PyeongChang 2018 is the highly prestigious winter Olympic sporting event due to take place in Pyeongchang County, South Korea between 9 to 25 February 2018. It is the 23rd Winter Olympics and South Korea’s first. PyeongChang is only the third Asian city to host the winter games. The first two were held in Japan in 1972 and 1998.
To commemorate the event, South Korea has issued a set of coins made in gold, silver and bronze. The coins were issued in 2016 and have evoked quite a bit of international interest from collectors and investors across the world.
The 30,000 Won gold coin is among the first series of coins issued to commemorate the event. The coin features the Olympic logo, as well as the PyeongChang winter games logo on the obverse. The face value of the coin is shown on the reverse along with a motif showing Gorosoi skis and people using it.
The Gorosoi ski is a popular means of transportation in the snowy mountainous region of the Gangwon province. It is considered to be the traditional skis of the region. They are meant to be used along with snowshoes with a hardwood frame called Seolpi. A stick is used by the user to move in the right direction along with a spear at the other end, used for hunting.
The coin contains 31.10 g of pure gold that is 99.9% pure, along with a diameter of 35 mm. While the face value of the coin shows 30,000 won, the coin is priced internationally at £2042 (2,96,000 KRW).
PyeongChang is the first Asian city outside of Japan to host the winter games
Other editions
Apart from the 30,000 Won issue of the Winter Games gold coin, there are other similar coins that have been issued to commemorate the event. The 20,000 Won gold coin is smaller and weighs 15.55 g. It has a size of 28mm in width and is made of 99.9% solid gold. It is available as part of an 11 coin set issued to commemorate the games, featuring both the 30,000 Won and the 20,000 Won gold coins along with a 5,000 Won silver and a 1,000 Won brass coin.
A set of 10 coins has also been issued that does not contain the large 30,000 Won gold coin. This set features only the 20,000 Won version and all silver and brass coins from the first series. The set of 10 is well presented in an oval-shaped case, which has been designed to replicate the ice rink, where all the skating events will take place at the games. The set is priced at £1406 (2,038,000 KRW). These sets, as well as the individual coins, are of great interest to numismatists across the world. Some collectors have painstakingly put together a thematic collection of gold and silver coins commemorating previous Olympics and Winter Olympics. Needless to say, these coins would be of immense interest to them as a new addition.
Call Physical Gold for help with your collection
Our experts at Physical Gold have the expertise and experience to advise you on how to build a valuable collection over the years. We are always happy to discuss your goals in building a prized collection of gold and silver coins that can be your legacy and an heirloom you can pass on to future generations. We may even be able to procure certain coins that you need but are unable to get. We are also able to advise you on valuations when you need to sell. Call us now on 020 7060 9992 and speak to one of our experts.
Country: USA
Face Value: $50 USD
Gold Content: 1 ounce (31.104g)
Purity: 99.99% (24 karat)
Gross Weight: 31.108g
Coin Diameter: 32.70mm
First year of issue: 2006
The American Buffalo Coin is the first .9999 fine 24-karat gold coin ever struck by the United States Mint and has been produced every year since its first issue in 2006.
These are among the world’s purest gold coins in terms of the fineness of the metal they contain. The American Buffalo Coin is one of only a handful of 24 karat bullion gold coins and is one of the reasons for its worldwide appeal. By law, the gold in Buffalo Gold Bullion Coins must originate from newly mined sources in America. All the coins are struck at the United States Mint at West Point, New York, but do not have a mint mark.
The Buffalo coin is a modified version of James Earle Fraser’s design for the Indian Head nickel issued in early 1913, regarded as among the best and most collectable designs of any U.S. coins.
The American Buffalo Gold Coin was opened to coin dealers on 20th June, 2006. Collectors placed their orders by July 22, 2006, in order to acquire the proof versions directly from the mint. Only 300,000 of these were minted, making them rare today. At the time, US coins were using 91.67% gold in their bullion coins like the American Gold Eagle. Due to this, investors opted for non-US coins, like the Canadian Gold Maple Leaf. In order to woo investors away from non-US coins, the American Buffalo coins were minted with 99.99% 24 karat gold. The US mint clearly wanted to sell into the 24 karat gold market, which accounts for about 60% of the world’s gold market.
