OTC Metals Profit Calculator

Calculation Value
Total Weight 0.00 g
Pure Metal Content 0.00 g
Estimated Purity (%) 0.00%
Full Spot Value $0.00
Liquidity Value $0.00
Payout $0.00
Margin $0.00
Margin as % of Payout 0.00%

This calculator provides estimates. Actual values may vary.

Instructions & Features

Install as a PWA

Install as a PWA

This website is a Progressive Web App (PWA). You can install it to your mobile device or desktop computer for faster access, full-screen mode, and offline capabilities.

Mobile (Android Chrome):

  1. Open the Chrome menu (the three dots in the top-right corner).
  2. Tap Add to Home screen or Install App.
  3. Follow the prompts to create an icon on your home screen.

Mobile (iOS Safari):

  1. Tap the Share icon (square with an upward arrow) in Safari.
  2. Scroll down and select Add to Home Screen.
  3. Confirm the name and tap Add.

Desktop (Chrome/Edge):

  1. Look for the Install icon in your browser’s address bar, or open the browser menu.
  2. Select Install Scrap Calculator (wording may vary).
  3. Once installed, the app opens in its own window and appears in your apps list.

Installing the PWA ensures a smoother, app-like experience and may allow offline use for certain features.

Navigating the Key Tabs

Navigating the Key Tabs

This web app is organized into four main tabs at the top:

  • Calculator: The core tool for entering BID prices, adding metal items, and getting real-time calculations on spot value, payouts, and margins.
  • Instructions: The page you’re on now—includes guides for using the calculator, reference information for Karats, installation as a PWA, and more.
  • Settings: Configure your default rates, units of measurement, and company details used for invoices or estimates.
  • Reference Guide: A comprehensive resource covering bullion products, refining methods, and authenticity verification procedures for precious metals.
How to Use the OTC Metals Profit Calculator

How to Use the OTC Metals Profit Calculator

The OTC Metals Profit Calculator is designed to help you quickly and accurately estimate the value of your metal items. Follow these steps:

  1. Enter the BID Price: Input the current market BID price per ounce of gold (e.g., 1900.00). This value is the basis for all your calculations.
  2. Set Your Rates: Enter the Liquidity Rate (%) (the percentage of the spot price you receive, default is 95%) and the Payout Rate (%) (the percentage you pay your customers, default is 80%).
  3. Add Metal Items: Click the "Add Item" button to insert a new metal item. For each item, enter:
    • Weight (in your chosen unit: grams, troy ounces, or pennyweight)
    • Purity (as a percentage representing the metal’s fineness)
  4. Calculate: Click the "Calculate" button to process all inputs in real time. The calculator will display:
    • Total Weight
    • Full Spot Value
    • Liquidity Value
    • Payout Amount
    • Margin & Margin Percentage
    • Pure Metal Content and Estimated Purity
  5. OTC Sheet: Click "Show OTC Sheet" to view a reference table with common metal purities and their corresponding payout values.
  6. Invoice Generation: When ready, click "Print Invoice" to generate a printable invoice including your company details and transaction summary.
  7. Estimate Printing: Click "Print Estimate" to print a detailed estimate. You will be prompted to confirm the estimated amount.
Legend: Karats and Percentages

Legend: Karats and Percentages

Below is a quick reference guide to common gold karats and their corresponding purity percentages:

  • 24 Karat: 99.99% (Pure Gold)
  • 22 Karat: Approximately 91.67%
  • 18 Karat: 75.00%
  • 14 Karat: Approximately 58.33%
  • 10 Karat: Approximately 41.67%
  • 8 Karat: Approximately 33.33%
Sell Items Feature Overview

Sell Items Feature Overview

The Sell Items Feature on MazalGold.com lets you turn your precious metals into cash by shipping them for melt and assay through our host, Aurora Gold & Silver, LLC. Whether you have gold jewelry, scrap metals, or bullion, this feature helps you streamline the process from estimation to final payout.

  • Locking Your Price: You can lock in your metals’ spot price upon arrival at Aurora Gold & Silver, or request a price lock immediately after dropping off your package at FedEx (available 9am–9pm Central).
  • Payment Timeline: After receiving, melting, and assaying your items, Aurora Gold & Silver generally completes payout within 5 business days.
  • Shipping Options: Use your own shipping label or request a pre-paid, insured FedEx label (the cost may be deducted from your final payout). Follow all packaging guidelines to maintain insurance coverage.
  • Representations & Warranties: By sending items, you represent that you own them free and clear and that they are not sourced from illegal activities. You may need to provide valid photo ID to complete the sale.
  • Final Sale & Non-Passing Items: Once your payout is processed, the transaction is final. If items do not pass inspection (e.g., counterfeit), they may be subject to hold, destruction, or other actions as outlined in the terms.
About Aurora Gold & Silver, LLC

About Aurora Gold & Silver, LLC

Aurora Gold & Silver, LLC is a trusted precious metals buyer headquartered in Aurora, Illinois. Specializing in gold, silver, platinum, and palladium, the company offers competitive evaluations, straightforward pricing, and secure, insured shipping options. Their transparent process ensures a smooth and professional experience for all sellers.

