Common Bullion Products: A Guide to Gold and Silver for Investors

For those looking to invest in physical precious metals, understanding the common bullion products available is essential. The market offers a variety of gold and silver coins and bars, each with unique characteristics, denominations, and premiums. This guide will help you navigate the most popular options, providing insights into their composition and average premiums (as of June 2, 2025, subject to market changes).

Gold Bullion Products

Gold bullion is a cornerstone of many investment portfolios, valued for its historical stability and role as a hedge against economic uncertainty. Here are some of the most widely recognized gold bullion products:

1. American Eagle Gold Coin

Denominations: 1 Oz., ½ Oz., ¼ Oz., 1/10 Oz.
Composition: 91.67% Gold, 3% Silver, 5.33% Copper
Average Premium: +$75-80

The American Gold Eagle is one of the most popular and recognizable gold coins in the United States. Its alloy composition makes it more durable and scratch-resistant than pure gold coins, a practical advantage for physical ownership. These coins are highly liquid and widely accepted, making them an excellent choice for both new and experienced gold investors.

2. American Buffalo Gold Coin

Denominations: 1 Oz.
Composition: .9999 Fine Gold
Average Premium: +$145

The American Gold Buffalo is notable for being the first 24-karat (.9999 fine) gold coin minted by the U.S. Mint. Its purity appeals to investors who prefer the highest gold content. While its premium is typically higher than the American Eagle, its pure gold content and iconic design make it a sought-after gold bullion product.

3. Canadian Maple Leaf Gold Coin

Denominations: 1 Oz., ½ Oz., ¼ Oz., 1/10 Oz.
Composition: .9999 Fine Gold
Average Premium: +$60-70

The Canadian Gold Maple Leaf is renowned globally for its exceptional purity, also being .9999 fine gold. Produced by the Royal Canadian Mint, it features a distinctive maple leaf design and is highly liquid in international markets. Its competitive premium and high purity make it a favorite among gold investors worldwide.

4. South African Krugerrand Gold Coin

Denominations: 1 Oz., ½ Oz., ¼ Oz., 1/10 Oz.
Composition: 91.67% Gold, 8.33% Copper
Average Premium: +$50

The South African Krugerrand was the first modern gold bullion coin and remains one of the most widely traded. Like the American Eagle, it is an alloy, making it more robust. Its long history and global recognition contribute to its liquidity and appeal for gold investment.

5. Austrian Philharmonic Gold Coin

Denominations: 1 Oz., ½ Oz., ¼ Oz., 1/10 Oz.
Composition: .9999 Fine Gold
Average Premium: +$60-70

The Austrian Gold Philharmonic is a beautiful coin celebrating the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra. It is also struck from .9999 fine gold, offering high purity. Its artistic design and high liquidity make it an attractive option for gold bullion collectors and investors alike.

6. Gold Bars (RCM, Pamp Suisse, Credit Suisse, etc.)

Denominations: 1 Oz., 10 Oz., 1 Kg, 100g, etc.
Composition: .9999 Fine Gold
Average Premium: +$70

Gold bars are a popular choice for investors looking to acquire larger quantities of gold with lower premiums per ounce compared to coins. Reputable refiners like the Royal Canadian Mint (RCM), PAMP Suisse, and Credit Suisse produce these bars. They are an efficient way to accumulate physical gold and are recognized globally for their purity and weight.

Silver Bullion Products

Silver bullion offers a more accessible entry point into precious metals investment and is often considered both an industrial metal and a monetary asset. Here are some common silver bullion products:

1. American Eagle Silver Coin

Denominations: 1 Oz.
Composition: .999 Fine Silver
Average Premium: +$4.50

The American Silver Eagle is the official silver bullion coin of the United States and is highly popular among silver investors. Its purity and government backing make it a secure and liquid investment. It is widely recognized and easily traded.

2. Canadian Maple Leaf Silver Coin

Denominations: 1 Oz.
Composition: .9999 Fine Silver
Average Premium: +$3.00

The Canadian Silver Maple Leaf is known for its exceptional .9999 purity, making it one of the purest silver coins available. Its iconic design and advanced security features make it a trusted choice for silver bullion acquisition.

3. Austrian Philharmonic Silver Coin

Denominations: 1 Oz.
Composition: .999 Fine Silver
Average Premium: +$3.00

Similar to its gold counterpart, the Austrian Silver Philharmonic is a beautiful and highly liquid silver coin. Its .999 fine silver content and artistic design appeal to a broad range of silver investors.

4. Silver Rounds (A-Mark, OPM, Sunshine, etc.)

Denominations: 1 Oz.
Composition: .999 Fine Silver
Average Premium: +$1.50

Silver rounds are privately minted silver products that typically mimic the size and weight of government-issued coins but do not carry a face value. They are often a more cost-effective way to acquire physical silver due to their lower premiums. Popular mints include A-Mark, OPM, and Sunshine Minting.

5. Silver Bars (Engelhard, JM, A-Mark, etc.)

Denominations: 1 Oz., 10 Oz., 100 Oz.
Composition: .999 Fine Silver
Average Premium: +$1.75

Silver bars are an excellent option for investors looking to buy larger quantities of silver with minimal premiums. They are produced by various reputable refiners and are valued for their weight and purity. Silver bars are a straightforward and efficient way to build a substantial silver bullion holding.

6. 90% Junk Silver (Pre-1965 Half Dollars, Quarters, and Dimes)

Each $1 Face Value Contains: approx. 0.715 Oz. of Silver
Average Price: $24 per Face Dollar

Junk silver refers to U.S. dimes, quarters, and half dollars minted before 1965, which contain 90% silver. While they are circulated coinage, their intrinsic silver content makes them a popular choice for silver investment, particularly for those seeking a more discreet or divisible form of silver. They are valued for their silver content rather than their numismatic value.

Choosing the Right Bullion Product for You

The selection of gold and silver bullion products is vast, catering to different investment goals and preferences. Whether you prioritize the lowest possible premium, the highest purity, or specific designs, there is a product suitable for your needs. It is important to consider factors such as liquidity, storage, and potential future resale when making your choices.

At Polyak Precious Metals, we offer a wide range of these common bullion products and many others. Our Account Executives are available to discuss your investment objectives and help you select the precious metals that best fit your portfolio. We are committed to providing competitive prices and expert guidance to ensure your bullion investment journey is successful.

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The premiums show in this article are as of today’s date and always subject to market changes.