NBU investment coins: gold and silver for capital preservation

What are NBU investment coins?

Investment coins are coins that are minted mainly from precious metals (gold, silver) and are intended primarily for preservation of value, not for collection. Their price is mainly determined by the metal content, although some of them also acquire collector value.

The NBU has been minting investment coins since 2011. They differ from commemorative coins in their simplified design, higher metal purity, and standardized weight. They are sold through banks and official dealers of the NBU.

For a buyer in Ukraine, NBU investment coins are a legal and convenient way to buy gold or silver "from the hands of the state" without unnecessary bureaucratic complications.

Popular series of NBU investment coins

"Archangel Michael" (gold)

The flagship of NBU investment coins is a gold coin depicting Archangel Michael, the patron saint of Kyiv. It is minted in several weight options: 1/4 ounce, 1/2 ounce, and 1 ounce (31.1 g) of 999.9 fine gold. The coin has the status of legal tender in Ukraine (denomination 100, 200 or 500 hryvnias depending on weight), but its real value is determined by the price of gold on the market.

The advantage of "Archistratyg": it is well-known, liquid (easy to sell), and banks are willing to buy it back. This makes it the most "convenient" gold for a novice investor.

"Owl" (silver)

A silver investment coin of the National Bank of Ukraine weighing 1 ounce of silver of 999.9 fineness. The image of an owl - a symbol of wisdom. The price is tied to the price of silver on the international market with a premium. An ideal entry option for those who want to start investing in precious metals without large initial costs.

"Bull" and "Horse" (gold)

A series of coins with images of domestic animals - 999.9 fine gold. Less well-known than "Archistratig", but also official investment coins of the NBU.

Is it profitable to invest in NBU coins: an honest analysis

Advantages

• Legality and reliability. When buying an NBU coin through a bank, you have a guarantee of authenticity and an official document.
• Link to the price of the metal. The value of the coin increases along with the price of gold or silver on the world market.
• Liquidity. NBU dealer banks are obliged or can buy the coins back.
• VAT-free. The purchase of investment coins in Ukraine is not subject to VAT on gold.

Limitations

• Spread between purchase and sale. The bank sells the coin more expensively than it buys back. The difference can be 5–15%. You need to “turn a profit” before realizing the profit.
• Dependence on the metal rate. If the price of gold falls, the value of the coin also falls.
• Not a collectible asset. Investment coins have a mass circulation and, as a rule, do not acquire additional numismatic value.

Conclusion

NBU investment coins are a convenient and reliable way to save part of your capital in precious metal. This is not a speculative instrument, but a protective asset for the long term. If your goal is to make money quickly, this is not the best choice. If the goal is to protect hryvnia savings from inflation and devaluation, the gold "Archistratig" does its job.