For complete details, please review:

By using the Sell Items Feature, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to these terms.

Features Overview

Features Overview

  • Real-Time Calculations: Inputs update calculations immediately as you change values.
  • Customizable Rates & Units: Save default Liquidity and Payout rates and choose your preferred unit.
  • Multiple Line Items: Add as many metal items as needed for a detailed breakdown.
  • OTC Reference Sheet: Quickly reference standard metal purities and their corresponding payout values.
  • Invoice Printing: Generate professional invoices including company and transaction details.

With these instructions, feature details, and the gold karat legend, you should be able to easily use the OTC Metals Profit Calculator. For further assistance or feedback, please visit our Contact page.

Change Log / Update Log

Change Log / Update Log

v1.0 – Initial Launch

  • Core Calculator Released: Provided basic spot value calculations for gold items.
  • Simple UI: A single-page experience with minimal styling and no tabs.
  • Basic Explanations: Short text instructions and disclaimers.

v1.1 – Feature Expansion

  • Multiple Metals Support: Extended calculator to handle silver, platinum, and palladium.
  • OTC Sheet Added: Introduced an on-demand reference of common purity levels and payouts.
  • Improved Styling: Began using a shared CSS file for a more consistent design.

v2.0 – Major UI Overhaul

  • Multi-Tab Navigation: Separated the Calculator, Instructions, Settings, and Reference Guide into distinct tabs.
  • Enhanced Calculator Layout: Split chart, inputs, and results into clear sections.
  • Settings Tab: Allowed users to configure default rates, measurement units, and company invoice details.

v2.1 – Reference Guide & Sell Items Feature

  • Comprehensive Reference Guide: Added in-depth bullion information, refining processes, and authenticity verification.
  • Sell Items Feature: Streamlined the process of shipping metals to Aurora Gold & Silver for melt/assay and quick payout.
  • Expanded Instructions: Provided detailed outlines for each new feature, with emphasis on refining timeframes, shipping labels, and price lock options.

v2.2 – Progressive Web App (PWA) & Instructions Revamp

  • PWA Integration: Enabled installation on mobile and desktop devices for faster, offline-friendly access.
  • Revamped Instructions Section: Updated to include step-by-step guides, PWA install instructions, thorough “How to Use” details, and direct links to relevant external resources.
  • UI Polishes & Minor Fixes: Smoothed out responsiveness on mobile screens, improved form labels, and refined disclaimers.

Looking Ahead

  • Ever-Expanding Reference Guide: Continue growing the bullion and refining knowledge base to include additional metals, advanced assay methods, and new product lines.
  • Multi-Metal & Custom Line Items for Invoice Generation: Enhance the calculator and invoice functionality to seamlessly handle multiple metal types and custom item entries.
  • Integrated Pre-Paid Shipping Labels: Offer an option to generate or request fully insured, pre-paid FedEx labels directly from the platform for selling items to Aurora Gold & Silver.
  • Advanced Analytics (Future Consideration): Potentially collect and analyze anonymous usage metrics to further improve the user experience.
  • Localization & Multi-Language Support (Future Consideration): Explore translations to serve a broader international audience.

Settings

Configure your default rates, unit of measurement, and company details for invoices.

Company Information

Reference Guide

Welcome to our comprehensive Reference Guide – your one-stop resource for modern bullion products and refining insights. Explore detailed information on precious metals across gold, silver, platinum, and palladium. We break down each product’s total weight, purity, and net metal content, covering everything from government‑minted coins and private refinery bars to historic collectible coins. Additionally, our guide dives into the technical processes behind refining, including assay methods, industry purity standards, and sustainable recovery practices, helping you stay ahead in an ever-evolving market.

Disclaimer & Key Points
  • “1 oz” Coins: For 22k items, your “Weight” includes alloy, but net metal is exactly 1 troy oz.
  • Historic Coins: Pre‑1933 U.S. gold or older European coins often have .900 fineness, yet remain popular bullion.
  • Modern Bullion Bars: Typically .999–.9999 purity, each stamped with brand, weight, serial number, etc.
  • Market Premiums: Availability, brand, collector interest, and demand can significantly affect premiums over spot.

Karat Jewelry

Understanding Karat Jewelry

Karat jewelry represents a unique intersection between investment-grade precious metals and wearable art. Unlike bullion—which is valued solely for its high purity and weight—karat jewelry must balance gold content with durability, intricate design, and superior craftsmanship. This makes its valuation more complex, as both the metal’s intrinsic value and the aesthetic or brand premium come into play.

