- Mint condition
- Box + CoA
Discover which products suit your preference and budget. Enter your preferences and receive an instant tailored recommendation.
Origin and design
The Vienna Philharmonic was introduced by the Münze Osterreich in 1989. It was the first European coin in 24-carat gold that was also denominated in euros. The design is by Thomas Pesendorfer, then chief engraver of the mint, and pays tribute to Vienna's rich musical tradition.
- Obverse: an ensemble of musical instruments from the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra—cello, violins, harp, horn, and bassoon—symbolizes Austria's cultural wealth.
- Reverse: the imposing organ in the Golden Hall of the Musikverein, the venue for the famous New Year's Concert. Around it are engraved the weight, purity (999.9), year and face value (€100 for the 1 oz).
Features of the golden Philharmonic
Specifications of the gold Vienna Philharmonic
- Purity: 999.9/1000 (24 carat)
- Weights: 1 oz, 1/2 oz, 1/4 oz, 1/10 oz, and 1/25 oz
- Producer: Münze Österreich, active since 1194
- Status: globally recognized investment gold
The Philharmoniker is part of our wide range of gold coins, which also includes other international classics such as the Krugerrand and Maple Leaf.
Specifications of the 1 troy ounce gold Philharmonic coin
- Weight: 31.103 grams
- Diameter: 37 mm
- Thickness: 2 mm
- Purity: 999.9/1000 (24 carat)
- Nominal value: €100 or 1000 schillings
Philharmoniker compared to other gold coins
| Coin | Mint | Purity | Special feature | Region / popularity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wiener Philharmoniker | Münze Österreich | 999.9/1000 (24k) | First European bullion coin in euros, symbol of musical culture | Popular in the EU, tax-efficient |
| Krugerrand | South African Mint | 916.7/1000 (22k) | World’s first bullion coin (1967), reddish tone due to copper | Most traded worldwide |
| Maple Leaf | Royal Canadian Mint | 999.9/1000 (24k) | Micro-engraving & anti-counterfeiting features | Popular in North America and Europe |
| Britannia |
Pre-owned Philharmoniker coins
In addition to new coins, The Silver Mountain also offers pre-owned Philharmoniker coins. These come from private investors who have sold their coins through Inkoop Edelmetaal. Each coin is carefully checked for weight, purity, and authenticity.
Second-hand Philharmoniker coins are attractive to investors because they are particularly popular in Europe and are often resold quickly. This means that pre-owned coins are not only more affordable, but also immediately available and easy to resell.
Sell Philharmoniker gold
Would you like to sell your Philharmoniker gold coins? You can do so easily through our sister company Inkoop Edelmetaal.
- Always at least 100% of the current gold price for 1 oz coins
- No distinction between years of issue or slight signs of wear
- Fast and secure payment
These are the most asked questions about the Gold Vienna Philharmonic
Frequently asked questions about gold Philharmoniker coins
Which weights of the Gold Vienna Philharmonic are available for investors?
The Gold Vienna Philharmonic is minted by the Münze Österreich, the Austrian Mint, and is available in several popular weights. The selection ranges from the 1 troy ounce standard size down to smaller fractions like 1/2 oz, 1/4 oz, and 1/10 oz. Every coin contains 99.99% pure gold, which is equivalent to 24-karat fineness. This composition guarantees the maximum purity and excellent global tradability.
Is the Gold Vienna Philharmonic VAT-exempt, unlike its silver counterpart?
Yes, the Gold Vienna Philharmonic is exempt from Value Added Tax (VAT) because the coin meets the strict criteria set by the European Union for investment-grade gold. The silver Philharmonic is not VAT-exempt, as silver is treated differently for tax purposes. This fiscal advantage makes purchasing the gold Philharmonic particularly attractive for private investors within the EU.
What is the main difference between the Gold Philharmonic and the Gold Krugerrand?
The crucial distinction lies in the gold content and alloy composition. The Gold Philharmonic is struck in 99.99% pure gold or 24-karat fineness. The Gold Krugerrand, however, is struck in 22-karat gold (91.67% gold), which is alloyed with copper for increased durability. While both coins are highly liquid worldwide, purity-focused investors often choose the 24-karat Philharmonic, the only bullion coin denominated in Euros (€).
How easily can I sell my Gold Philharmonic coins later?
The Gold Philharmonic is one of the most liquid gold bullion coins globally, making the process of selling very straightforward. You can offer the coins to any recognized precious metals dealer worldwide, or sell them through our partner website Inkoop Edelmetaal if this is applicable. Due to the coin's 24-karat purity and massive popularity, the transaction costs or spread upon resale are typically low.
What is the face value versus the intrinsic value of the Gold Philharmonic?
The Gold Philharmonic carries a face value that is guaranteed by the Austrian government. The 1 troy ounce coin has a face value of €100. However, the coin's intrinsic gold value, which is based on the current worldwide spot price and its weight, is in practice always substantially higher than the nominal face value.