Define the product
Weight, fineness and refinery
Record gross weight, stated fineness, refinery or mint, serial information where applicable and product condition. Match those details to the invoice and inspection. Ask whether the quoted price uses gross weight or fine gold content.
Documentation and packaging
Identify the records accompanying the bar and what any certificate actually verifies. Sealed packaging is not a substitute for the agreed authentication process. LBMA refiner information supplies context about wholesale standards, not independent authentication of a specific retail bar. [1]
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Reference price and premium
Ask for the price reference, currency, timing, product premium and applicable charges. Compare the same form and quantity across quotations. This guide does not publish a live price: obtain a current quotation before a decision.
Validity and payment terms
Confirm when the quotation expires, when pricing becomes binding and what happens if settlement changes. Identify the payment recipient and any deposit conditions. Have unclear contractual terms reviewed before sending funds.
Agree verification before settlement
Methods and limitations
Ask a competent independent specialist which methods suit the bar and what the results can establish. LBMA’s physical market guidance addresses fineness assessment and limitations of screening. [2] Do not represent a photograph or branding check as conclusive proof.
Acceptance and disputes
Agree the criteria for acceptance, who pays for testing and whether opening packaging is necessary. Establish the response to a discrepancy before delivery or payment. Keep the records relating to the specific product.
Coordinate delivery and custody
Settlement responsibilities
Confirm the inspection, acceptance, payment and delivery sequence with identifiable counterparties. Do not assume a personal introduction allocates liability. Keep a record of instructions and verify changes through established contacts.
Storage and insurance
Check how ownership is recorded, how withdrawals work, charges and the scope of any insurance. Retain an inventory linked to invoices and identifiers. Ask about partial exits and requirements for future resale.
Review the purchase alongside property commitments
Capital already committed
Set aside the funds required for mortgage servicing, handovers and family obligations before considering a new long-term holding. Use portfolio liquidity planning to identify timing conflicts.
Retained capital and finance
If property finance leaves capital available, assess a metal purchase independently rather than assuming the proceeds of borrowing should fund it. Read home finance and retained capital and obtain appropriate professional advice on your overall position.
Source references
Checked 6 October 2026. Confirm current requirements with the responsible parties.
Describe the decision you are considering, your timing and the information already available.
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