  • Alloy Composition: The “karat” designation specifies the ratio of pure gold to the total alloy, based on a 24‑part system. For example:
    • 24K: Nearly 100% pure gold (rarely used in jewelry due to softness).
    • 18K: Approximately 75% gold, with the remaining 25% made up of metals like copper, silver, or palladium. This mix provides a good balance of beauty and durability.
    • 14K: Roughly 58.5% gold, combined with higher percentages of base metals to increase hardness and wear resistance—ideal for everyday jewelry.
    • 10K: Contains about 41.7% gold and is often used in more affordable pieces.
    These alloying metals not only adjust the color—producing yellow, rose, or white gold—but also significantly enhance the strength and longevity of the jewelry.
  • Design, Craftsmanship & Finishing: Beyond the metal content, the overall value of jewelry is heavily influenced by its design and craftsmanship. Artistic detailing, innovative design techniques, and finishing methods (such as hand-engraving or high-polish treatments) can add substantial premium over the raw metal value. Reputable hallmarks and designer signatures also help confirm authenticity and boost collectible or resale value.
  • Testing Considerations for Jewelry: While many of the tests used for bullion—such as acid tests, electronic conductivity measurements, and XRF—apply to karat jewelry, there are additional challenges:
    • Surface Plating & Soldering: Many jewelry items are gold‐plated or feature solder joints. A superficial test may only reveal the plating rather than the solid core. It is essential to file or scratch a discreet area to expose the underlying alloy.
    • Complex Shapes: Unlike flat bullion bars, jewelry pieces often have intricate shapes or set gemstones, which can interfere with tests like density or magnet checks. Multiple tests at different points are recommended to obtain a reliable reading.
    • Multi-Method Approach: Because of these challenges, combining visual inspection, acid or electronic testing, and, when possible, non-destructive methods (such as XRF) provides a more complete picture of the item’s true purity.
  • Market Premiums and Trade Considerations: The price of karat jewelry is influenced by more than just its gold content. A well-crafted piece can command a premium based on brand, design, and rarity. However, buyers should verify that hallmarks and test results match the purported karat. For example, a piece marked as 14K might in fact be gold‑filled or only partially solid gold if it fails a multi‑test verification. Confirming purity through chemical or electronic methods is essential before making a purchase.

In summary, understanding karat jewelry means appreciating both its intrinsic gold value and the added premium for design and artistry. A multi‑method testing approach—including visual, chemical, and electronic tests—ensures you accurately assess a piece’s true worth, helping you make confident, informed decisions whether you’re buying over the counter, as a collector, or as part of a side business.

Precious Metals Refining Process

Overview & Methods

Refining converts lower-purity or mixed-metal scrap into high-purity bullion. Modern refineries employ a combination of traditional and advanced techniques, including:

  • Smelting (Pyrometallurgy): Melts the material at high temperatures with fluxes to separate bulk impurities. Traditional cupellation and modern doré furnace operations concentrate precious metals, removing base metals and generating a semi-refined product for further processing.
  • Chemical Refining – Aqua Regia: Dissolves impure gold (or other PGMs) using a mixture of nitric and hydrochloric acids. The insoluble materials (e.g., silver chloride) are filtered out and the pure metal is precipitated, achieving purities of 99.95%–99.99%.
  • Chemical Refining – Cyanidation: Mainly used for gold extraction from ores, cyanidation leaches gold into solution. The gold is then recovered by cementation or adsorption, followed by further refining. While highly efficient (90%+ recovery), it is typically followed by additional processes for final purity.
  • Chlorination & Electrorefining: The Miller process (chlorination) uses chlorine gas to remove base metals from molten gold, yielding approximately 99.5% purity, while the Wohlwill electrorefining process further purifies gold to 99.99% by dissolving gold anodes in a chloride electrolyte and plating pure gold onto a cathode.

These methods are often used in sequence to optimize throughput and purity: smelting concentrates the metal, chemical processes dissolve and separate it, and electrorefining produces market-ready high-purity bullion.

Industry Purity Standards & Assay Methods

Refined precious metals are held to strict purity standards established by industry bodies such as the LBMA, ASTM, and ISO. For example:

  • Purity Standards: Gold is typically refined to at least 99.9% purity, silver to 99.9%, while platinum and palladium are commonly refined to 99.95%. LBMA’s Good Delivery specifications ensure large bars meet or exceed these thresholds.
  • Assay Methods: Refineries use a range of techniques to verify purity:
    • Fire Assay: The gold standard for precise measurement, involving melting and cupellation to isolate precious metals.
    • X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF): A non-destructive method that rapidly measures surface composition.
    • ICP-OES/ICP-MS: Advanced laboratory methods that offer multi-element analysis with high accuracy.
    • Acid Tests & Density Checks: Quick, on-site tests used for initial screening of metal content.

Regulatory bodies such as LBMA, ASTM (e.g., ASTM B562 for gold, ASTM B413 for silver), and ISO (e.g., ISO 24018 for 1kg gold bars) help standardize these processes and ensure that assay results are consistent and trustworthy.

Recovery from Scrap & Payout Considerations

Refiners recover precious metals from a variety of scrap sources – such as jewelry filings, dental scrap, electronic waste, and catalytic converters – and calculate payouts based on the net recoverable metal.