The coin was an instant hit among the public, collectors and buyers. The value of the coin escalated at an unprecedented pace, and in just a few years the price shot up from $800 in 2006, which was the initial price to $2010 in 2011. It is interesting to note that all bullion coins made in the US are struck at New York’s West Point Mint. The proof versions of the buffalo gold coins are stamped with a ‘W’ mark on the front of the coin, while the bullion version does not have this mark. One ounce versions were released by the US Mint in 2006 and 2007. However, by 2008 the mint decided to issue 1/10 oz., ¼ oz. and ½ oz. gold buffalo coins with face values of $5, $10 and $25 respectively.
2008 financial crisis
During the 2008 financial crisis, investors started investing heavily in gold. The US sub-prime mortgage crisis had reached its peak and become a global financial crisis that spread across continents. Investors all over the world were turning to gold and silver to hedge their risks. Unable to keep up with the escalating demand at the time, the US Mint announced on September 26, 2008, that it would temporarily halt the issue of American Buffalo Gold coins.
The obverse of this coin is a profile of a classic Native American Indian which is said to be created as a mixture of the features of three chiefs from different Indian American tribes.
The reverse features an American Bison, which commonly are referred to as buffalo. The motto, “In God We Trust”, appears to the left of, and beneath, the buffalo’s head. This motto has featured on all U.S. gold coins since 1908.
The coin has a face value of $50 USD and is afine addition to a coin portfolio.
The Bloomsbury Coin Fair
The Bloomsbury Coin Fair is a hugely popular event that is held 8 times a year in central London. With a highly affordable entry charge of only £2.00, it is a great place to visit and connect with the world of numismatists. It is a veritable treasure trove for those with a passion for collecting. They can not only see great coins first hand at the fair, but also connect with experienced collectors. There is plenty of advice available about coin investments and of course, the opportunity to browse catalogues and participate in auctions during the day. The Bloomsbury fair usually has around 40 dealers present and the owners of the event are John Philpotts and Sophie Dickenson, who are also responsible for running the show.
The fair is held regularly at the Bloomsbury Hotel, situated at 16-22, Great Russell Street in central London. Tottenham Court Road is the nearest tube station for visitors arriving via public transport. The hotel is a short walk away from the station. For those driving in, parking is available in a multi-storey car park down Great Russell Street or in the Bloomsbury Square car park.
Numismatic fairs are a great place to mingle and network with like-minded collectors
Timings of entry are 9:30 AM to 2 PM. Exhibitors can also book tables to display their wares and do need to inform the organisers well in advance in order to ensure that a table will be available. Table prices range from £130 for a table 6 ft. long up to £250 for a 12-foot table. The fair covers many interesting periods in coin history. Visitors can find Tudor coins, Norman and Anglo Saxon coins and even coins that date back to Roman times and the Iron Age. A list of regular exhibitors can be found here.
Call us for helpful advice when you build your collection
There are many exhibitions across the world where collectors congregate to find out more about coins and gain knowledge about numismatics and investing. Of course, the Bloomsbury Coin Fair is one of the popular ones in the UK to attend.
However, expert knowledge is always helpful before you dash off with your hard earned money to a coin fair to make investments. You need to have deep knowledge about the subject before you put your money on it and this does not come easy.
The good news is that our experts at Physical Gold are always at your service to give you valuable advice, help you build your collection and even procure specific coins that you may want for your collection. Call us on 020 7060 9992 to talk to one of our experts who can help you learn more about numismatics and make the right investment decisions.
British Sovereigns have existed since ancient times, but the modern-day Sovereign has been minted since Great Recoinage of 1816. Sovereigns have been produced for each Monarch since this time with King Edward VII being no exception. In this article, we provide various facts and insights about King Edward VII sovereigns.
Date of King Edward VII Sovereigns
King Edward VII was king of the UK and British Dominions from 22nd January 1901 through until 6th May 1910. Therefore, King Edward VII Sovereigns were minted at this time with coins being available with dates from 1902 (when King Edward was crowned) until his death in 1910.
The King Edward VII Sovereign
Sovereign design
This sovereign features the following design on the obverse/reverse:
Obverse – The obverse features a portrait of Edward VII
Reverse – The reverse displays a St. George and Dragon design
Where were they minted?
