Bullion

Precious metals have fascinated and captivated people for thousands of years. Today, bullion refers to precious metals that have been refined to high purity for investment purposes, such as gold, silver, platinum, and palladium. Unlike numismatic coins, valued for their rarity, design, and historical significance, bullion bars, rounds, and coins are valued strictly for their precious metal content. Bullion bars, rounds, and coins offer investors a tangible way to own high-purity precious metals, making them a popular choice for wealth preservation and investment diversification. At GOVMINT, we offer an extensive collection of bullion bars, rounds, and coins in gold, silver, platinum, and palladium from government mints and refineries worldwide. Shop our bullion collection above.

What Is Bullion?

Bullion is a type of precious metal (gold, silver, platinum, or palladium) that has been refined to a high metal purity level of .909 or higher, making it appealing for those diversifying their investment portfolio or physically owning fine precious metals. The value of bullion comes from its metal content, based on the fluctuating spot price for the respective metals. While bullion is offered as bars, rounds, and coins, there is a key distinction between these products versus collectible coins. 

Traditional bullion, such as bars, rounds, and coins, only carry a small premium above the precious metal spot price whereas numismatic or collectible coins carry additional premiums due to the coin’s minting process, rarity or mintage, unique designs, and historical significance. These additional premiums often make numismatic or collectible coins more expensive per ounce than ungraded bullion bars, rounds, and bullion coins. 

Regardless, bullion bars, rounds, and coins offer investors a direct way to invest in precious metals. 

What is a Bullion Coin?

Bullion coins are issued by sovereign mints as non-circulating legal tender (NCLT) and will both carry a denomination and have a set weight and purity. Bullion coins can be issued in a variety of sizes including 1 oz., ½ oz., ¼ oz., and even 1-gram issues, amongst other options. In addition to being a compact way to purchase precious metals like silver and gold, many bullion coins feature iconic designs and are issued annually.        

The United States Mint began offering modern bullion coins in 1986 with the introduction of the bullion Silver and Gold American Eagles series, which were later expanded to include Platinum and Palladium Eagles. Other United States Mint series, such as the American Gold Buffalo and America the Beautiful 5 oz. Quarter, also feature bullion versions. 

Many government mints offer at least one bullion coin issue. Some prominent examples from around the world include the Royal Canadian Mint's Silver and Gold Maple Leaf bullion coins, the China Mint's Silver and Gold Panda bullion coins, and The Royal Mint's Silver and Gold Britannia bullion coins.

Why Buy Bullion?

As mentioned previously, bullion offers investors and stackers direct access to owning precious metals to diversify their portfolio or as a safe-haven asset to preserve wealth during economic instability. There are numerous reasons why bullion products have shown moderate levels of consistent value throughout history:

Bullion’s Historical Role as a Safe-Haven Asset

Throughout history, precious metals like gold and silver have been used as currency and stored wealth. In times of economic uncertainty, they have proven reliable as safe-haven assets when other investments falter. Their intrinsic value, limited supply, and consistent demand have made them a reliable form of wealth preservation. While gold and silver carry more historical evidence spanning thousands of years, platinum and palladium have quickly become sought-after assets for their rarity and utility in various industries. 

Price Points for All Levels of Investors

Bullion is available at varying price points, depending on the precious metal and its current spot price. Given the four different types of bullion metals and their varying price points, both novice and seasoned investors can find an option for them. Silver, typically the most affordable option, provides a cost-effective entry point, while gold, platinum, and palladium offer different levels of investment. Buyers can purchase bullion in different weights and sizes, such as small bars and rounds, allowing them to scale their investments over time according to their budgets.

Bullion’s Intrinsic Value & Industrial Demand

The value of bullion is reinforced by strong industrial demand. Gold, for example, is essential in electronics, aerospace, and medical equipment, while silver is used in everything from solar panels to medical devices. Platinum and palladium are also critical in the automotive and chemical industries, maintaining a steady demand across the globe. This widespread industrial use, combined with their scarcity, supports the consistent value of bullion precious metals.

Physical Ownership Opportunity

Owning physical bullion offers a level of control over your investment, unlike stocks or digital assets. Gold, silver, platinum, and palladium bullion can be stored securely on your property or in a safe depository box, offering both privacy and flexibility not available with other investments. While some types of bullion can also be included in an IRA through an IRS-approved custodian, you’d have to forego physical ownership of your property and work with the custodian to house your bullion elsewhere while it’s a part of your IRA. 

How to Buy Bullion from GOVMINT

Buying bullion from GOVMINT is secure and seamless. As an industry leader with decades of experience and customer service, we provide authentic bullion products for the world’s most reputable mints and refineries, ensuring high standards of purity and quality. Whether you’re purchasing gold, silver, platinum, or palladium bullion, you can shop confidently knowing that each piece is guaranteed for authenticity, purity, and weight. Our expert customer service team is available to assist you in selecting the right bullion products to suit your needs and investment goals. Shop bullion products with GOVMINT today!