  • Scrap Sources: Mixed scrap is pre-sorted to separate different alloys. Each type (e.g., 14k gold jewelry vs. dental gold) is processed to maximize precious metal extraction.
  • Melt Loss & Fees: Even under optimal conditions, a small percentage of metal may be lost due to process inefficiencies or retained in slag. Refiners typically deduct a standard percentage (often around 1–2%) as their fee or for process losses.
  • Payout Calculations: The final payment is based on the assayed fine metal content after deductions, ensuring that clients receive compensation for the full value of the recoverable precious metal.

Understanding these details helps ensure transparency in transactions and that you’re paid fairly for the material submitted for refining.

Technological Innovations & Sustainability

Modern precious metals refining is not only about achieving high purity; it’s also evolving to be more efficient and sustainable. Key innovations include:

  • Automation & AI: Robotics and advanced process controls optimize operating conditions, reduce human error, and improve safety and throughput.
  • Advanced Chemical Techniques: Innovations such as biodiesel-based solvents for gold recovery and non-cyanide leaching (e.g., thiosulfate) are reducing the environmental impact of refining.
  • Continuous Electrorefining: New cell designs (with rotating or vibrating cathodes) improve current efficiency and metal recovery, reducing energy consumption.
  • Recycling & Closed-Loop Systems: Cutting-edge refineries recycle acids, water, and other reagents, achieving near-zero liquid discharge and reducing waste while recovering additional metals from slag and dust.
  • Sustainable Sourcing & Certification: Programs by organizations like the LBMA require refiners to adhere to environmental and ethical standards, ensuring responsible production throughout the supply chain.

These advancements not only enhance metal recovery and purity but also significantly reduce the environmental footprint of refining operations.

Counterfeit & Authenticity Verification

Verification Techniques

When buying gold or other precious metals, ensuring authenticity and accurate purity is paramount. A combination of tests helps you verify that you’re getting genuine metal. Below is a comprehensive guide that explains the science behind each method, practical usage tips, and strategies to mitigate risk and maximize profit.

1. Visual Inspection with a Loupe

The Science Behind It: A jeweler’s loupe (usually 10x magnification) lets you inspect an item for clear hallmark stamps and quality engravings. Genuine gold items have consistent markings (such as “10K”, “14K”, “585”, or “750”) and display the expected color and heft. Although the “feel” or perceived density is subjective and develops with experience, it remains a valuable initial indicator.

Practical Application: Begin with a visual examination. Use your loupe to find hallmarks in inconspicuous areas (like the inside of a ring or the back of a pendant). Note any signs of plating, uneven finishes, or inconsistent markings.

Benefits: Quick, non-destructive, and low-cost. Limitations: Cannot confirm purity alone; counterfeiters can mimic markings. Rely on experience and use this test as a first step.

2. Magnet Test (Including the Magnet Slide Test)

The Science Behind It: Gold and silver are non‑magnetic. A strong neodymium magnet will not attract real gold, whereas ferromagnetic base metals (like iron or nickel) will be drawn to the magnet. The magnet slide test uses eddy currents: when a magnet is slid down a non‑magnetic surface against a genuine gold or silver item, the induced eddy currents create a magnetic counter force that slows the magnet’s slide.

Practical Application: Bring a strong magnet close to the item. If it sticks, the item likely contains non‑gold metals. For flat coins or bars, perform a slide test by gently sliding the magnet down a smooth surface; a slow, controlled descent suggests the proper conductivity of genuine metal.

Benefits: Fast, non-destructive, and inexpensive. Limitations: Non-magnetic counterfeits (e.g., brass, copper, or tungsten-based items) will pass a simple magnet test, so the slide test is important for further verification.

3. Stone and Acid Scratch Test

The Science Behind It: This classic method depends on the chemical reactivity of metals. A small amount of gold is rubbed onto a dark testing stone. Acid solutions, calibrated for specific karats, are then applied. Pure gold is inert and resists the acid, whereas alloy metals in lower-karat gold react and dissolve.

Practical Application: Lightly file an inconspicuous spot on the item to expose the true metal. Rub the item on a touchstone to leave a streak, then apply drops of acid (starting with a weaker solution for 10K, then moving to 14K, etc.) to bracket the item’s true purity.

Benefits: Inexpensive and provides a qualitative measure of purity. Limitations: It’s slightly destructive (leaves a minor scratch) and requires careful handling of acids, which can degrade over time.

4. Electronic Conductivity Testing (Kee Gold Tester)

The Science Behind It: Electronic testers measure a metal’s electrical conductivity, which correlates with its alloy composition. A handheld probe applies a small electrical current; based on Ohm’s law, the resulting resistance indicates the metal’s purity. Gold, being highly conductive, shows characteristic readings that vary with karat.

Practical Application: After filing a small area to remove plating, place the probe on the item. The device quickly displays the karat value (e.g., 14K or 18K). It’s an ideal non-destructive alternative to acid testing, especially for items where you want to avoid chemical exposure.

