Eligible gold coins compared
| Coin | Mint | Purity | IRA-eligible |
|---|---|---|---|
| American Gold Eagle | US Mint | 91.67% (22k) | Yes, named exception |
| American Gold Buffalo | US Mint | 99.99% | Yes |
| Canadian Gold Maple Leaf | Royal Canadian Mint | 99.99% | Yes |
| Austrian Gold Philharmonic | Austrian Mint | 99.99% | Yes |
| British Gold Britannia (2013+) | Royal Mint | 99.99% | Yes |
| South African Krugerrand | South African Mint | 91.67% (22k) | No |
Why the Gold Eagle is allowed and the Krugerrand isn't
Both coins are 22-karat, alloyed with a little copper and silver for durability, and both contain one full ounce of gold. The difference is legal, not physical. The tax code specifically lists US-minted gold coins like the Eagle as permitted IRA investments, even though they fall below the 99.5% purity standard that applies to everything else. No such exception exists for the Krugerrand, so it doesn't qualify.
American Gold Eagle versus Gold Buffalo
These are the two US Mint bullion coins. The Eagle is more durable and the most recognized gold coin in the country. The Buffalo is pure 24-karat gold, softer and easier to scratch, and typically costs about the same. Either is a solid core holding. Pick based on which carries the lower premium when you buy.
Foreign mint coins
The Maple Leaf, Philharmonic and Britannia are all 99.99% pure one-ounce coins from respected national mints. US dealers buy them readily, and they often cost a little less over spot than the Eagle. They're a practical way to get more gold for the same budget.
Our recommended provider's free kit lists IRA-eligible gold and silver and explains how a rollover works. Best fit if you have $50,000 or more to diversify.
Request the Free KitCoins to keep out of an IRA
- Pre-1933 US gold coins such as old Double Eagles. They're priced as collectibles and aren't eligible.
- Graded or slabbed coins sold for their condition or rarity rather than their gold content.
- Commemorative and "limited mintage" coins marketed at large premiums. Some are technically eligible, but you pay far above the gold value.
Be wary of anyone pushing these hard. Numismatic coins often carry much bigger dealer margins than bullion, and that margin comes out of your retirement savings.
One ounce or fractional?
At around $4,160 an ounce in mid-October 2026, a single one-ounce coin is a big purchase. Fractional coins in 1/10, 1/4 and 1/2 ounce sizes make gold easier to buy and sell in smaller pieces, but minting costs are spread over less metal, so you pay more per ounce. For an IRA, where you're rarely selling small amounts, one-ounce coins usually make more sense.
Frequently asked questions
Are proof Gold Eagles IRA-eligible?
Yes, in original mint packaging, but they cost much more than bullion Eagles for the same gold.
Can I move coins I already own into my IRA?
No. You can't contribute metal you already own. IRA metal has to be bought with money inside the account.