If you're thinking of investing in gold, there's one key question every UK investor should ask: Will I have to pay tax when I sell my gold?
The answer depends entirely on what kind of gold you own. And if you play it smart, you can legally and completely avoid Capital Gains Tax (CGT).
Let’s break it down.
What Is Capital Gains Tax?
Capital Gains Tax is a tax on the profit you make when you sell an asset that’s increased in value. This includes:
- Shares.
- Property (that isn’t your main home).
- Art and collectables.
- Some forms of bullion or foreign gold coins.
The current annual CGT allowance in the UK (2025/26) is just £3,000. Above that, gains are taxed at 10% to 20%, depending on your income.
Are Gold Coins Taxed?
Yes and no. It depends on the type of coin you hold.
✅ CGT-Exempt Gold Coins
Certain UK-issued gold coins are classed as legal tender. That means they are not subject to Capital Gains Tax, regardless of how much profit you make.
These include:
- Gold Britannias (1oz, ½oz, ¼oz, 1/10oz).
- The Queen’s Beasts series.
- The Tudor Beasts series.
- Sovereigns (full and half).
- The new King’s Beasts / British Lion series.
Because they are UK legal tender, any gains made on them are completely tax-free.
❌ Gold That Is NOT CGT-Exempt
- Gold bars (even 24-carat investment-grade).
- Non-UK coins (e.g., Krugerrands, Eagles, Maples).
- Numismatic or foreign collectable coins (unless individually exempt).
With these, CGT will apply if your gains exceed the annual threshold.
Why Does Legal Tender Matter?
The UK government classifies certain gold coins as currency, not just bullion. So they are excluded from CGT by law — a unique and powerful advantage for British investors.
This makes UK gold coins:
- Efficient for wealth preservation.
- Ideal for long-term holders.
- Smart for those wanting privacy and flexibility.
You can sell a significant volume of CGT-exempt gold without ever triggering a tax bill.
Why This Matters More Than Ever
With inflation surging and tax thresholds frozen or falling, more UK savers are being dragged into the CGT net.
But gold coins offer a rare loophole:
✅ No reporting required.
✅ No forms or paperwork.
✅ No CGT liability — even if the gold price doubles.
It’s one of the few ways to legally shield your gains from HMRC.
How to Buy CGT-Free Gold Coins
At Britannia Bullion, we only supply certified, CGT-exempt British gold coins, delivered next-day or stored securely with full allocation.
Popular options include:
-
1oz Gold Britannias
-
Queen’s and Tudor Beasts (with presentation cases)
-
Proof Sovereigns for collectors
-
The brand-new British Lion range from The Royal Mint
All are 100% tax-free on sale — now, and in the future.
Final Word: Don’t Let Tax Eat Your Profit
If you’re holding foreign gold coins or bars, your profits could be hit by Capital Gains Tax.
Switch to UK legal tender gold coins and make sure every ounce of your return is yours to keep.
Download our free guide to tax-efficient gold investing or speak to a Britannia Bullion advisor today.