There are five possible mint locations for King Edward VII sovereigns, these are listed below with the quantities minted (around 200 million in total):
London – 105 million
Australia:
Melbourne – 31 million
Perth – 42 million
Sydney – 22 million
Ottawa, Canada – Only 45,000
Example of the obverse side of a 1909 King Edward VII Sovereign
Production quantities by year
The following were the production quantities of gold sovereigns for each year:
Until the first world war sovereigns were used as £1 coins. The majority of the population could not afford to keep them as collectibles, so many sovereigns became worn through active use. Therefore, to this day the quality of sovereigns is extremely variable with matte proof and extra fine examples commanding a significant price premium.
Investment approach
The gold amount within a King Edward VII sovereign weighs about 0.2354 troy oz. (i.e. just less than quarter of an oz. When calculating as an investment it’s easy to see that a premium is paid for these Sovereigns over the market price for gold. This is the balance between the current gold price and its numismatic value. When buying coins like this it’s important to remember for your investment you are not only becoming a gold owner, but also will benefit from the future collectors’ demand for these Sovereigns. If in doubt just give us a call and we can advise on the best investment approach for your circumstances.
Buying King Edward VII Sovereigns through Physical Gold
If you are looking to buy this famous and highly collectible Sovereign, then why not contact us here at Physical Gold on 020 7060 9992? We, of course, stock this Sovereign, but what we hold does fluctuate, so contact us for our latest holdings and price. If you need a specific year or level of quality, please let us know.
The 3rd July 1967 was an important date in the world of gold coins as it saw the release of the Krugerrand by the South African Mint. The Krugerrand was an important vehicle for South Africa to release its gold reserves worldwide. At the time South Africa was mining c75% of the world’s annual gold supply and this coin was a convenient and collectible way for the gold to be used and was more affordable to the man on the street than gold bars.
The Krugerrand has a name origin, split into two parts, which are:
Kruger – Named after Paul Kruger, the president of the South African Republic from 1883 to 1900. His portrait features on one side of the coin
Rand – The rand is a currency used in South Africa and is named after the “White waters’ ridge” (Witwatersrand in Afrikaans). This area is prolific for gold mining and is the origin of in excess of 50% of the gold ever mined on earth
Investing in gold Krugerrands is a solid investment idea
10 amazing facts and stats about the Krugerrand
The Krugerrand was the world’s first 1oz. weight gold coin, where weight was used as the denomination
They have no face value, instead, the coin’s value is actively known across the world and is based on its precious metal content
The Krugerrand is easily the most recognisable gold coin worldwide
In 1980, ½ oz. ¼ oz. and 1/10 oz. versions of the Krugerrand were released to help investors with more restricted budgets
The Krugerrand has been mass produced, with more than fifty million being minted to date
The reverse side of a Krugerrand features a springbok, a type of South African antelope and symbol of the country
The coin is gold alloy featuring 91.67% 22-Karat gold and 8.33% copper (this is quite like the constitution of a British Sovereign)
Proof versions of the coin have been produced with collectors in mind as opposed to a primary motive of investment. Proof coins have 220 serrations on the edge of the coin whereas the standard bullion coins have just 160
A special 50oz. version of the coin was minted for the fiftieth anniversary, these are highly collectible as only fifty were ever minted
It’s the 50th anniversary of the South African Krugerrand in 2017
Here’s to another fifty years
Whilst other countries have released their own national coins (e.g. the Canadian Maple Leaf (1979), the American Golden Eagle (1986) and the Britannia (1987), etc.) demand worldwide for the Krugerrand is still extremely strong. This coin has well and truly stood the test of time and has not disappointed happy investors. Here’s looking forward to another fifty years of the Krugerrand.
Further reading
For further information about the South African Krugerrand also read our recent insight article by clicking South African Krugerrand.
Buying Krugerrands from Physical Gold
It’s the 50th (or Golden anniversary) of the Krugerrand, so why not buy some now from us here at Physical Gold? Call us today on 020 7060 9992 to place your order or discuss your requirements or email us via our contact form here.
An incredible collection of valuable gold sovereign coins has been discovered hidden in an old piano.
The piano, originally sold in Essex in 1906, was sent for retuning and repairing by the current owners, when the life-changing hoard of coins was discovered hidden inside it.
Found just before Christmas, experts believe the coin collection was probably carefully hidden there as far back as 1915, and the value is said to be life-changing. It includes an undisclosed number of full and half sovereigns, dated 1847 to 1915.
