Krugerrand Gold Coins: Where to Buy (Are They Illegal?)

Last Updated on December 4, 2023

The Krugerrand, a highly sought-after gold coin originating from South Africa, has held the fascination of both investors and collectors since its introduction in 1967.

As the first modern gold bullion coin, the Krugerrand pioneered the gold investment market and set the stage for other gold coins such as the Canadian Maple Leaf, the American Eagle, and the Australian Nugget.

This article will explore the Krugerrand gold coin, its value, factors influencing that value, investment potential, pros and cons, and where to buy them.

What is a Krugerrand?

The Krugerrand is a South African gold coin, first minted in 1967 by the South African Mint. The coin is named after Paul Kruger, a prominent historical figure and former president of the old South African Republic, and the rand, the South African currency.

The Krugerrand is made from 22-karat gold (91.67% pure gold) and is alloyed with 8.33% copper, making it more durable and resistant to scratches than pure gold coins.

Krugerrands are available in various sizes, including 1/10, 1/4, 1/2, and 1 ounce, with the one-ounce coin being the most popular. The obverse of the coin features a portrait of Paul Kruger, while the reverse depicts a springbok antelope, a national symbol of South Africa.

Krugerrands are legal tender in South Africa, but their primary purpose is to serve as an investment in gold.

How Much is a Krugerrand Worth?

The value of a Krugerrand is primarily determined by its gold content and the current market price of gold. Since Krugerrands are 22-karat gold, a one-ounce Krugerrand contains exactly one troy ounce (31.1035 grams) of pure gold. Therefore, the value of a Krugerrand will fluctuate with the gold market, which is subject to global economic factors, supply and demand, and investor sentiment.

As an example, if the current market price of gold is $1,800 per ounce, a one-ounce Krugerrand would be worth approximately $1,800.

However, the actual market value of a Krugerrand may be slightly higher due to its premium. Premiums vary depending on factors such as coin size, dealer reputation, and demand, but they usually range between 3% to 8% above the gold spot price.

What Influences Their Value?

Several factors influence the value of Krugerrand coins:

• Gold Spot Price: The primary determinant of a Krugerrand’s value is the current market price of gold, which changes throughout the day due to trading activities and economic factors.
• Coin Size: Smaller Krugerrand coins, such as the 1/10-ounce version, typically have a higher premium compared to larger coins, making them more expensive per ounce of gold.
• Condition: The condition of a Krugerrand can affect its value, with uncirculated or proof coins generally commanding higher premiums than circulated coins.
• Rarity: While most Krugerrand coins are minted in large quantities, certain years or sizes may be rarer and more valuable to collectors.
• Market Demand: The demand for Krugerrand coins can also influence their value, with higher demand leading to increased premiums.

Are Krugerrand Coins a Good Investment?

Krugerrand coins have long been considered a reliable investment, particularly for those seeking to diversify their portfolios and hedge against inflation or economic uncertainty. Some of the reasons why Krugerrands are considered a good investment include:

• Liquidity: Krugerrand coins are widely recognized and easily traded, making them a highly liquid investment. Investors can quickly sell their Krugerrands to take advantage of market opportunities or access cash in times of need.
• Store of Value: Gold has been a store of value for thousands of years and has maintained its purchasing power over time. By investing in Krugerrands, investors can protect their wealth against inflation, currency devaluation, and economic instability.
• Portfolio Diversification: Adding gold in the form of Krugerrand coins to an investment portfolio can help to diversify holdings and reduce overall risk. Gold often performs well during periods of economic turmoil, offsetting losses in other assets such as stocks and bonds.
• Tax Advantages: Depending on the country of residence, Krugerrand coins may offer tax advantages for investors, such as exemption from value-added tax (VAT) or capital gains tax.

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: How Much Does a Gold Bar Weigh?

Pros and Cons of Owning Krugerrand Coins

Like any investment, owning Krugerrand coins comes with its pros and cons.

Pros

• Liquidity: Krugerrands are easily bought and sold, offering a high degree of liquidity for investors.
• Recognizability: As one of the most popular gold bullion coins, Krugerrands are widely recognized and accepted worldwide.
• Durability: The 22-karat gold alloy used in Krugerrands makes them more durable and resistant to scratches than pure gold coins.
• Investment Security: Investing in gold, such as Krugerrands, can provide a hedge against inflation, currency devaluation, and economic uncertainty.

Cons

• Storage: Krugerrand coins need to be securely stored, which may require purchasing a safe or paying for a safe deposit box, adding to the overall cost of ownership.
• Insurance: Depending on the value of the coins, additional insurance may be required to protect against theft or loss, further increasing the cost of ownership.
• Premiums: Krugerrand coins typically carry a premium above the gold spot price, making them more expensive than some other forms of gold investment, such as gold bars or ETFs.

Where to Buy Krugerrand Coins

Krugerrand coins can be purchased from a variety of sources:

• Local Coin Dealers: Many local coin shops sell Krugerrand coins. Buying from a local dealer allows you to inspect the coins before purchase and establish a relationship with the dealer for future transactions.
• Online Retailers: There are numerous reputable online gold retailers that specialize in gold and silver bullion, including Krugerrand coins. Buying online can offer competitive prices and a wide selection but may require additional research to ensure the retailer’s reputation.
• Gold Brokerages: Some gold brokerages offer Krugerrand coins as part of their investment services. These firms can help guide investors in their gold investment decisions and may offer additional services such as storage and insurance.
• Auctions and Peer-to-Peer Sales: Krugerrand coins can also be found at coin auctions or through peer-to-peer sales platforms, such as eBay. While these sources can offer unique buying opportunities, it is essential to exercise caution and due diligence when purchasing from individuals or non-reputable sellers.

Are Krugerrand Coins Illegal?

Krugerrand coins are not inherently illegal. However, there was a period during which their importation was banned in some countries due to the South African apartheid regime.

In the United States, for example, the import of Krugerrand coins was prohibited from 1985 to 1991 as part of economic sanctions against South Africa.

This ban was lifted after the apartheid regime ended and South Africa took steps toward establishing a multiracial democracy.

Today, Krugerrand coins are legal to buy, sell, and own in most countries. However, it is always essential to check the specific laws and regulations in your country of residence to ensure compliance when buying or selling Krugerrand coins or any other gold bullion products.

Summary

The Krugerrand gold coin is a widely recognized and popular investment option for those looking to invest in gold.

With its durable 22-karat gold composition, liquidity, and global acceptance, the Krugerrand offers investors a relatively secure and easily traded investment.

However, potential investors should consider the costs associated with storage, insurance, and premiums when deciding whether Krugerrand coins are the right choice for their investment portfolio.

Ultimately, Krugerrands can serve as an effective hedge against inflation and economic uncertainty while providing portfolio diversification. For those interested in owning physical gold, Krugerrand coins remain a popular and accessible option.

It is crucial, however, to research and assess the reputation of dealers and retailers, whether purchasing locally or online, to ensure a smooth and secure transaction.

By carefully considering the pros and cons of owning Krugerrand coins and evaluating individual investment goals, investors can make informed decisions about whether to include these iconic gold coins in their portfolios.

Interested in investing in gold? See why Goldco is our top-rated precious metals company: