Hi,
When you buy bars of gold, especially low-denominations like 1 gram, 2.5 gram, 5 gram, or even 1 oz, you’ll find them encased in a credit card-sized plastic holder with a label or certificate. This is in the guise of an assay card—that is more than just packaging. For the newbie and the veteran investor, being able to recognize the use of an assay card is key in the protection of your investment.
Many of our bars—especially those in the larger mints like PAMP Suisse, Valcambi, and Credit Suisse—are encapsulated in the original assay card. Let us describe what they are and why they are significant.
What is an Assay Card?
Assay card is a tamper-evident packaging that carries a certified statement from the mint verifying the content, weight, and purity of the bar of gold contained. It will generally have:
- Bar weight (e.g., 1 gram, 5 grams, 1 oz)
- Level of purity (e.g., 999.9 fine
- Serial number
- Signature of a qualified assayer
- Mint branding
A few of the latest assay cards also contain security features such as holograms, QR codes, or security.
Why are assay cards so important?
- Authentication
The mint actually makes the assay cards, and they are a form of certificate of authenticity. So you—and later collectors—will know that the bar is genuine.
- Resale Value
Sealed assay card bars are generally more expensive to resell. Buyers are confident in their purchase of gold in a sealed assay card, believing that the card hasn’t been opened or mishandled.
- Tamper Protection
Most of the assay cards are also tamper-evident. You will know if the card is opened or breached because you will see—a further protective barrier against contamination or even fraud.
- Trackability
The printed assay card’s serial numbers facilitate traceability. In case of resale or audits, linking the physical bar of gold to official records is made easy.
What if a Gold Bar Doesn’t Include an Assay Card?
Not every bar comes with assay cards—namely larger bars (such as 10 oz or 1 kg), for example, that instead are accompanied by a different certificate or are stamped directly onto the bar. Also, circulated or used bars will not come in a seal.
That is not to say they are not authentic—it is only that you should buy through a qualified dealer like AU Bullion, who verifies all bullion products before they are offered for sale.
Buy Gold Bars with Assay Cards on AU Bullion
Our products at AU Bullion consist of a variety of high-caliber gold bars, including:
- PAMP Suisse
- Valcambi Suisse
- Credit Suisse
- Asahi Refining
- Argor Heraeus
Most of our small denomination bars (1 gram, 2.5 gram, 5 gram, 10 gram, 1 oz) are encapsulated in original assay cards—offering the ultimate level of security and legitimacy for your investment. Whether you are investing for the preservation of wealth, gift giving, or diversifying a portfolio, choosing gold bars with assay cards adds long-term value and peace of mind.
Ready to Invest?
Visit the AU Bullion website or visit one of our locations in Vancouver or Toronto to view our entire selection of available bars in gold with assay cards. We are always available to guide you in making the most informed choices and receiving the finest market rates for physical precious metals.
