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Bullion

Whether you are a novice or experienced investor, the vast selection available can make buying bullion an intimidating experience. As you make decisions on your specific bullion needs, take the opportunity to learn the purpose of each bullion bar, coin or round based on what you choose to invest in and your budget. 

Both the Gold Buffalo from the U.S. and the Maple Leaf from Canada are top picks for investors. But which one offers a better investment opportunity? We compared the two to discover the best investment option.
For investors, both Krugerrands and Britannias are reliable gold stores. The decision between them might hinge on personal taste, tax considerations, and availability.
The Krugerrand and the Maple Leaf are popular gold bullion coins. But you may be wondering, if the Maple Leaf is purer, why buy the Krugerrand?

Gold and Silver Bullion

Bullion comes in many shapes and sizes. Whether you are a novice or experienced investor, the vast selection available can make buying bullion an intimidating experience. Bullion comes from all over the world from both private and public mints, highlighting the importance of Precious Metals around the globe. APMEX provides the informational tools to help make searching for GoldSilver or Platinum bullion a little easier. There is history and meaning behind every piece of bullion produced. Take the opportunity to learn what bullion is, what common coin types are, who buys bullion and what makes each Precious Metal unique. Having valuable information will help you make an informed decision on your specific bullion needs. WHAT IS BULLION? Simply put, bullion refers to Precious Metals in bulk form, valued by weight. Bullion is seen by many, including numismatists, as being Gold and Silver bars and coins. While Silver and Gold bars and coins are indeed considered bullion, the definition of bullion covers several forms of Precious Metals. By oversimplifying its definition, investors limit its scope and role in Precious Metals buying. There are multiple factors to consider when buying bullion:
  • Precious Metals value: Bullion and Precious Metals values are often mentioned together. any factors such as the economy, supply and demand, trading frequency and political circumstances play a role in bullion value. Whether you are interested in bullion bars or coins, understanding the value will help put your purchasing power into perspective.
  • Bullion shapes: Bullion comes in many shapes, such as bars and rounds, but can also come in non-traditional shapes like stars and Silver bulletsHand-poured Silver is considered bullion, even though it does not have a traditional finish as molded bars do. Some jewelry can even be considered bullion.
  • Coin types: Bullion coins come in a variety of types from around the world. These common coins are considered bullion and are highly valuable, including the Australian Kookaburra and Kangaroo coins, American Eagle and Buffalo coins, Canadian Maple Leafs, Austrian Philharmonics, British Sovereigns and Britannias, Mexican Libertads and Pandas from the Central Mint of China. These coin types are just some of the many bullion coins available.
  • Precious Metal types: Bullion extends to both Platinum and Palladium, which are rarer than Gold and Silver. Despite the rarity, Platinum bullion and Palladium bullion are readily available for investors.

WHY BULLION IS VALUABLE Bullion appeals to many investors because the sizes and shapes vary, providing a plethora of options. The traditional 1 oz Precious Metals sizes are common, but other sizes include 1/10 oz Gold or 5 oz Platinum, and even 1/4 oz Silver or 1/2 oz Palladium. Smaller sizes provide an affordable approach for buyers because they do not require a large financial commitment but still make a nice introduction to bullion collecting. Larger sizes of bullion can also be purchased; sizes like the 10 oz Silver bar or 1 kilo Gold Bars and Rounds. They require more of a financial commitment but add diversity to any Precious Metals portfolio. COLLECTING GOLD AND SILVER BULLION The appeal of investing in bullion is different for each buyer, but the vast array of options to choose from ensures there is something for everyone. Novice and experienced investors can find something within their budget and investment strategy. Having a good understanding of what makes bullion so unique and valuable will go a long way in helping you develop and reach your investment goals.

All Bullion Resources

Image comparing a bullion coin to an ancient coin.

The Difference Between Buying and Selling Numismatics and Bullion 

Differences between numismatics and bullion investing -- while they both involve buying and selling of precious metals, the practices are quite different.

Silver Rounds Vs. Coins Comparison

Should you invest in silver coins or silver rounds? This article explains the distinct advantages of each as an investment.
A gold coin next to a slabbed gold bar.

How Can I Tell if My Gold is Real or Gold-Plated?

Few sensations may be more alarming than the suspicion that you have paid hard-earned dollars to receive a counterfeit gold product. Let’s go over the

American Gold Eagle Mintage Charts (1986-Present)

From 1986 to the most recent release, this article lists the mintage of American Gold Eagles in all four denominations.

Which Makes A Better Long-Term Investment: Gold Jewelry Or Gold Bullion?

Learn about which form of gold is a better store of value: jewelry or bullion. Find out which one is best for you and your
2021 Type 1 and Type 2 Gold and Silver American Eagles.

2021 Type 1 vs Type 2 American Eagles

The 2021 Type 1 Silver and Gold American Eagle coins have iconic designs, while the Type 2 designs offer a modernized look. Learn more about these differences today!

Which Nickels Are Silver?

