We at AU Bullion welcome new investors into the world of precious metals with open arms. You may be interested in gold, silver, or platinum, and the first purchase can be a daunting step, and of course, you do have questions.

We get calls from new bullion buyers daily, and the questions that come in are surprisingly universal. So if you’re a first-time buyer, you’ve found the right place. Below, we’ve summarized the most asked questions that we receive at AU Bullion—along with the answers that can assist you in making informed, confident choices.

1. Is Bullion the same as Jewelry?

Nope! Although jewelry can be gold- or silver-filled, bullion is investment-grade precious metal, often in the form of rounds, coins, or bars. Bullion is principally worth what the precious metal in it is worth, rather than the craftsmanship or the look of the piece.

At AU Bullion, we sell certified gold, silver, and platinum bullion with known weights and purities—ideal for investing.

2. What is the Difference Between Coins and Bars?

Coins: Legal tender, usually produced by official government mints such as the Royal Canadian Mint or the U.S. Mint. These can command a small premium because of recognizability and collectibility.

Bars: Produced by private or government refiners (such as PAMP Suisse or Asahi Refining). Usually, tend to be lower in premiums and are perfect to stack in bulk.

They’re both fine options. Coins are liquid and widely recognized, and the bars tend to be better value per ounce.

3. How Much Should I Invest to Start?

That’s entirely up to you! Many of our customers begin with as little as $100, purchasing 1 Gram Gold Bars or 1 oz Silver Coins. It’s not about how much you start with—it’s about getting started and building over time.

We always advise to only put in what you’re comfortable with and gradually contributing to your portfolio.

4. How Do I Know I’m Getting Real Precious Metals?

It is a huge one—and a very important one.

We only handle genuine, certified bullion from reliable refineries and mints. We are a Royal Canadian Mint Authorized Bullion DNA Dealer, and as such, can guarantee the authenticity of RCM coins using advanced digital verification.

We also supply the assay cards, the serial numbers, and mint packaging as applicable.

5. What’s the Best Way to Store My Bullion?

You do have a few choices:

• At home in a safe or lockbox
• In the safe deposit box at your bank
• In third-party secured vaults, if you’re putting together a big collection
• Whatever you do, see that your bullion is secure, dry, and insured.

6. Must I Pay Tax in Canada for Bullion?

Great news! Most precious metals are tax-exempt in Canada if they meet purity standards:

• Gold should be at least 99.5% pure.
• Silver has to be at least 99.9% pure.
• Platinum should be 99% pure or greater.

All of AU Bullion’s investment-grade products satisfy these levels and qualify as GST/HST exempt.

7. What is the Procedure to Sell My Bullion in the Future?

Selling to us is as easy as buying. When you’re ready to exchange your bullion:

• Stop by our Brampton or Vancouver office or apply online.
• Bring proper photo identification and your bullion for inspection.
• We will evaluate and give a competitive buyback price.
• We provide same-day payment services so that you can sell confidently.

Final Thoughts 

Investing in bullion is one of the best ways to secure your wealth, and now it’s easier to do than ever before. At AU Bullion Canada, they’re here to help you every step of the way, no matter whether you’re purchasing your first gram or your hundredth ounce. Still unsure? Contact us now or stop by the Vancouver office to meet with a bullion expert. Your precious metals journey begins with us.