Peter Reavill, the Finds Liaison Officer at Shropshire Museums said it had “The potential of yielding a life-changing sum of money. It’s not the sort of money you would tuck away and forget,” he said. “It is a lifetime of savings and it’s beyond most people.”
Due to conclude later this month, the inquest has heard how the piano, made by Broadwood & Sons of London, was initially sold to a Messrs Beavan and Mothersole of Saffron Walden, Essex, in 1906.
Ownership of the piano between 1906-1983 is a mystery, with the coroner seeking information about its location during that period.
Declared as treasure
It will be decided on April 20th whether the ‘pot of gold’ can be declared as treasure. The conclusion has been delayed to allow more time for anyone from the Essex area, with information about ownership of the piano, to come forward.
If the coroner believes they have been hidden with the intent of future recovery, the objects will qualify as treasure and be the property of the Crown. However, the Crown’s claim will be void, if the original owner or their heirs can establish their title to the find.
Daniel Fisher of www.physicalgold.com, said, Its not the first time I’ve heard of obscure places to store gold. Full sovereigns are worth anything between 250 – 300 each, so a significant find like this means someone out there is due to receive quite a substantial pot of gold.
The Rooster
The Chinese economy has been well publicised recently, with increased volatility due to Trump’s trade war with China. All thoughts of the economy may be temporarily adjourned though, on the 28th January, as the Chinese New Year celebrations begin.
Families traditionally gather the evening before, to eat dinner together and exchange gifts. Windows and doors are decorated with red paper-cuttings – with themes such as ‘good fortune,’ ‘happiness’, ‘wealth’, or ‘long life’.
And this year is the Year of the Fire Rooster – representing triumph and success, which can only be achieved through hard work and patience (something Donald Trump’s administration may wish to bear in mind when negotiating trade deals with the world’s second largest economy).
Gold Lunar Rooster coins capture lucky spirit
Gold is highly regarded as a symbol of wealth and prosperity within China and this year, we have the Gold Lunar Rooster coin for those wanting to make a special statement with a unique gift.
China’s love of gold
The Chinese relationship with gold, however, goes far beyond gifts and decoration. China is the biggest global producer of gold and, in 2016, introduced its own gold fixing at the Shanghai Gold Exchange for the first time – establishing it as one of the leading global trading platforms.
As the world’s biggest producer, they are also, naturally, one of the largest gold holders, after the US and ahead of Russia, and are one of the biggest importers of gold bars, coins and refined gold.
However, with Donald Trump’s inauguration and European elections on the horizon, the future looks more uncertain than ever, which inevitably means volatility for the markets.
Gold can offer a safe haven in such situations. So why not make 2017 the year to add protection and diversification to your portfolio, by investing in gold and silver? A New Year is always the perfect time to consider a thorough financial review of your assets.
Mark Chinese Year of the Rooster in a really special way with our unique Gold Lunar Rooster Coin
The Australian Nugget gold coin was introduced in 1986 with a face value of $100 AUD and is legal tender in Australia. The coins are minted in 24 karatgold and are seen as a great way to own gold in its purest form.
Australian Nugget
Country: Australia
Face Value: $100 AUD
Gold Content: 31.104g
Purity: 99.99% (24 karat)
Gross Weight: 31.162g
Coin Diameter: 32.10mm
First year of issue: 1986
The Nugget is one of only a few bullion coins to change their design every year. For this reason, combined with its low quantity minted, the Austrailian Nugget (or Kangaroo) is one of the world’s most desirable bullion coins for investors and collectors.
During the first three years of the Nuggets’ issue the reverse of the coin featured a picture of a different famous gold nugget. From 1989, the design was changed to display different Kangaroos, a more world-recognised symbol of Australia. The obverse features a profile portrait of Queen Elizabeth II.
As a member of the British Commonwealth and a part of the British Empire, Australia has had a long history of gold coins. The first sovereigns were introduced in the country in 1855. These were first produced at the Sydney Mint and introduced as legal tender in each Australian colony. These sovereigns resembled the British sovereigns, with one exception. A tiny mintmark was included to show which Australian mint it originated from. At the time, Australia was part of the Empire and the coins had to have approval from the Royal Mint in London. In fact, all the Australian mints were considered to be branches of the Royal Mint. It was through this rigorous testing process that the Australian mints became early pioneers of global standards in the purification of gold.