Benefits: Fast, non-destructive, and ideal for routine checks. Limitations: Works best on gold and platinum only; it cannot test silver. Results can be skewed by surface plating if not properly prepared, and regular calibration is required.

5. X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF) Analyzer

The Science Behind It: XRF analyzers emit high-energy X-rays that excite the atoms in a sample, causing them to emit secondary (fluorescent) X-rays at characteristic energies. By measuring these energies and intensities, the device determines the elemental composition of the item.

Practical Application: Place the item on the analyzer’s window (or use a handheld unit) and run a scan, which typically takes about 30 seconds. The device then provides a breakdown of the percentages of gold, silver, copper, and other elements present, helping you confirm the item’s claimed purity.

Benefits: Highly accurate and non-destructive; it provides a detailed composition analysis. Limitations: Only tests the surface (about 1 mm deep), so thick plating can mask the core material. XRF units are expensive and require proper calibration and training.

6. Sigma Metalytics Precious Metal Verifier (PMV)

The Science Behind It: The Sigma PMV uses a high-frequency electromagnetic field to induce eddy currents within the item. It then measures the metal’s resistivity and compares the result to preset profiles (such as “Gold 22K” or “Sterling Silver”). This method assesses the bulk properties of the metal, rather than just the surface.

Practical Application: Place a coin or small bar on the sensor pad, select the appropriate preset, and let the device quickly indicate whether the item’s internal composition matches the expected profile.

Benefits: Fast and non-destructive, it is particularly effective for detecting items with a fake core or inconsistent alloy. Limitations: It provides a pass/fail result without an exact purity value and requires the correct profile to be selected. It is best used in conjunction with other tests.

7. Specific Gravity (Density) Test

The Science Behind It: Based on Archimedes’ principle, this method measures density by comparing an item’s weight in air to its weight when submerged in water. Genuine gold has a known density (approximately 19.3 g/cc), so deviations can indicate a fake or a different metal.

Practical Application: Weigh the item in air, then submerge it in water and measure the apparent weight loss. Calculate the density and compare it to standard values for gold or silver. This method is most effective for uniform items like coins or bars.

Benefits: Non-destructive and based on a fundamental physical property. Limitations: It requires precise measurements and a controlled setup. Items with complex shapes or inclusions (like stones) may give misleading results. Additionally, metals like tungsten have densities close to gold, so this test should be used alongside others.

8. Ping Test (Acoustic Resonance)

The Science Behind It: When struck, coins and bars vibrate at characteristic frequencies that depend on their density and elasticity. Gold and silver produce a clear, sustained ringing sound, whereas base metals tend to emit a dull thud.

Practical Application: Gently tap or “ping” the item—either manually or using a dedicated tester or smartphone app—to listen to its resonance. A genuine coin or bar should have a consistent tone that matches known standards for that metal.

Benefits: Quick, cost-effective, and completely non-destructive. Limitations: The test is somewhat subjective if relying solely on your ear. Ambient noise or minor differences in alloy composition may affect the sound. It is best used as an initial screening tool in combination with other methods.

Risk Mitigation & Profit Optimization Strategies

No single test is foolproof. Here’s how to integrate these methods effectively:

  • Combine Tests: Use multiple tests (e.g., magnet + acid + electronic testing) to cover the limitations of each method.
  • Prepare Surfaces: Always file or scratch an inconspicuous area to remove plating, ensuring you’re testing the underlying metal.
  • Calibration and Maintenance: Regularly calibrate your electronic testers and replace acid or probe solutions as needed.
  • Test Multiple Points: For items like chains or jewelry with several components, test various areas to detect inconsistencies.
  • Educate Yourself: Build experience by comparing test results with known standards and reference charts, and consider using smartphone apps for quantitative analysis of acoustic or density tests.
  • Document and Compare: Keep records of test results and reference data to ensure consistency and to make informed buying decisions.

By carefully integrating these methods, you can confidently verify the authenticity and purity of gold and other precious metals—ensuring you pay a fair price and avoid costly mistakes, whether you’re buying over the counter, collecting as a hobby, or pursuing a side business.

