THE ESSENTIALS · 4 MIN READ
The price you see isn’t always the price you pay.
Understand spot prices, dealer premiums and the costs between them.
Spot is a reference, not a checkout total
A quoted spot price is a market reference for metal. A finished coin or bar has fabrication, distribution and dealer costs. The exact product, order size and payment method can change the premium.
Compare the complete purchase
For an illustrative example, suppose one fine troy ounce has a spot value of $2,000. A $100 premium and $20 delivery charge make the purchase $2,120 before any applicable tax. This example is hypothetical, not a current quote.
Calculate the premium fairly
Subtract the metal value from the product price, then divide by the metal value to calculate the product premium percentage. Keep shipping and taxes separate so you can compare like-for-like offers. Use fine-metal content, not the total weight of an alloy coin.
Remember the selling side
The amount you receive when selling is a separate quote. A dealer may offer below spot or pay a product premium; policies vary. Ask for a current written buyback quote and confirm all charges.