Owning gold can seem like an impossible dream, but there is a solution for everyone. Depending on your circumstances, your interests and your horizon, we can assist you in creating a selection that is tailored to your specific needs. There are a number of different products that can be combined to create your very own portfolio.
Here are some of the key things you need to know when selecting your gold products:
Where do the coins come from?
The vast majority of the coins we make available come from the official mints of the country concerned, such as Royal Mint in the UK, the US Mint in America or other government Mints. Many of the coins are legal tender, so that, for example, a UK gold sovereign is officially worth just £1, although in almost every case, the value of the coins far exceeds this official value.
We also have extensive contacts in the precious coins markets around the world, which allows us to offer very special coins such as the SS Republic treasure from the bottom of the ocean.
How pure is the gold?
The purity of the gold, or the ‘fineness’, varies slightly from coin to coin. Sometimes the purity is measured as ‘karats’, so a UK Sovereign is 22 karat, alloyed with a small percentage of tin to make it more hard-wearing. 24 karat is pure unalloyed gold, but is often too soft for coinage purposes. The other measure, ‘fineness’, is expressed in decimal form. ‘.999 fineness’, for example, means the coin contains 999 parts of gold per thousand. Like 24 karat, .9999 means literally pure gold, also known as ‘Fine Gold’.
What is a ‘Troy Ounce’?
Gold is measured in Troy Ounces, which is a different measurement than regular ounces. The difference between Troy Ounces and ounces is explained here.
‘Proof’ Coins
‘Proof’ is a term for a specially-struck coin, often with a matt design against a mirror-finish background. Originally a pre-production test coin, it is now usually produced for collectors. Read a more in depth explaintion here.
‘Numismatic’ Coins
‘Numismatics’ relates to the collection and study of coins; the word has its root in the Greek nomisma, meaning coin. Coins described as having ‘numismatic interest’ will tend to have a history, particular characteristics and a degree of rarity that distinguish them from readily available, bullion coinage. Some people are fascinated by ancient coinage, some by more modern coins minted by machines, with some even choosing errors made by mints as their area of interest. If you’re drawn to these types of coins, you’ll want to do plenty of reading and find what is most appealing to you.
‘Graded’ Coins
The key to the value of a gold or precious metal coin is its condition. That’s why ‘grading’ is so important. Most coins, especially the older ones, are ‘graded’ by official bodies. For example, BU means ‘Brilliant Uncirculated’. After inspection, coins are then sealed in transparent containers to protect them. Most Rosland coins are professionally graded before sale. Find out more about coin grading here.
PCGS Security
After 30 years, the PCGS holder is in its Fifth Generation. That’s five generations of the anti-counterfeit enhancements, covert & overt security improvements and added verification features. More information regarding PCGS Security here.
We can help you in your coin selection
Visit our Guide to buying and find out the five easy steps to buying gold,
or read more about what to buy here.
You are always welcome to contact one of our gold experts on 0800 902 0000, to guide you through the selection and purchase process and discuss the best solution for your gold (or silver) needs. This way we can ensure you have a safe, professional and enjoyable experience.