1 gram Gold Bar – Brand Varies (Carded)

A 1 gram gold bar, often referred to as a “carded” or “in assay” bar, is a small, fractional piece of gold bullion that typically comes sealed in a tamper-evident package with an assay certificate.¹

Key Characteristics:

• Weight and Purity: A 1 gram gold bar contains exactly 1 gram of gold, which is equivalent to approximately 0.03215 troy ounces.² These bars are almost always made of .9999 fine gold (24 karat), which is the highest purity level for gold bullion.³

   

• Assay Card: The term “carded” refers to the protective assay card that the bar is sealed in.⁴ This card serves as a certificate of authenticity from the refiner, verifying the bar’s weight, purity, and often including a unique serial number.⁵ This makes it easier to verify the bar’s authenticity and value.⁶

   

• “Brand Varies” (or “Hallmark Varies”): When a dealer lists a product with “brand varies,” it means you will receive a 1 gram gold bar from a reputable refiner, but the specific brand is based on the dealer’s current inventory.⁷ This often results in a lower premium over the spot price of gold compared to buying a specific, popular brand.

   

Popular Brands:

While the brand you receive will vary, some of the most common and well-respected refiners of 1 gram gold bars include:

• PAMP Suisse (known for their “Lady Fortuna” design)⁸

   

• Valcambi Suisse⁹

   

• Argor-Heraeus¹⁰

   

• The Perth Mint¹¹

   

• Geiger Edelmetalle¹²

   

• Sunshine Minting¹³

   

Investment Considerations:

• Affordability: 1 gram gold bars are one of the most accessible entry points for new investors looking to buy physical gold.¹⁴ Their small size makes them more affordable than larger bars or coins.¹⁵

   

• Premiums: The premium over the spot price of gold is generally higher for smaller, fractional gold products like 1 gram bars compared to larger bars (e.g., 100g or 1 oz).¹⁶ This is due to the higher manufacturing and packaging costs per gram.

   

• Liquidity: The small size of 1 gram bars offers greater liquidity and flexibility.¹⁷ Investors can sell off small portions of their holdings without having to liquidate a larger, more expensive bar.¹⁸

   

• IRA Eligibility: Many 1 gram gold bars from recognized refiners are eligible for inclusion in a precious metals IRA.¹⁹