When you’re buying physical silver and gold, numerous customers will instinctively reach for brand new, mint-sealed items. But there is another option that intelligent investors will also look at: circulated bullion. These are coins or bars composed of pure silver and gold that have been passed from owner to owner, may have small scratches or marks, and are no longer in their mint seal.
AU Bullion makes available both new and circulated bullion products—included circulated Silver and Gold Maple Leafs, 1 oz bars, 100 oz bars, and others—which provide our customers with varying choices based on their budget and objectives.
If you are deciding whether or not circulated bullion is for you, here is a rundown of the positives and negatives.
Pros of Purchasing Circulated Bullion
The price of
- Lower Premiums
The largest benefit of circulated bullion is that the premium above the spot price is lower. Because circulated items will have minor wear or no mint or original packaging, they are frequently sold more competitively. You will end up taking delivery of more metal per dollar.
- Same Metal Content, Same Value
Whether you’re taking in a bar or a coin, that underlying content of the metal never alters. A circulated 1 oz bar of gold contains 1 entire ounce of pure gold. You’re investing in the same amount of precious metal.
- Great for Bulk Investors
If you’re storing for weight—not looks— circulated coins are a good bet. Large volume investors are frequently more concerned about value than appearance, so circulated coins are their best bet.
- Easier to Sell to Dealers such as AU Bullion
Respected retailers such as AU Bullion purchase circulated and brand new bullion for resale. Circulated products that are genuine are always highly liquid and will resell easily.
Downside of Buying Circulated Bullion
- Not Sealed Packaging or Assay Cards
Most well-liked coins and bars are no longer offered in a sealed or assay card form. While this makes no difference in the metal content, this might be desirable for collectors or those considering long-term resale looks.
- Toning or Signs of Wear
Struck coins can have scratches, damage, or toning of the surface. These are cosmetic defects that do not affect the worth of the metal but could be of concern for those seeking mint items.
- Reduced Collectible Appeal
If you are a collectible value or a numismatist, circulated bullion coins are not necessarily the most appropriate. You will find that first strikes, proofs, or mint-state coins normally retain the higher premiums in the collectible market.
Who Should Purchase Circulated Bullion?
Circulated bullion is best suited for:
- Investors focused on metal weight and long-term value
- Individuals seeking to get additional silver or gold for fewer dollars
- Those who plan to hold rather than display their bullion
- Anyone willing to sacrifice a touch of pictorial perfection for lower costs
AU Bullion offers the lowest prices for circulated bullion
AU Bullion carries a wide selection of circulated silver and gold bars and coins from quality, well-established brands such as:
- Royal Canadian Mint
- Asahi Refining
- Valcambi Suisse
- Credit Suisse
- Perth Mint
- Royal Mint
- US Mint
- PAMP Suisse
- And more!
All of the items we offer—old or new—are thoroughly checked for weight and authenticity.
- No minimal purchase requirement
- Top dollar paid when you sell back to us
- Found throughout Canada and the United States.
Ready to Buy?
Come see us in our Toronto or Vancouver locations, or shop from home at aubullion.ca to purchase circulated bullion at the lowest market prices. Whether you’re an experienced stacker or a newcomer, circulated bullion is an intelligent, affordable way of diversifying your portfolio.