Gold Bullion

Modern Gold Coins
Product Name Mint/Origin Weight Purity Net Gold Content Notes
American Gold Eagle (1 oz) United States Mint ~1.0909 troy oz total 22k ≈ 91.67% 1.000 troy oz Au Introduced 1986. Fractionals: 1/2, 1/4, 1/10 oz.
American Gold Buffalo (1 oz) United States Mint 1.000 troy oz total .9999 (24k) 1.000 troy oz Au First 24k gold coin from US (2006). Buffalo nickel design.
South African Krugerrand Rand Refinery (S.A.) ~1.0909 troy oz total 22k ≈ 91.67% 1.000 troy oz Au Began 1967. The original modern gold bullion coin. Fractionals exist.
Canadian Gold Maple Leaf Royal Canadian Mint 1.000 troy oz total .9999 (24k) 1.000 troy oz Au Launched 1979. Fractionals: 1/2, 1/4, 1/10, etc.
British Gold Britannia The Royal Mint (UK) ~1.093 troy oz total (pre‑2013 22k)
1.000 troy oz total (2013+ .9999)
.917 (pre‑2013)
.9999 (24k) after 2013
1.000 troy oz Au Debuted 1987. Fractionals available. Purity changed to .9999 in 2013.
Austrian Gold Philharmonic Austrian Mint 1.000 troy oz total .9999 (24k) 1.000 troy oz Au Since 1989. Euro‑denominated. Fractionals: 1/2, 1/4, 1/10.
Chinese Gold Panda People’s Bank of China Pre‑2016: 1.000 troy oz
2016+: 30 g (~0.9645 oz)
.999 (24k) 1.000 oz or 30 g net Au (depends on year) Annual Panda design. Fractionals: 1/2, 1/4, 1/10, etc.
Australian Gold Kangaroo Perth Mint (Australia) 1.000 troy oz total .9999 (24k) 1.000 troy oz Au Started 1986 as “Nugget.” Annual design changes, fractionals down to 1/20 oz.
Mexican Gold Libertad Casa de Moneda (Mexico) 1.000 troy oz total .999 (24k) 1.000 troy oz Au No face value (legal tender by weight). Fractionals: 1/2, 1/4, etc.
British Gold Sovereign The Royal Mint (UK) ~0.256 troy oz total 22k (~91.67%) ~0.2354 troy oz Au Minted since 1817. Half Sovereign ~0.1177 oz net gold.
Historical Gold Coins
Product Name Origin Weight Purity Net Gold Content Notes
Mexican 50 Peso (Centenario) Mexico ~41.67 g total (~1.339 troy oz) .900 ~1.2057 troy oz Au Large gold coin minted 1921–1947 (often re‑struck).
Pre‑1933 U.S. Double Eagle U.S. Mint ~1.075 troy oz total .900 ~0.9675 troy oz Au “$20 Saint‑Gaudens” minted 1907–33. Historic collectible bullion.
Latin Monetary Union 20 Francs Europe (France, Swiss, etc.) 6.45 g total (~0.207 troy oz) .900 ~0.1867 troy oz Au E.g., French “Rooster,” Swiss “Vreneli.” Standard for LMU 20 Franc coins.
Austria 100 Corona Austrian Mint ~1.0926 troy oz total .900 ~0.9803 troy oz Au Often re‑struck with “1915” date.
Austria 4 Ducat (restrike) Austrian Mint 13.96 g total (~0.449 troy oz) .986 ~0.4430 troy oz Au Very thin, large diameter. “1915” restrikes are common.
British Half‑Sovereign The Royal Mint (UK) ~0.129 troy oz total 22k (~91.67%) ~0.1177 troy oz Au Smaller version of Sovereign. Typically 3.99 g total mass.
Gold Bullion Bars
Product Name Refiner/Mint Weight Purity Net Gold Content Notes
PAMP Suisse Bars PAMP (Switzerland) 1 g up to 1 kg total .9999 Matches labeled weight (1 oz, 100 g, etc.) “Lady Fortuna” design & assay. LBMA recognized.
Credit Suisse Valcambi for Credit Suisse 1 oz, 10 oz, etc. .9999 E.g. 1 oz bar yields 1 oz net Au Classic Swiss bars, each with unique serial & certificate.
Valcambi CombiBar Valcambi (Switz.) 50×1 g, 100×1 g, etc. .9999 E.g. 50 g bar = 50 g net Au Breakable segments. LBMA accredited.
Perth Mint Bars Perth Mint (Australia) 1 oz, 5 oz, 10 oz, 1 kg .9999 Net Au = labeled weight × .9999 Govt mint. Kangaroo minted bars + cast bars.
Royal Canadian Mint (RCM) RCM (Canada) 1 oz, 5 oz, 10 oz, 1 kg .9999 Net Au = labeled weight Serialized, advanced security. Maple leaf stamp.
Johnson Matthey (vintage) JM (historic) 1 oz, 10 oz, 100 oz .9999 or .999 Net Au = labeled size × purity Discontinued brand. Highly regarded on secondary market.
Engelhard (vintage) Engelhard (USA) 1 oz, 10 oz, etc. .995 or .9999 Net Au = labeled weight × purity No longer produced. Collector premium for older bars.
Argor-Heraeus Argor-Heraeus (Switz.) 1 g–1 kg minted/cast .9999 Net Au = label (e.g. 1 oz, 100 g) LBMA Good Delivery. Sealed w/ official assay.
Rand Refinery Rand Refinery (S.A.) 1 oz minted, etc. .9999 or .995 Net Au matches label Known for Krugerrand blanks. Global brand recognition.
Istanbul Gold Refinery (IGR) IGR (Turkey) 1 g–1 oz minted, 100 g cast .9999 Net Au = labeled size × purity LBMA accredited. Tamper‑sealed assay packaging.
Metalor Metalor (Switz.) 1 oz minted, 100 g, 1 kg cast .9999 Net = labeled weight Major Swiss refiner, LBMA Good Delivery.
Asahi Refining Asahi (USA/Japan) 1 oz minted, 100 oz cast .9999 Net Au = labeled bar weight Former Johnson Matthey. LBMA recognized.
Good Delivery 400 oz Various LBMA refiners ~350–430 oz range ≥ .995 ~400 oz net Au (depending on final weight) Institutional standard bar (~12.4 kg).

