Bullion · Guides
Gold Eagle vs. Krugerrand vs. Maple Leaf: Which 1 oz Gold Coin Should You Buy?
All three hold one troy ounce of gold. The real differences are purity, durability, IRA eligibility and the premium you pay.
Side-by-side specifications
| Coin | Issuer | Fineness | Gold content | Total weight | Face value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| American Gold Eagle | U.S. Mint | .9167 (22k) | 1.0000 oz | 1.0909 oz · 33.93 g | $50 |
| Krugerrand | South African Mint | .9167 (22k) | 1.0000 oz | 1.0909 oz · 33.93 g | None |
| Gold Maple Leaf | Royal Canadian Mint | .9999 (24k) | 1.0000 oz | 1.0000 oz · 31.10 g | C$50 |
Specifications as published by each issuing mint.
What's the same
Gold content. All three contain one full troy ounce of pure gold, so their melt value is identical on any given day. The extra weight of the Eagle and the Krugerrand is copper and silver alloy, not extra gold.
What's different
Durability: 22-karat coins handle wear better, which matters if they will be handled or carried. 24-karat Maple Leafs show marks more easily.
IRA eligibility: U.S. rules accept the Gold Eagle and the Maple Leaf in a precious-metals IRA, but not the Krugerrand.
Premium: what you pay over spot depends on the dealer and the market that week, not on the coin's gold content.
Which one should you buy?
For an IRA, choose the Eagle or the Maple Leaf. For the lowest cost per ounce outside an IRA, compare premiums the day you buy — all three are recognized by dealers worldwide. See what we pay today in our Buy Guide, or shop our Bullion department.
Frequently asked questions
Do all three coins contain the same amount of gold?
Yes. Each contains exactly one troy ounce of pure gold. The Eagle and Krugerrand weigh more because of their copper and silver alloy.
Can I put a Krugerrand in a gold IRA?
No. U.S. IRA rules accept the American Gold Eagle and the Canadian Maple Leaf, but not the Krugerrand.
Which coin is the most durable?
The 22-karat Eagle and Krugerrand resist scratches and dents better than the 24-karat Maple Leaf.
Where can I sell these coins?
Comercio Numismático buys all three. Check the Buy Guide for today's estimate, or send photos on WhatsApp for a quote.
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