Guide
How to Buy Gold
A practical six-step guide to buying physical gold for the first time — what to buy, where to buy it, and how to avoid the most common mistakes.
1. Decide why you're buying
Long-term store of value, inflation hedge, gift, or portfolio diversification — your goal determines what to buy. Investors usually pick low-premium bullion; gift buyers may prefer coins.
2. Choose bars or coins
Bars carry the lowest premium per gram and are best for larger amounts. Government-minted coins (American Eagle, Krugerrand, Maple Leaf, Britannia) are more liquid and easier to resell in small quantities.
3. Pick a reputable dealer
Buy only from established bullion dealers, LBMA-approved refiners, or major banks. Verify reviews, check refund policies, and never wire money to a private seller you don't know.
4. Compare the premium
The premium is the markup over the live spot price. Typical premiums: 2–5% on 1oz bars, 4–8% on 1oz coins, 10%+ on small fractional coins. Use our live spot price as your baseline.
5. Plan for storage
Options include a home safe, a bank safe deposit box, or an allocated vault service. Insure anything stored at home and never tell strangers what you own.
6. Understand taxes
Capital gains tax may apply when you sell. Some countries (UK, Singapore, Switzerland) exempt investment-grade gold from VAT. Check local rules before buying large amounts.
Next step
Check today's live spot price before contacting any dealer — that's the number every premium is calculated from.