APMEX offers a wide range of precious metals, including silver and gold bullion coins, bars, and collectibles. While security is an important consideration, not every item ships in tamper-evident packaging.
How Packaging Varies by Product
Packaging details vary depending on the product type and how it’s sourced or sold:
- Government-Issued Bullion Coins: Popular bullion coins such as American Gold Eagles, Canadian Maple Leafs, and South African Krugerrands are often shipped in tamper-evident, mint-sealed tubes or boxes when purchased in full, original mint quantities. If coins are bought individually or in smaller quantities, they’re typically housed in protective capsules, which are secure but not tamper-evident.
- Certified Graded Coins: Coins that have been authenticated and graded by leading services like PCGS or NGC are enclosed in sealed plastic holders, often referred to as slabs. These holders include a certification label and are designed to be tamper-resistant, preserving the integrity of the coin and its grade.
- Bullion Bars and Rounds: Many bars and rounds, especially those from top refiners like PAMP Suisse, Valcambi, or Engelhard, come in tamper-evident packaging such as sealed assay cards, blister packs, or plastic sleeves. Smaller bars, fractional rounds, or generic bullion may arrive in other packaging depending on the refiner and quantity purchased.
- Loose Coins, Raw Numismatics, and Accessories: Items such as circulated coins, raw collectible pieces, or jewelry do not come in tamper-evident packaging. These products are placed in capsules, envelopes, or other packaging to prevent surface damage during transit, but the materials are not designed to show signs of tampering.
Packaging Summary
Product Type | Tamper-Evident Packaging? | Typical Packaging |
Government Bullion Coins | Yes (if mint-sealed) | Mint tubes or boxes |
Certified Graded Coins | Yes | Sealed grading slabs |
Bullion Bars and Rounds | Depends | Assay cards, blister packs |
Loose Coins or Bars | No | Coin capsules or sleeves |
Raw Numismatics | No | Protective holders or envelopes |
Jewelry, Accessories | No | Basic protective packaging |
What Buyers Should Know
While tamper-evident packaging is standard for many bullion and graded products, it is not guaranteed for every item. If a product’s packaging method is important to your buying decision, whether for resale, collection, or peace of mind, it’s a good idea to review the product listing details carefully or reach out to the APMEX team for clarification before completing your order.
Regardless of packaging type, APMEX’s priority is your security and satisfaction. Every shipment is handled with care to ensure that it arrives safely, securely, and exactly as described.
If you have additional questions about a specific product or want to confirm packaging details before ordering, APMEX’s knowledgeable customer service team is ready to help. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a seasoned investor, our goal is to provide a transparent, reliable experience from purchase to delivery.