in limited editions, which may add extra appeal to enthusiasts.
Purity and Titration
The Vera Valor Elizabeth II is distinguished by its exceptional purity, often displayed at 999.900‰, or 24-carat pure gold. This high content makes it a coin highly valued for its intrinsic quality.
Legal Tender and Face Value
Although it is an investment coin, the Elizabeth II Vera Valor is legal tender. Its face value is set at 100 New Zealand dollars, which gives it official recognition, although its market value is much higher and depends on the price of gold.
Attractiveness for Collectors
The portrait of Elizabeth II on the obverse makes this coin particularly attractive to collectors interested in the British monarchy or commemorative coins. It can be considered as a collectible as well as an investment.
Available Formats
The Vera Valor Elizabeth II is typically offered in several sizes, such as the quarter ounce (¼ oz) or the full ounce (1 oz). The quarter ounce size is often preferred for a more accessible investment, especially when gold prices are high, thus allowing for easier portfolio diversification.
Purchasing gold coins, such as the Elizabeth II Vera Valor, should be aligned with your personal financial goals and investment horizon. It's always a good idea to do your research before you take the plunge.
100 Swiss francs Vreneli
The 100 Swiss franc Vreneli coin is a rather unusual investment coin. It is less well-known than its smaller 20 franc counterpart, but it has the distinction of being the largest gold coin ever minted in Switzerland. Production began in 1925, and only 5 were ever put into circulation. Adding to its rarity, some of these coins have been remelted over time. It weighs 000 grams and has a diameter of 32,258 mm.
Good news for collectors: in July 2025, Swissmint will reissue this coin to celebrate its centenary. This new version will feature the original design, with a modern twist. It will feature Vreneli's portrait on the reverse and Swiss symbols such as the cross, the Alps, and the gentian on the obverse. Only 2 copies of this new version will be available, making it a highly sought-after collector's item.
Key Features
- Gross weight : 32,258 gr
- Purity: 900 ‰ (fine gold)
- Diameter: 35 mm
- Thickness : 2,2 mm
- Original print: 5 000 copies
Interest for the investor
The 100 Swiss franc Vreneli coin, especially in its original version, is attractive to investors seeking rare coins with potential for collectible appreciation. Its small quantity and history make it a sought-after item. The 2025 reissue could also attract collectors and investors looking for a commemorative coin.
The collectible aspect of this coin can add a significant premium to the price of the gold it contains, especially for older vintages in good condition.
Gold jewelry
Gold jewelry is a little different from bars or coins. You can wear it, which is nice, but it also retains value. It's a bit of a pleasure investment, but also a heritage investment. If you're thinking about jewelry as an investment, you still have to be careful what you choose.
Antique jewelry
Some antique jewelry, if well-made or with a story, can increase in value over time. It's a bit like a collector's item, but one you can wear.
Solid gold jewelry
For an investment, it's best to aim for solid gold. We often talk about 18 carats (which is 75% pure gold) or even 24 carats if you can find it. The purer the gold, the better the value.
Creations from major fashion houses
Jewelry from well-known brands like Cartier, Van Cleef & Arpels, or Boucheron can also be a good option. These brands have a reputation, and their creations are often sought after, which can help with resale.
You should know that the value of a piece of jewelry isn't just the weight of the gold. There's also the work of the jeweler, the brand, and sometimes even the history of the piece that can increase the price. So, when you're buying a piece of jewelry with the idea of investing in it, you need to consider all of this.
Basically, if you love jewelry and want it to have value, choose antique pieces, solid gold, or creations from well-known brands. It's a way to treat yourself while maintaining heritage value.
gold paper
Paper gold is a way to invest in gold without having to handle the physical metal. Basically, instead of buying coins or bars, you buy financial products that track the price of gold. It's a more technical approach, let's say, and is more suited to those who are already somewhat familiar with the stock market.
There are several ways to do this. Trackers, for example, are funds that attempt to replicate the performance of gold as closely as possible. You can find several, such as the Gold Bullion Securities ETC or the WisdomTree Physical Gold. These trackers are not eligible for the PEA, but you can purchase them through an ordinary securities account (CTO). This is quite convenient because you can buy and sell easily, and there are no storage concerns. However, the taxation on capital gains is the same as for securities accounts, so a flat tax of 30%.
There are also gold certificates, such as the Lucya Cardif issued by BNP Paribas. The idea is the same: track the price of gold without actually owning the metal.
The main advantage of paper gold is its flexibility and liquidity. No need to worry about finding a safe or transporting gold bars. You can invest with smaller amounts initially, and transactions are fast. It's a modern alternative for those who prefer to stay in the financial world.
Here is a small comparison table to give you an idea of the management fees of certain trackers:
| Tracker Name | Mnemonic Code | ISIN | Annual Fees | Currency |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gold Bullion Securities ETC | GBS | GB00B00FHZ82 | 0,40% | EUR |
| WisdomTree Physical Gold | PHAU | JE00B1VS3770 | 0,39% | EUR |
| Amundi Physical Gold ETC | GOLD | FR0013416716 | 0,15% | USD |
Paper gold is a way to gain exposure to the gold market without the logistical constraints of physical metal. It's an attractive option for investors who value simple transactions and liquidity, even if it involves specific taxation and a more financial approach.
Gold is a precious metal that has always interested people. Whether you want to buy it for investment or sell it, our site is here to help. We offer gold bars, coins, and jewelry. Come discover how we can support you in your gold-related projects. Visit our website today to learn more!
In summary: which gold investment should you choose?
So there you have it, gold is truly a safe bet, especially when times are a bit complicated. We've seen that there are several ways to buy it: ingots are good for keeping your money safe over the long term. Coins are easier to resell and can even have a small added value if they are rare or old. Jewelry is nice because you can wear it, but its value depends a lot on the work of the jeweler. Paper gold is another story, more modern, simpler for those who like the stock market. And then there are collector's coins, for those who like history and rarity. In the end, the best thing is often not to put all your eggs in one basket and to keep a small part of your assets in gold, just in case. It can serve as a safety net and then, it can be kept, it can be passed on. It's a bit like insurance for your money.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is gold considered a safe bet?
Gold is often seen as a safe way to keep your money when the economy is doing badly. It doesn't lose much value when other investments decline, such as during financial crises.
Which gold coin is best for a first purchase?
To begin with, it's advisable to choose gold coins that are easy to buy and resell, such as the Napoleon 20 Francs. They are popular and their small size makes them practical.
What is the difference between a gold bar and a gold coin for investing?
Bullion bars are good for long-term storage because they are made of very pure gold. Coins, on the other hand, can have additional value if they are rare or old.
Can you invest in gold without owning physical gold?
Yes, you can buy gold without having to touch it. This is done through shares in companies that mine gold or funds that track its price. This is called paper gold.
How much gold should I buy relative to my total money?
It's not recommended to invest all your money in gold. A small portion, say 5% to 10% of your assets, is a good idea to balance your investments.
What criteria are important for choosing a good gold coin?
To make the right choice, consider the purity of the gold, its weight, and whether the coin is rare or has a history. Coins like the Napoleon, the Maple Leaf, or the American Eagle are good examples.