Bullion Basics: What to Know Before You Buy

If you're new to purchasing precious metals, product listings can seem confusing at first. At AU Bullion Canada, we want to help you buy with confidence by explaining the key specifications found on gold, silver, and platinum bullion.

Weight is one of the most important factors, as it directly affects the value of your investment. Bullion is typically measured in troy ounces, not regular ounces, with one troy ounce equaling about 31.1035 grams. Smaller items may be listed in grams, while bulk bars are sometimes sold by the kilogram. Common sizes include 1 oz gold bars, 10 oz and 1 kg silver bars, and 1g to 5g gold bars.

Purity tells you how much of the metal in the item is actually gold, silver, or platinum. It is usually expressed as a percentage or in parts per thousand. For example, 99.99% purity or .9999 fine gold indicates 24-karat gold. Typical purity levels include .9999 for gold, .999 or .9999 for silver, and .9995 for platinum. Higher purity generally means a better long-term investment.

Fineness is another way of describing purity. It plays a role in determining melt value and resale appeal. Examples include .9999 fine gold in Canadian Gold Maple Leafs, .999 fine silver in most silver coins and bars, and .9995 fine platinum.

Some bullion coins, such as the Canadian Maple Leaf, also have a face value—for instance, CAD $50 for a gold coin or CAD $5 for a silver coin. While symbolic, it grants the coin legal tender status in Canada.

The mint or brand behind a product can influence both trust and value. Top mints include the Royal Canadian Mint, PAMP Suisse, Asahi Refining, and Valcambi Suisse. Many gold bars also come sealed in assay cards, which confirm their weight, purity, and authenticity, often with serial numbers for added security.

At AU Bullion, we list all specifications clearly and provide live pricing, fast shipping, and personalized service. Whether you're buying your first gold coin or expanding your portfolio, understanding these details helps you invest wisely.