Buying and Storing Gold in Switzerland: Frequently Asked Questions

Buying and storing gold in Switzerland should be straightforward. Here we answer common questions about physical gold and silver, choosing coins or bars, ownership, storage and transport. Aurum Helvetica guides you through each step so you can make an informed decision.

Buying and storing gold in Switzerland: your questions answered

What can I buy through Aurum Helvetica?

You can buy investment-grade physical gold and silver coins and bars from established mints and refiners through Aurum Helvetica. Tell us what you have in mind and your budget, and we’ll help you choose suitable products, confirm availability and pricing, and arrange delivery or storage. Explore our gold and silver products.

Should I choose coins or bars?

Both can be a good choice. Recognised coins offer flexibility if you want to sell smaller portions of your holdings, while larger bars often have lower premiums per ounce. We’ll help you compare the total purchase price, storage needs and resale options so you can choose what suits your plans. Read our guide to gold coins versus gold bars.

Why is the price different from the spot price?

The purchase price includes the metal’s market value plus a premium for producing and supplying the coin or bar. Premiums vary with product size, availability and demand. We’ll confirm your total price before you place an order, so you know exactly what you’re paying.

Does gold replace cash?

Gold and cash serve different purposes. Cash is useful for everyday spending and short-term needs; physical gold can form part of a long-term reserve. Gold prices fluctuate, gold pays no interest, and you need to sell it to turn it into spendable cash. We can explain the practical differences so you can make an informed decision. Explore our Insight on gold versus cash.

Can you store coins or bars I already own?

Yes. We accept client-owned gold and silver coins and bars for storage. Send us a list of your holdings and their current location, and we’ll guide you through the documentation, any acceptance checks, transport and storage arrangements. We’ll explain the requirements and confirm any costs before proceeding.

What do allocated and segregated mean?

Allocated storage means specific metal is attributed to you rather than an undivided interest in a pool. Segregated storage means your holdings are kept physically separate under the agreed storage arrangement. We’ll explain how your chosen arrangement works and how your holdings are recorded in the storage documentation.

Who owns metal held in storage?

You retain ownership of your stored metal under the storage agreement. Aurum Helvetica arranges the storage service without acquiring ownership of your holdings. We’ll provide the documentation identifying your holdings and explaining the custody arrangement.

Where can my metals be stored?

We offer storage arrangements in Switzerland and selected international locations, including Singapore and the Cayman Islands. Tell us your preferred location, and we’ll explain the available arrangement, confirm the relevant terms and help you organise the next steps before any metal is moved. Explore our storage services.

Is stored metal insured?

Yes. We arrange insured storage under the applicable custody arrangement. Before you proceed, we’ll explain the coverage, valuation basis, relevant exclusions and claims process, and provide the documentation that applies to your holdings.

How will I know what is in storage?

You receive records of your holdings and account activity under your storage arrangement. We’ll explain the statements provided and the inventory and audit documentation available for your account, so you can keep track of your metal.

What does storage cost? Is there a minimum fee?

We’ll provide the storage fee schedule and explain the billing basis, minimum charge and any one-time service costs before you open your account. Your storage agreement sets out the applicable fees, and we’ll walk you through them so you can assess the full cost.

Can you arrange transport from another country?

Yes. We can arrange secure, insured international transport through our logistics partners for eligible shipments. Tell us what you would like to move and the collection and destination locations. We’ll confirm the route, required documents, customs arrangements, insurance and costs with you before proceeding.

Do you test client-owned metal?

Yes. Authenticity testing can be arranged for your coins or bars. We’ll explain the available testing method, what it can establish and the costs before you decide. Any checks required for vault acceptance will also be explained as part of the storage process.

Can I move my holding to another jurisdiction later?

Yes. We can help you explore moving your holdings to another available storage location. We’ll confirm acceptance at the destination and coordinate the transport, insurance, customs documentation, costs and storage terms for your approval before arranging the move.

Can I withdraw or take delivery?

Yes. You can request withdrawal or delivery of your holdings under your storage agreement. Contact us with your preferred destination and timing, and we’ll guide you through identity verification, the required notice and the available collection or delivery arrangements, including any costs.

Can I sell my metal through Aurum Helvetica?

Yes. You can request a buyback quotation for eligible gold and silver holdings. Send us the product details, quantity and current location, and we’ll confirm the relevant checks, price and sale process. You decide whether to proceed with the quotation.

What is involved in opening an account?

We’ll guide you through opening your account. Start by contacting us about the products or storage services you need. We’ll provide the application and required identity and compliance documentation, explain the submission process, and confirm the next steps and expected timing once your documents are complete. Read our practical guide to buying gold in Switzerland.

How should I submit identification documents?

Contact us first and we’ll provide the approved method for submitting your identity documents. We’ll explain what is needed and guide you through the process. Please keep passports, bank details and other sensitive documents out of the general website contact form.

Still have a question? Contact info@aurumhelvetica.com.