GOLD 3,281.23 ▲0.36% SILVER 49.02 ▲0.70% PLATINUM 1,348.85 ▲0.50% PALLADIUM 1,043.61 ▲0.00% £/oz Counter: Mon–Fri 9.00–17.00 · Sat 9.30–13.00 · 01892 000 000

Why silver carries VAT and gold does not

Investment gold has been VAT exempt in the UK since 2000, provided it is at least 995 fine for bars, or a legal tender coin of at least 900 fine sold at a small premium. That covers everything in our gold range.

Silver, platinum and palladium have no such exemption. They are standard rated, so VAT at 20% is included in every silver, platinum and palladium price on this site. You cannot reclaim it unless you are a VAT-registered business buying for a business purpose.

What that means for silver as an investment

Silver has to rise by about 20% before you break even on a coin bought at retail, on top of the dealer premium. Silver Britannias are at least capital gains tax free, which helps on the way out.