Gold bullion is sold in two broad formats: government-minted coins and privately refined bars. Both are priced off the same spot market, but what you actually pay — and what you can expect to receive when you sell — depends on the premium over spot, the recognizability of the product, and whether the piece meets IRS purity rules for a self-directed retirement account.

Coins vs. bars

Sovereign coins such as the American Gold Eagle, Canadian Maple Leaf, Krugerrand, and Austrian Philharmonic carry a legal-tender face value, a guaranteed weight and purity, and the deepest resale market in the United States. That liquidity comes at a cost: coin premiums typically run higher than bar premiums of the same weight. Bars from LBMA good-delivery refiners — PAMP Suisse, Valcambi, Argor-Heraeus, Perth Mint — cost less per ounce and are the more efficient way to accumulate size, particularly at 10 oz and 1 kilo. Many buyers hold a blend: coins in fractional sizes for flexibility when selling, bars for the bulk of the position.

Purity and IRA eligibility

For a precious metals IRA, gold must be at least .995 fine, with a specific statutory exception for the American Gold Eagle at .9167 (22 karat). Bars must come from a COMEX/NYMEX-approved or nationally accredited refiner and be produced to exact weight specifications. Collectible and graded coins are generally not permitted in a retirement account, and proof coins are allowed only in original mint packaging with a certificate of authenticity. If the account is the destination, confirm eligibility before buying rather than after.

Premiums, weight, and total cost

The smaller the piece, the higher the manufacturing cost per ounce. A 1/10 oz coin can carry a premium several times that of a 1 oz coin, and fractional gold makes sense mainly for buyers who want to sell in small increments. Compare dealers on the all-in delivered cost — premium, shipping, insurance, and any payment-method surcharge — rather than on advertised spot. Bank wire and check usually price better than credit card.

Storage and selling

IRA metals must be held by an approved depository; personally owned gold can be stored at home, in a safe deposit box, or in allocated depository storage with segregated or commingled options. Keep original packaging, assay cards, and purchase invoices — intact packaging and documented provenance shorten the resale conversation and protect your buyback price. Widely recognized products from major mints and refiners sell fastest.

Comparing where to buy? See our ranked dealer reviews and the Gold IRA guide.

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