The 1 oz Johnson Matthey Gold Bar, particularly when “Carded” or in an assay package, is a highly desirable piece of bullion with a strong reputation. While the company is no longer an active producer of investment bullion bars for the retail market, its legacy and products remain a key part of the precious metals landscape.
History of Johnson Matthey
Johnson Matthey was a global leader in precious metals refining for over 200 years, with a reputation for quality and innovation. In 2015, the company sold its gold and silver refining operations to Asahi Holdings, Inc., a Japanese firm. This move effectively ended the production of new Johnson Matthey bullion bars and rounds, making their existing products “vintage” or “secondary market” items.
Key Features of a 1 oz Johnson Matthey Gold Bar (Carded)
- Manufacturer: Johnson Matthey. Since production has ceased, these are bars from the secondary market. The brand is now licensed to other mints for some products, but the original bars are the most sought-after.
- Purity and Weight: Most modern Johnson Matthey gold bars contain 1 troy ounce of .9999 fine gold (24 karat).
- Carded (In Assay): This is a critical feature for a vintage bar. The “carded” or “in assay” designation means the bar is sealed in a tamper-evident plastic holder that includes an assay certificate. This certificate guarantees the bar’s weight and purity as it was authenticated by the refiner. For a bar that is no longer in production, this assay card is a vital assurance of its authenticity and condition.
- Design: The designs can vary slightly depending on the year and specific refinery location (e.g., Salt Lake City, Utah, or Brampton, Canada). A common design features the “JM” logo with crossed hammers, the full name “JOHNSON MATTHEY,” the weight “1 OUNCE TROY,” and the purity “FINE GOLD 9999.” The bar also typically has a unique serial number stamped on its face.
- Collectibility: Because new Johnson Matthey bullion bars are no longer being made, they have gained a collector’s premium over the spot price of gold. The exact premium can vary based on the bar’s condition, design rarity, and whether it is still sealed in its original assay card.
Investment Considerations
- Liquidity: Despite being a vintage product, Johnson Matthey bars are exceptionally liquid due to their global recognition and trust. They are easily bought and sold through most precious metals dealers.
- IRA Eligibility: The high purity of these bars (.9999 fine gold) makes them eligible for a precious metals IRA. However, it is always wise to confirm with your IRA custodian about the specific eligibility of secondary market bullion products.
- Premium: The premium on these bars can be higher than on new, generic gold bars due to their vintage status and high demand from collectors as well as investors.
- Condition: The condition of the bar is important. A “carded” bar is expected to be in a better state of preservation than one that has been removed from its original packaging.
