Gold bars vs coins
How bars and coins differ on premium, buy-back, flexibility and recognition, and how to choose between them.
Bars usually cost less per gram
A bar is simpler to make than a coin, and a large bar spreads its making cost across more metal. If your aim is the most gold for your money, bars at one ounce and above tend to carry lower premiums.
Coins are easy to recognise and split
Well-known government coins such as the Maple Leaf, Kangaroo and Britannia are recognised widely, which can help when you sell. Several small coins also let you sell part of a holding, where one large bar has to go all at once.
How to choose
Compare the same weight in both forms on the live boards, and look at the buy-back as well as the sell price. The gap between a bar and a coin changes with supply and demand, so a rule of thumb is no substitute for today's numbers.