Bullion guides

We believe in sharing knowledge openly. These guides explain physical bullion in plain English. They are general information, not advice.

Bullion basics

Bullion purity explained: what .9999 and 999.9 mean
Purity, also called fineness, describes how much of a bullion product is the precious metal itself. It is usually stamped on the product and listed in its specifications.
Troy ounces and bullion weights
Precious metals are priced and traded by the troy ounce, a unit slightly heavier than the ounce used for everyday goods.
Spot price and premiums: how bullion is priced
The price you pay for a bar or coin starts with the metal’s spot price, the international market price, and adds a premium for the finished product.

Gold bars vs gold coins: what’s the difference?
Bars and coins are the two main forms of physical gold bullion. Both are valued primarily for their gold content, but they differ in how they are made, priced and handled.

Buying silver bullion: a practical guide
Silver is often where people begin holding physical precious metals. It behaves differently from gold in a few practical ways worth understanding before you buy.