Have you ever wondered which American nickels are silver? Learn about that and more in this article.

Is Gold & Silver In TEP Worth More?

If you’ve shopped gold or silver, you may have seen the acronym TEP. In this article we explain what it is and why it’s so

Why Private Mints can make Silver Buffalos, but not Gold

Have you ever wondered why private mints can make Silver Buffalos but not Gold Buffalos? We break down the reasons why.
Coin Type - 2022 American Silver Eagle coin.

American Silver Eagle Bullion Coins – 1986 to Present

Learn about the Silver Eagle program’s inception, history, and transformation into a semi-numismatic collectible.
Coin Type - American Gold Eagle coin.

American Gold Eagle Bullion Coins – 1986 to Present

Learn about one of the most successful and popular gold bullion programs in the world.
Coin Type - American Gold Buffalo coin.

American Gold Buffalo Bullion Coins – 2006 to Present

Learn what sets the American Gold Buffalo bullion coin apart from others, its history, and its value as an investment option.
Coin Type - 2022 American Platinum Eagle coin.

American Eagle Platinum Bullion Coins – 1997 to Present

American Eagles are popular bullion coins. We explore what makes the Platinum struck Eagles different from their counterparts.
Coin Type - 2021 American Palladium Eagle coin.

American Eagle Palladium Bullion Coins – 2017 to Present

American Eagles are a popular bullion coin historically struck in Gold and Silver. But since 2017, the series expanded to include Palladium as well.

Why Gold Eagles are only 91.67% Gold – And Why That’s Good! 

Did you know that Gold Eagles are 22k gold instead of 24k? We discuss why that is and why it's not a bad thing.

What Coins Have Silver in Them?

Silver is one of the oldest metals that has been used in coinage, and many coins have Silver in them. What coins are constructed with

What Are U.S. Coins Made Of?

U.S. coinage has changed over the years since its establishment, with various metals being used in coin composition from 1792 to the present day.

Why are Mexican Gold Libertads So Special?

The Gold Libertads are a special coin in its own right because it has no face value, but it is still guaranteed by the Bank

Australian Classic: Gold Kangaroo Coins

The Gold Kangaroo series was originally the Gold Nugget series minted by the Perth Mint, beginning in 1986. The reverse images featured various Gold Nuggets

What Is Silver Bullion?

Demystify the process of investing in Precious Metals with this Silver bullion guide. Learn the Silver bullion basics and find out how to buy and

What is Gold Bullion?

What distinguishes Gold bullion from other types of gold?
Differences between numismatics and bullion investing — while they both involve buying and selling of precious metals, the practices are quite different.
Should you invest in silver coins or silver rounds? This article explains the distinct advantages of each as an investment.
Few sensations may be more alarming than the suspicion that you have paid hard-earned dollars to receive a counterfeit gold product. Let’s go over the
From 1986 to the most recent release, this article lists the mintage of American Gold Eagles in all four denominations.
Learn about which form of gold is a better store of value: jewelry or bullion. Find out which one is best for you and your
The 2021 Type 1 Silver and Gold American Eagle coins have iconic designs, while the Type 2 designs offer a modernized look. Learn more about these differences today!
Have you ever wondered which American nickels are silver? Learn about that and more in this article.
If you’ve shopped gold or silver, you may have seen the acronym TEP. In this article we explain what it is and why it’s so
Have you ever wondered why private mints can make Silver Buffalos but not Gold Buffalos? We break down the reasons why.
Learn about the Silver Eagle program’s inception, history, and transformation into a semi-numismatic collectible.
Learn about one of the most successful and popular gold bullion programs in the world.
Learn what sets the American Gold Buffalo bullion coin apart from others, its history, and its value as an investment option.
American Eagles are popular bullion coins. We explore what makes the Platinum struck Eagles different from their counterparts.
American Eagles are a popular bullion coin historically struck in Gold and Silver. But since 2017, the series expanded to include Palladium as well.
Did you know that Gold Eagles are 22k gold instead of 24k? We discuss why that is and why it’s not a bad thing.
Silver is one of the oldest metals that has been used in coinage, and many coins have Silver in them. What coins are constructed with
U.S. coinage has changed over the years since its establishment, with various metals being used in coin composition from 1792 to the present day.
The Gold Libertads are a special coin in its own right because it has no face value, but it is still guaranteed by the Bank
The Gold Kangaroo series was originally the Gold Nugget series minted by the Perth Mint, beginning in 1986. The reverse images featured various Gold Nuggets
Demystify the process of investing in Precious Metals with this Silver bullion guide. Learn the Silver bullion basics and find out how to buy and
What distinguishes Gold bullion from other types of gold?

More Guides for You

What is Bullion?

Gold, Silver, Platinum, and Palladium all come in various forms and sizes to create a variety of options for investors and collectors.  

What is an Eagle?

Since the U.S. Mint’s American Eagle program began in 1986, Gold and Silver Eagles have remained a popular choice among both investors and collectors

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