Silver Bullion

Modern Silver Coins
Product Name Mint/Origin Weight Purity Net Silver Content Notes
American Silver Eagle U.S. Mint 1.000 troy oz total .999 1.000 troy oz Ag Debuted 1986. $1 face. Most recognized U.S. silver coin.
Canadian Silver Maple Leaf Royal Canadian Mint 1.000 troy oz total .9999 1.000 troy oz Ag Began 1988. $5 CAD face. 4‑nines silver.
British Silver Britannia The Royal Mint (UK) 1.000 troy oz total .958 pre‑2013
.999/.9999 after 2013
~1.000 troy oz Ag (post‑2013) Introduced 1997. £2 face. Upgraded purity in 2013.
Austrian Silver Philharmonic Austrian Mint 1.000 troy oz total .999 1.000 troy oz Ag Began 2008. €1.50 face. Features orchestral instruments.
South African Silver Krugerrand Rand Refinery (S.A.) 1.000 troy oz total .999 1.000 troy oz Ag Released 2017 for gold Krugerrand's 50th anniversary.
Chinese Silver Panda China Gold Coin Corp 1.000 troy oz total (pre‑2016)
30 g after 2016
.999 1.000 oz or ~0.9645 oz (30 g) 10 Yuan face. Annual panda design changes.
Australian Silver Kangaroo Perth Mint (Australia) 1.000 troy oz total .9999 1.000 troy oz Ag Began 2016. $1 AUD face. 4‑nines silver.
Australian Silver Kookaburra Perth Mint 1.000 troy oz total .999 or .9999 1.000 troy oz Ag Annual kookaburra designs since 1990. $1 AUD face.
Australian Silver Koala Perth Mint 1.000 troy oz total .999 or .9999 1.000 troy oz Ag Began 2007. Koala motif changes yearly.
Mexican Silver Libertad Casa de Moneda (Mexico) 1.000 troy oz total .999 1.000 troy oz Ag No face value, but legal tender by weight. Iconic Winged Victory design.
Somali Silver Elephant Bavarian State Mint (for Somalia) 1.000 troy oz total .9999 1.000 troy oz Ag African Wildlife Series. 100 Shillings face.
Armenian Silver Noah’s Ark Geiger Mint (for Armenia) 1.000 troy oz total .999 1.000 troy oz Ag 500 Dram face. Began 2011. Depicts Mt. Ararat & Ark.
Ukrainian Silver Archangel Michael National Bank of Ukraine 1.000 troy oz total .999 (or .9999) ~1.000 troy oz Ag 1 Hryvnia face. Began 2011. Features Archangel Michael.
Junk Silver & Classic U.S. Silver Dollars
Product Name Weight Purity Net Silver Content Notes
U.S. 90% Silver (pre‑1965) $1 face ~0.715 troy oz total .900 $1 face ~0.6435 oz Ag Dimes, quarters, halves minted 1964 & earlier.
U.S. 40% Silver Halves (1965–1970) $1 face ~0.295 troy oz total .400 $1 face ~0.118 oz Ag Only Kennedy halves 1965–70.
U.S. War Nickels (1942–45) Each ~5.00 g (~0.161 troy oz) .350 ~0.056 oz Ag each Mintmark over Monticello dome. 35% silver.
Morgan Dollar (1878–1921) ~26.73 g total (~0.859 troy oz) .900 ~0.7734 troy oz Ag Iconic design by George T. Morgan.
Peace Dollar (1921–1935) ~26.73 g total (~0.859 troy oz) .900 ~0.7734 troy oz Ag Followed Morgan. Same net silver ~0.7734 oz.
1982 George Washington Silver Half ~11.34 g (~0.365 troy oz) .900 ~0.3285 troy oz Ag Modern commemorative half‑dollar.
Silver Bullion Bars & Rounds
Product Name Refiner/Mint Weight Purity Net Silver Content Notes
Generic 1 oz Silver Rounds Various Private Mints (USA) 1 oz, 2 oz, etc. .999 typically Same as labeled weight × purity Low premium. Often Buffalo or “Walking Liberty” motifs.
PAMP Suisse Bars PAMP (Switzerland) 1 oz, 5 oz, 10 oz, 1 kg .999 or .9999 Net Ag = bar weight × purity “Fortuna” design. LBMA recognized.
RCM Silver Bars Royal Canadian Mint 10 oz, 100 oz, 1 kg .9999 Net = label × .9999 Serialized, advanced security.
Engelhard Silver Bars (vintage) Engelhard (historic, USA) 1, 5, 10, 100 oz .999 Net Ag ~ labeled size Discontinued brand. Sought after by collectors.
Heraeus / Argor‑Heraeus Bars Germany / Switzerland 1 oz to 1 kg .999 Net Ag = label × .999 LBMA recognized. Often come with assay cert.
Sunshine Mint Bars Sunshine (USA) 1, 5, 10, 100 oz .999 Net = labeled size MintMark SI security feature. Popular brand.
Valcambi Silver Bars Valcambi (Switz.) 1 oz, 100 g, 1 kg, CombiBars .999 Net Ag = label × .999 Swiss refined. Also offers breakable “CombiBars.”
Asahi Silver Bars Asahi (USA/Japan) 1 oz, 10 oz, 100 oz .999 Net = labeled size LBMA recognized. Former JM/Engelhard facilities.
Metalor Silver Bars Metalor (Switz.) 1 kg cast, 10 oz minted .999 Net = label × .999 Stamped w/ serial. Major Swiss refiner.
Istanbul Gold Refinery (IGR) IGR (Turkey) 1 oz, 1 kg, 100 oz .999 Net Ag = label × .999 LBMA accredited. Often sealed w/ assay.
Geiger Security Bars Geiger Edelmetalle (Germany) 10 oz, 500 g, etc. .999 Net = labeled bar × .999 UV markings, unique serial. High security design.
Scottsdale “Stackers” Scottsdale Mint (USA) 2 oz, 5 oz, 10 oz .999 Net = label Interlocking edges. Premium brand for stacking.
1000 oz COMEX Bar Various LBMA refiners ~1000 troy oz (±10%) ~.999 ~1000 oz net Ag Large “good delivery” for institutional/COMEX trades.

