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Gold and silver may get most of the attention in the precious metals world, but it’s impossible to overstate the value of platinum. The metal has performed well throughout history, and it seems poised to go even higher. This has led many people to seek the best platinum coins to buy.
Of course, there are plenty of options to choose from. Platinum has been used in the production of coins since at least the early 18th century. Coinage from that time would certainly hold collector’s value, but for those merely seeking an investment, modern examples work just fine.
The following are some of the best platinum coins you can buy right now as an investment. Each of them contains a purity of .9995 — making them perfect bullion options — but that’s where the similarities end. You’ll find that each of these pieces has its own unique story.
Austrian Philharmonic Platinum Coin
Hailing from Austria and featuring instruments from the Vienna Orchestra, the Austrian Philharmonic platinum coin is one of the most popular bullion options out there. While it’s only been in production since 1989, it comes from a mint that’s operated since 1194.
There are many factors that make this one of the best platinum coins available. To start, its beauty is simply unmatched. The featured instruments are aligned beautifully, and the opposing side of the coin shows the orchestra itself.
The coin also carries a relatively high face value — EUR 100 — which means it would hold value even if the price of platinum bottomed out. Of course, even when the metal dropped significantly in 1972, it only went down under $100 for a single day.
Since that time, however, the price has easily regained its footing. This means the Austrian Philharmonic option offers more than just one of the best platinum coins for investing — it offers the potential for a steadily increasing investment.
RCM War of 1812 Platinum Coin
If you’re looking to just test the waters of platinum investing, the RCM War of 1812 coin might be right for you. With only half an ounce of the precious metal, you can buy your first bullion piece without breaking the bank. Once you get a look at the coin’s beauty, though, you’ll be hooked.
The obverse side features Queen Elizabeth II — as many Canadian rounds do — but the reverse has two majestic creatures. A lion and eagle — representative of Britain and America — surround Canada’s military shield. It’s not just beauty, however, that makes this one of the best platinum coins.
The coin has a value of CAD $10, but even at a half ounce, its intrinsic worth is much higher. The history portrayed on the coin, however, is of far more value to Canada. It memorializes an important event in history — the War of 1812 — and serves as a reminder of Canada’s tenacity.
At the time the war broke out, Canada was merely a British colony. America didn’t expect the colony to play a major role, but with partners ranging from indigenous Americans to freed slaves, Canada rose above expectations. This event was a major step in the country gaining independence.
American Eagle Platinum Coin
Experts expect the value of platinum to rise in the coming years. A major contributor to this is demand in the auto industry — an industry that America excels in. Because of this, it makes sense that America would produce one of the best platinum coins available for purchase.
First released in 1997 and featuring the work of two artists, the American Eagle platinum coin has massive demand around the globe. It features both the Statue of Liberty and a bald eagle. Of course, the U.S. Mint guarantee holds more value than these beautifully artistic features.
The significant face value (i.e., $100), iconic imagery and high platinum content all help drive continued demand for this coin. In fact, the U.S. Mint had to ration out its supply in recent years. So if collector and investor demand mean anything, this is no doubt one of the best platinum coins out there.
Canadian Maple Leaf Platinum Coin
America’s official platinum coin is widely regarded as the world’s most popular. If that’s the case, however, the Canadian Maple Leaf platinum coin isn’t far behind. The Royal Canadian Mint has produced the coin since 1988, but it’s come a long way since that time.
Many people feel that the security measures used by the mint make this one of the best platinum coins available. The feature that stands out the most, though, is the unique bullion DNA technology used in production. This is an authentication system that ensures your coin is real.
Of course, the beautiful maple leaf design — used in Canadian currency since 1979 — adds aesthetic value that rivals the intrinsic worth. And while few people will ever use the coin for its CAD $50 face value, it never hurts to have the option available.
Queen’s Virtues: Victory Platinum Coin
Beauty is a subjective measure, but you’re unlikely to find anyone who doesn’t believe the Queen’s Virtues: Victory platinum coin qualifies. The reverse features the Winged Angel of Victory along with the words “VICTORY THROUGH HARMONY.”
It’s part of a six-coin series that feature allegorical personifications of the Queen’s Virtues: Victory, Charity, Truth, Courage, Justice and Constancy. The virtues first showed up on Buckingham Palace’s memorial for Queen Victoria.
Even when compared to the other best platinum coins available, the Queen’s Virtue series stands out since it comes from the Saint Helena Treasury and East India Company. These both played a significant role in growing world commerce.
Are the Best Platinum Coins Better Than Bullion Bars?
The platinum coins discussed in this guide are among the most popular in the world. If you’re taking your first steps into bullion investing, though, you may wonder if buying coins is the right move. After all, many people buy platinum bullion bars and never even consider coins.
Do these individuals just prefer basic bullion? If all bullion is the same, this would have to be the only explanation. As it turns out, however, all bullion is not the same. The following are just a few of the benefits you’ll get from buying platinum bars rather than coins:
- You’re just investing in platinum: When you buy a bullion bar, you’re solely investing in platinum. When you buy coins, you’re getting artistic and collector’s value as well.
- Lower premium: Bullion coins cost more to produce than bars. These costs get passed on to the consumer. If you’ve ever wondered why a 1-ounce coin costs more than the spot price of a metal, this is the precise reason.
- Easier to store: One thing that all precious metals have in common is that bullion bars are easier to store. They’re flat, compact and stackable. You can store far more bars in a safe or other storage area than you can a bunch of coin rolls.
Of course, this shouldn’t scare you away from the best platinum coins. When you invest in coinage, you’ll get a larger selection, great liquidity, increased value and a measure of legal tender value that keeps the item in high demand.
When choosing between platinum bars and coins, there is no answer that’s right for everyone. You’ll need to consider your investment goals and strategies, and it also never hurts to let your personal preferences have a say. Either way, you’re getting a substantial investment.
Start Investing in the Best Platinum Coins Today!
If you’re ready to invest in platinum, there’s no shortage of amazing coins available. Other than their precious metal content and subject matter, your options are relatively similar. This means you’re getting a great investment regardless of the coin you choose.
Your top priority when buying platinum coins, though, should be working with a reliable company. Counterfeit platinum items have made their way to the marketplace. By only purchasing items from reputable precious metals dealers, you can ensure you’re getting authentic bullion.
At Silver Gold Bull, we pride ourselves on our reputation. If you’re looking for the best platinum coins to buy, we’ve got a massive selection of items that are all guaranteed. Visit our Platinum Coins page today to see your options and choose your new favorite coin.
