Two ways to make a bar
Cast bars are formed by pouring molten metal into a mould. Minted bars are produced from prepared metal blanks and struck or stamped to create a more uniform finish. Surface appearance can therefore differ without the bars necessarily having different fineness. Always check the actual refiner specification.
Packaging is part of the description
A minted bar may be supplied in sealed assay packaging, while a cast bar can be supplied differently. Confirm what accompanies the exact product. A certificate, serial number or sealed pack can help document an item, but no single feature should be treated as conclusive proof of authenticity.
Compare ownership costs
Compare bars containing an equivalent amount of fine gold, including purchase premium and all quoted charges. Think about storage and whether you would want to sell in stages. One larger bar may suit a different purpose from several smaller units; the choice should account for flexibility as well as the initial price.
Ask about availability
Stocked-on-order products require particular attention to sourcing and expected fulfilment. Agree the price, payment terms and delivery or storage arrangements in writing. Do not infer an immediate dispatch date from a catalogue photograph or a starting price.
BEFORE YOU DECIDE
Understand the product.
Ask about the details.
Request a current written quotation and confirm all charges, availability and fulfilment terms. Precious metals can fall in value. Collector premiums may not be recovered on resale.
SPEAK TO OUR TEAMGeneral educational information, not financial, investment or tax advice. Consider your circumstances, conduct independent research and seek qualified advice where appropriate. Past performance does not indicate future results. Tax rules and product specifications should be checked at the time of purchase.