1. Never clean your gold coins: patina is part of their value
A common beginner’s mistake is to polish coins to make them shine. But this can reduce their value.
Older coins – such as Napoleon 20F, Swiss Vreneli, or British Sovereigns – should retain their natural patina. Removing it with a cloth or abrasive product can:
• alter the engravings;
• leave micro-scratches;
• raise doubts about authenticity.
✅ Tip: never clean or polish your coins. A professional will use gentle, appropriate methods if needed.
2. Buying without checking authenticity: beware of counterfeits
Counterfeits are increasingly present in the gold market. Coins like Krugerrands, Maple Leafs, Austrian Philharmonics, and Vrenelis are often targeted. Many fakes are made in China and can deceive even experienced buyers.
Some contain tungsten (similar density to gold), others are gold-plated and hollow. These circulate via:
• online marketplaces (Le Bon Coin, 2ememain, etc.);
• unknown e-shops;
• unsupervised gold fairs.
✅ Tip: only buy from reputable dealers and established physical stores. Check reviews, verify traceability, packaging, and request a named invoice.
3. Falling for online traps: beware of “too good to be true” deals
Scams are common online. Some websites claim to sell gold “15% below market price” with vague promises of buyback, tax exemption, or free international delivery.
Warning signs:
• abnormally low prices;
• no legal information or contact details;
• websites hosted outside the EU;
• payment via crypto or untraceable methods.
✅ Tip: verify the company’s identity, address, and phone number. Check Google Reviews, Trustpilot, or numismatic forums.
4. Poor storage: don’t leave your gold exposed
Gold is discreet, but attractive to thieves. Keeping it in a drawer, jewelry box or uncertified home safe is risky. In case of theft or fire, home insurance may not cover the loss if the gold isn’t properly stored or declared.
✅ Tip:
• rent a safety deposit box — or use our own solution: GFI SAFE;
• don’t disclose your gold holdings to others.
5. Handling without care: pure gold scratches easily
Some coins are made of 999.9 fine gold, such as:
• the Canadian Maple Leaf;
• the Australian Nugget.
These sought-after coins are very soft and prone to damage, reducing their resale value.
✅ Tip: avoid skin contact and store them sealed or in capsules. Only handle when necessary.
6. Lack of diversification: not all coins have the same premium
Only buying Napoleons or gold bars isn’t ideal. Each format (e.g. 20g, 50g) has different market premiums depending on demand and rarity.
For example:
• a Napoleon 20F may sell at a 5% premium or just 2.5%;
• Maple Leafs and Sovereigns can become temporarily more sought after.
✅ Tip: build a diversified portfolio: modern and historical coins, small bars, pure gold and 900‰. It gives you more flexibility when selling.
7. Ignoring tax rules: it can impact your return
Gold taxation varies by country. In Belgium, investment gold is VAT-exempt for individuals, but:
• you must keep your invoices;
• transfers (gifts, inheritance) are subject to inheritance tax.
✅ Tip: speak to your accountant or notary. If buying through a company, other rules apply (VAT, depreciation...).
Conclusion: investing in gold is smart – doing it wisely is even better
Physical gold is a key component of a balanced portfolio: tangible, lasting, globally recognized. But managing it well requires simple yet essential habits. Cleaning a coin, buying blindly, or ignoring tax law can turn a good investment into a mistake.
By applying these 7 tips, you preserve the value of your gold and benefit fully from this timeless asset.
Trust an internationally recognized expert in physical gold
With over 20 years of experience in the precious metals trade, GFI is a trusted partner, known in Belgium and worldwide. Whether you wish to buy or sell physical gold, we provide expert support with discretion, transparency, and professionalism.
Our team welcomes you confidentially, with tailored advice, secure transactions, and the best market rates.
➡️Discover our gold coin buying/selling services
➡️Also explore our highly secure storage solution: GFI SAFE
