Tools
Premium Over Spot Calculator
Calculate the premium you are paying over spot price for any precious metals product. Compare dealer pricing to find the best value.
What is a Good Premium?
Premiums vary widely depending on the product type, dealer, and market conditions. Here are typical ranges under normal market conditions.
Government Coins
3% - 8%
American Eagles, Canadian Maples, and other sovereign-minted coins carry higher premiums due to legal tender status, recognizability, and anti-counterfeiting features.
Bars and Rounds
1% - 5%
Private mint bars and rounds have the lowest premiums. Larger sizes (10 oz, kilo) trend toward the low end. Generic rounds from well-known mints sit around 2-4%.
Junk Silver
5% - 15%
Pre-1965 US dimes, quarters, and half-dollars (90% silver) carry variable premiums. Supply is fixed and shrinking, so premiums can spike during periods of high demand.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is premium over spot?
Premium over spot is the difference between the price you pay for a precious metals product and the current spot price of the metal. It covers fabrication costs, dealer margins, and distribution. Premiums are expressed as a dollar amount or percentage above spot.
What is a good premium for gold?
For standard 1 oz gold bullion coins like American Gold Eagles, premiums typically range from 3-7% over spot. Government-minted coins carry higher premiums than private mint bars. Larger bars (10 oz, 1 kilo) have lower percentage premiums. During high demand periods, premiums can spike significantly.
Why do premiums vary between dealers?
Premiums vary based on dealer overhead costs, inventory sourcing, volume discounts, and competitive positioning. Some dealers offer lower premiums but charge for shipping, while others include free shipping at higher premiums. Always compare total cost, including shipping and insurance.