What is the Britannia Gold Coin?
The Britannia Gold Coin is the official bullion coin of the United Kingdom. It was launched in 1987 by The Royal Mint. Until 2012, the coin was minted in 22 carat (91.67%), but since 2013, it has been minted in 24 carat (99.99%).Â
Each 1 troy ounce version contains exactly 1 troy ounce of pure gold. The coin is legal tender in the UK, with the 1 oz version having a face value of £100.
Available denominations of the Gold Britannia
- 1 troy ounce (31.103 grams) Â
- 1/2 troy ounce Â
- 1/4 troy ounce Â
- 1/10 troy ounce Â
This selection makes the Britannia suitable for both large and small investments. You can choose from newly minted gold coins or pre-owned examples.Â
Pre-owned Britannia coins
Pre-owned coins have previously been owned and re-marketed through our partner, Inkoop Edelmetaal. They are rigorously inspected for weight, gold content, and authenticity. Â
Advantages of pre-owned Britannias: Â
- More affordable. Â
- Same intrinsic value as new. Â
- Full buyback guarantee. Â
- More sustainable alternative.Â
Design of the gold Britannia coin
Philip Nathan's iconic design depicts Britannia, the female embodiment of Great Britain, with a helmet, shield, and trident. Â
- Obverse: Portrait of Queen Elizabeth II (until 2022) or King Charles III (from 2023). Â
- Reverse: Britannia, standing on the shore, a symbol of protection and national strength.Â
History of the gold Britannia
Origin
The name Britannia dates back to Roman times. From the 17th century onwards, it appeared regularly on British coins. In 1987, the modern gold Britannia was introduced as the first official European bullion coin. Â
22-carat gold Britannias (1987–2012)
The first issues were minted in 22 carat (91.67%) and were slightly heavier due to copper and silver, but always contained 1 oz of pure gold. Â
Transition to 24 carat (from 2013)
Since 2013, Britannias have been minted in 24 carat (99.99%), comparable to the Maple Leaf and Philharmonic. For investors, the gold value of both 22k and 24k issues is identical and based on the current gold price. Â
Gold Britannia coin security features
Since 2021, the coin has featured four unique security elements: Â
- Latent feature – holographic effect (padlock ↔ trident) Â
- Surface animation – micro-engravings with an undulating movement Â
- Micro-text – inscription DECUS ET TUTAMEN Â
- Tincture lines – refined lines adding depth and texture Â
These innovations make the Britannia virtually impossible to counterfeit. At The Silver Mountain, all Britannia gold coins are also rigorously tested for both weight and gold content.
Why buy the gold Britannia coin?
✔ Highest gold purity (99.99%) Â
✔ Globally recognized and tradable Â
✔ Available in multiple denominations Â
✔ Advanced security features  Â
✔ Culturally and historically valuableÂ
Frequently asked questions about gold Britannia coins
Since when have gold Britannias been issued?
Since 1987 by The Royal Mint.
Which monarch is depicted on the coin?
- Until 2022: Queen Elizabeth II. From 2023: also King Charles III.
- From 2024: exclusively King Charles III.
What is the gold content of the gold Britannia coins?
- From 1987 to 2012: 91.67% (22 carat)
- From 2013: 99.99% (24 carat)
Are the gold Britannias VAT-exempt?
Yes, as investment gold, they are completely VAT-exempt in the EU.