Every gold coin has a floor price
A gold coin is worth at least the value of the gold inside it. That figure — the melt value or intrinsic value — is simple arithmetic: the coin’s fine gold content multiplied by the current gold price. A collectable coin, a rare date or a coin in exceptional condition can be worth more than its gold. It is very rarely worth less.
Because the gold price is near its highest level on record, the floor price of every gold coin has risen sharply. A Sovereign that changed hands for a fraction of today’s figure a decade ago now holds far more gold value — without the coin itself changing at all.
Gold coin values at a glance
Fine gold content is a published mint specification — it does not change. The illustrative gold value below is that content priced at £3,600 per troy ounce.
| Coin | Fine gold content | Illustrative gold value | UK CGT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full Sovereign | 0.2354 oz (7.32g) | £847 | Exempt* |
| Half Sovereign | 0.1177 oz (3.66g) | £424 | Exempt* |
| Britannia 1oz | 1.000 oz (31.1g) | £3,600 | Exempt* |
| Krugerrand 1oz | 1.000 oz (31.1g) | £3,600 | May apply |
*Sovereigns and Britannias are UK legal tender and are exempt from Capital Gains Tax for UK residents. Krugerrands are not UK legal tender, so a gain may be subject to CGT. GoldPaid is not a tax adviser. Check your own position with HMRC or an accountant.
Choose your coin
What changes a coin’s value beyond the gold
- Condition. A bullion coin in ordinary circulated condition trades close to its gold value. An uncirculated or proof coin can carry a premium.
- Date and mint. Most modern bullion coins are valued for their metal. Certain dates, mints or low-mintage years are sought after by collectors.
- Coin versus jewellery. Coins are usually a known purity and weight, which makes them quick to value. Mounted coins (in a ring or pendant) are assessed on their gold content like jewellery.
- The live gold price. The single biggest factor. The same coin is worth more on a day the market is high.
If you are not sure whether a coin is “just bullion” or something a collector would pay extra for, send a photo. We will tell you honestly — including when a coin is worth more sold as a collectable than melted.
How to sell gold coins by post
- Ask first. Message GoldPaid on WhatsApp with a clear photo of each coin. We give you a quick indicative figure and answer any questions — before anything is posted.
- Request your free label. If you want to proceed, we send a free, prepaid, tracked Royal Mail Special Delivery label, or a QR code for the Post Office counter.
- Post your coins. Wrap them so they cannot move, hand the parcel in at any Post Office, and keep your proof of postage. Royal Mail Special Delivery cover may be available up to £2,500 depending on the postal method and cover level used — we confirm the right option for higher-value parcels before you post.
- Decide. We assay and weigh your coins, send a written offer, and pay by bank transfer once you accept. Decline and everything is returned free of charge.
Why sell your coins to GoldPaid
GoldPaid is a UK-wide postal gold and silver buyer. You never need to visit a shop, you are never pressured, and you see a written breakdown before you decide. Coins are valued on confirmed gold content against the live market, with a clear margin shown — not a vague counter offer.
Common questions
How do I know what my gold coin is worth?
Start with the gold content — the fine ounces of gold in the coin — and multiply by the current gold price. That is the floor value. For an accurate figure on your specific coins, send a photo to GoldPaid on WhatsApp; the firm offer follows an assay.
Are gold coins worth more than scrap gold?
Per gram of gold, the metal is worth the same. The advantage of coins is that their purity and weight are known mint specifications, so they are quick to value — and some carry a collectable premium on top of their gold content.
Do you buy single coins?
Yes. Whether it is one Sovereign found in a drawer or a full collection, you can post it to GoldPaid with a free, insured, prepaid Royal Mail label and receive a no-obligation valuation.
Will I be taxed on selling gold coins?
Sovereigns and Britannias are UK legal tender and are exempt from Capital Gains Tax for UK residents. Krugerrands and gold bars are not UK legal tender, so a gain may be subject to CGT. GoldPaid is not a tax adviser. Check your own position with HMRC or an accountant.