Platinum Bullion

Government-Minted Platinum Coins

Platinum bullion coins are typically struck to a 99.95% purity standard and are legal tender with symbolic face values. Notable examples include:

  • American Platinum Eagle (USA): Introduced in 1997 by the U.S. Mint, contains 1 troy oz of .9995 fine platinum. Available in multiple fractional sizes with a $100 face value.
  • Canadian Platinum Maple Leaf (Canada): First issued in 1988 by the Royal Canadian Mint. Initially available in multiple denominations, now primarily a 1 oz coin in .9999 fine platinum.
  • British Platinum Britannia (UK): Issued by The Royal Mint since 2017 with 1 oz of .9995 fine platinum and a £100 face value.
  • Australian Platinum Koala (Australia): Launched in 1988 by the Perth Mint. Issued in fractional sizes and known for its collectible appeal.
Private Refinery Platinum Bars

Private refiners produce platinum bars in sizes ranging from 1 gram to 1 kilogram, typically at 99.95% purity. Leading products include:

  • PAMP Suisse Bars: Known for the “Lady Fortuna” design and LBMA recognition.
  • Credit Suisse/Valcambi Bars: Available in 1 oz and larger sizes, each with unique serial numbers and assay certificates.
  • Other Refiners: Valcambi, Johnson Matthey, and others produce bars that meet industry standards.
Historic/Traditional Platinum Bullion Products

Platinum’s bullion history includes early Russian platinum ruble coins and later modern issues that set the standard for purity. Highlights include:

  • Russian Platinum Rubles: Minted from 1828 to 1845, these coins are now rare historical items.
  • Isle of Man Platinum Noble: The first modern platinum bullion coin issued between 1983 and 1989.
  • Other Issues: Occasional collectible issues from Austria and other mints.

Palladium Bullion

Government-Minted Palladium Coins

Palladium coins are less common but follow a similar high-purity standard (99.95%). Key examples include:

  • American Palladium Eagle (USA): First issued in 2017, containing 1 troy oz of .9995 fine palladium with a $25 face value.
  • Russian Palladium Ballerina: A historic series from 1989–1995, featuring annual ballerina designs and limited mintage.
  • Canadian Palladium Maple Leaf (Canada): Issued intermittently since 2005, with a 1 troy oz coin in 99.95% palladium.
Private Refinery Palladium Bars

Palladium bars, typically produced at 99.95% purity, are offered in 1 oz and larger sizes by refiners such as PAMP Suisse and Valcambi.

  • PAMP Suisse Palladium Bars: Available in weights from 1 gram to 10 oz, with assay certification.
  • Credit Suisse/Valcambi Bars: Similar to their platinum offerings, these bars are 99.95% pure with serial numbers and assay cards.
  • Other Sizes: Larger 10 oz and 1 kg bars are produced for institutional buyers.
Historic/Traditional Palladium Bullion Products

Palladium’s bullion history includes early commemorative issues and limited-run coins. Highlights include:

  • Early Palladium Issues (1960s): Including the first palladium coins from Sierra Leone and Tonga.
  • Soviet/Russian Commemoratives: Such as the 1988 coin celebrating 1000 years of Baptism of Kievan Rus.
  • Limited Commemorative Issues: Occasional palladium coins from China, Australia, and Slovakia.