Fractional gold coins offer a pivotal advantage through their approachable entry point. Unlike their one-ounce counterparts, which can entail higher costs, fractional coins permit investors to own gold with just a few hundred dollars or even smaller sums. This convenience widens access to gold ownership, allowing a broader demographic to engage in precious metal investments.
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The US Mint charges more to authorized purchasers compared to the Austrian Mint.
so eagles will always carry a higher premium. However, it’s ultimately driven by supply and demand. The US Mint and RCM have struggled to keep up with demand since the pandemic began, while the Austrian Mint has managed better. Eagles and maples are generally more popular, further widening the supply/demand gap. If the Austrian Mint significantly slowed down production, those premiums might come closer to what maples are fetching these days.
Philharmonics consistently boast remarkably low premiums.
making them a preferred choice. In contrast, U.S. gold tends to carry the highest premiums and isn’t as attractive internationally compared to other global bullions.
Notably, the population of the U.S. is 40 times that of Austria, where Philharmonics originate. However, despite this significant population difference, the number of American Silver Eagles (ASE) minted is only 10 times that of Philharmonics.
Fractional gold coins are a great option for investors who want to buy gold coins but may not have the budget for larger coins. Fractional gold coins are also great for bartering opportunities, which is not always possible with larger gold coins. Here are some of the best fractional gold coins to buy:
- Gold American Eagle Coin: This coin is one of the workhorses of the fractional gold coin industry. First minted in 1986, it has been a popular choice for investors ever since.
- Canadian Maple Leaf: This coin is one of the most popular gold coins in the world. It is available in 1/20-, 1/10-, 1/4-, and 1/2-ounce sizes.
- Gold Philharmonic: This coin is produced by the Austrian Mint and is one of the most popular gold coins in Europe. It is available in 1/10-, 1/4-, 1/2-, and 1-ounce sizes.
- U.S. Gold Eagle: This coin is available in 1/10-, 1/4-, 1/2-, and 1-ounce sizes. It is one of the most popular gold coins in the world.
- South African Krugerrand: This coin was first minted in 1967 and is one of the most popular gold coins in the world. It is available in 1/10-, 1/4-, 1/2-, and 1-ounce sizes.
Investors should consider their budget, investment goals, and personal preferences when choosing which fractional gold coins to buy. It is also important to buy from reputable dealers to ensure the authenticity of the coins.
Looking for low premiums when buying fractional gold coins?
European fractional gold coins from the late 19th and early 20th centuries often have some of the lowest premiums on gold. And among them, the French 20 Francs “Rooster” gold coin is a popular choice for investors looking to buy fractional gold.
Low premium on British Sovereigns, Swiss Francs, and Old European Gold
I recommend buying British Sovereigns and LMU coins because they combine rich history with low premiums—a throwback to when money had real, tangible value. Old European gold like Sovereigns, Francs, and Ducats is beautiful and collectible, though it can be tricky to sell in certain areas. In major cities, you’ll have no issue, but rural regions may have fewer buyers familiar with these coins.
Personally, I love stacking Sovereigns, but I’m equally fond of Swiss Francs for their affordability and timeless design. It’s always a pleasant surprise to find slabbed examples of these coins, as they attract dedicated collectors worldwide. While Angels, Roosters, and Austrian 100 Corona coins may be popular in some circles, they aren’t as well-known outside of major cities, so you might need to head to a metropolitan area to get fair value.
Yes, American Gold Eagles, Krugerrands, and Buffalos are also beautiful and in demand. But with premiums often north of 5-7%, those prices quickly add up, meaning less actual gold for your money. That’s why Swiss Francs and other old European gold coins are a solid choice—you can’t go wrong with Swiss!
Lowest premium Gold: European Coins from the Late 19th and Early 20th Centuries
some of the lowest premiums on gold can be found in vintage coins that were minted in Europe in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. These coins are often .900 or .917 fine, which may be why they are discounted. Some examples of these coins include 20 Francs, 100 Coronas, Gold Ducats, and Dutch Guldens. These coins are often the cheapest gold coins for investors, with premiums ranging from 2% to 5%. However, it is worth noting that premiums have been increasing lately.
Pros of investing in European 19th and early 20th century gold coins:
- Lower premiums: These coins often have lower premiums than other gold coins.
- Smaller sizes: These coins come in smaller sizes, making them more affordable for investors with smaller budgets.
- Ease of recognition: Some investors may find these coins easier to recognize.
The French 20 Francs “Rooster” coins.
For enthusiasts of history and numismatics, fractional gold coins encapsulate an added layer of allure. Coins like the French 20 Francs “Napoleon” or the iconic “Rooster” coins carry historical resonance and a timeless charm, connecting contemporary investors to bygone eras. Minted decades ago, these coins stand as enduring testaments to gold’s perpetual value across the annals of history. In the US, the typical premium for a French 20 Francs “Rooster” gold coin is between 5% and 12%, right now 10% on APMEX: The premium for one French 20 Francs “Rooster” gold coin is currently 10% off the premium, with a price range of $379.97 to $381.97. 20 Francs are, hands down, the gold coins with the coolest designs and the most fascinating history, not to mention their easy liquidity as fractional coins. Honestly, they come with some of the lowest premiums out there. I’ve spotted them going for almost spot price at certain places. Especially in America, people seem to overlook the value of foreign gold coins, sticking to coins with eagles and presidents.
I’ve actually started a collection for my little one – one for each month of her life. It’s an affordable size with low premiums if you pick the right types. The goal is to reach 216 by the time she turns 18, which is quite ambitious, but who knows, maybe I can pull it off. Francly speaking, I adore 20 Francs gold coins, just like the one you posted!
Here are some key points to consider:
Pros:
- Fractional gold: The French 20 Francs “Rooster” gold coin is a fractional gold coin, containing 0.1867 ounces of pure gold. This makes it a more affordable option for investors with smaller budgets.
- Recognized worldwide: The French 20 Francs “Rooster” gold coin is recognized worldwide and is a classic French coin. This can make it easier to sell or trade in the future.
- Low premiums: The French 20 Francs “Rooster” gold coin often has low premiums compared to other gold coins.
Cons:
- Limited availability: The French 20 Francs “Rooster” gold coin is a vintage coin, minted between 1899 and 1914. This means that it may have limited availability and may be harder to find.
Regarding selling strategies, there’s a suggestion to consider alternatives like generics, Philharmonics, or Britannias over Silver Eagles due to potentially higher premiums. Factors influencing premiums include production costs, supply and demand dynamics, and the responsiveness of mints to market demand. In conclusion, the precious metals market offers a diverse landscape with various coins, each having unique appeal, history, and considerations for both investors and collectors.