Australia now holds the world record for having produced the largest and most valuable gold coin in history. The one-tonne gold coin was created in 2011 and has a face value of one million Australian dollars. The gigantic coin is around 80 centimetres in diameter and 12 centimetres in depth. Valued at over 53 million Australian dollars at the time, the front of the priceless coin has a red kangaroo, with a portrait of the Queen on the back.
Australia is one of the world’s highest gold producing countries and the Nugget is their premier coin. Produced by The Perth Mint, it shouldn’t be confused with the Australian Lunar gold coins which depict the various animals of the Chinese calendar instead.
The 31.1 g nugget represents a wonderful opportunity for enthusiasts, collectors and investors alike to have this historic coin. The coin is 24 carat with a purity of 99.9% and is a great investment. As the price of gold climbs steadily, investors have a positive outlook for the metal in 2018. Therefore, it is a good time to invest in gold, either as a preferred investment or simply a diversification strategy. The slow European economy, coupled with the uncertainty of Brexit, makes it prudent to move into more defensive asset classes that will not devalue easily and promise a steady return. That’s exactly what gold does and it looks as though it will continue doing just that.
The nugget is an excellent coin to invest in and it will protect your investment while enabling your family and you to admire one of the finest creations in gold from down under. Please call our gold investment advisors on 020 7060 9992 or simply drop them an email on info@www.physicalgold.com They can help you purchase the nugget, as well as introduce you to a variety of great gold coins that are in no way lesser than the nugget when it comes to making robust investment for your family and you.
The Angel coin is a lesser-known UK bullion gold coin issued by the British Pobjoy Mint in the Isle of Man. Well regarded for its beautiful depiction of the Archangel Michael slaying the dragon on its reverse, this coin appeals to collectors and investors alike.
Based on the French Angelot coin, it was originally minted in England under Edward IV in 1465. Rumour has it that the coin was thought to bring healing powers to those suffering from the disease scrofula or the ‘King’s evil’.
Nowadays, it’s seen as a viable 24 carat alternative to the Royal Mint’s 1oz Britannia coin, offering the same tax-free status due to its recognition as legal tender. Despite this, they remain less popular and less liquid than their Royal Mint counterparts. Certainly welcome as part of a mixed tax-free portfolio.
The Angel coin
Country: UK
Face Value: n/a
Gold Content: 1 ounce (31.103g)
Purity: 999.9
Gross Weight: 31.2013g
Coin Diameter: 32.70mm
First year of issue: 2006
You’ve probably heard that Tax-Free Gold offers balance and portfolio protection,
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Video Transcript:
You’ve probably heard that gold offers balance & portfolio protection, but did you know about its other benefits?
Here at Physical Gold.com, all our gold coins are V-A-T exempt AND Capital Gains Tax free, so you won’t have to share any profit with the taxman.
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We specialise in making it incredibly easy to invest in real, solid, tax-efficient gold coins. And our purchasing power means we can offer you tax-free Royal Mint coins at market leading rates…
If you want brand new coins, look no further than our ‘Bullion Coins’ category. These uncirculated coins provide the lowest-cost option for those seeking the most tax free gold for their money.
Our ‘Enhanced Performance’ coins are pre-owned, Royal Mint coins, offered at discounted prices. These have an intrinsic value – reflecting their increased scarcity and desirability. This option maximises your opportunity for increased returns when the markets rise, and offers protection if the gold price should fall.
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Gold Information
Live Gold Spot Price in Sterling.
Gold is one of the densest of all metals. It is a good conductor of heat and electricity. It is also soft and the most malleable and ductile of the elements; an ounce (31.1 grams; gold is weighed in troy ounces) can be beaten out to 187 square feet (about 17 square metres) in extremely thin sheets called gold leaf.
Silver Information
Live Silver Spot Price in Sterling.
Silver (Ag), chemical element, a white lustrous metal valued for its decorative beauty and electrical conductivity. Silver is located in Group 11 (Ib) and Period 5 of the periodic table, between copper (Period 4) and gold (Period 6), and its physical and chemical properties are intermediate between those two metals.
The Australian Nugget gold coin was introduced in 1986 with a face value of $100 AUD and is legal tender in Australia. The coins are minted in 24 karat gold and are seen as a great way to own gold in its purest form.