The focus of many investors is often immediately directed towards gold as a valuable metal investment, and an equal number express interest in silver as a component of a diversified investment portfolio. It’s natural for investors to gravitate towards these metals due to the plethora of coins, bars, and rounds available. However, there are other precious metals that also boast impressive purity and value. Palladium, often overlooked as an investment, is gradually gaining popularity. A closer look reveals a growing number of palladium coins and bars in the market.
Two of the most popular palladium bullion coins represent esteemed coin programs globally, backed by respected sovereign mints and powerful central banks/governments. These two palladium coins are:
Palladium coins lack the extensive history of gold, silver, or even platinum bullion coins. Sierra Leone issued the first palladium coin in 1966, followed by Tonga in 1967. Since then, countries such as Canada, the Soviet Union, France, Portugal, China, Australia, and Slovakia have issued palladium coins, mostly as special commemoratives rather than palladium bullion coins. In fact, the first major palladium bullion coin programs came in the form of the Australian Palladium Platypus and the Soviet/Russian Palladium Ballerina.
Investors also have the option to acquire palladium bullion bars. Well-known programs like the PAMP Suisse Fortuna offer palladium bars, and various other palladium bars are available for purchase online. Examples of popular palladium bullion bars include the following:
Though far less common than silver rounds, palladium rounds have been issued in the past. One standout example came from Johnson Matthey and featured the images of Lewis and Clark. While the designs honored the anniversary of Lewis & Clark’s expedition to map the Louisiana Territory in the early 19th century, the release of these rounds also featured American-sourced palladium from the Stillwater Complex.
Palladium, a rare and lustrous metal with a silvery-white appearance, belongs to the platinum group metals alongside platinum, rhodium, ruthenium, iridium, and osmium. Discovered in 1803 by William Hyde Wollaston, palladium’s most extensive deposits are found in various locations worldwide. Over half of the global palladium supply is used in catalytic converters in automobiles, converting over 90% of harmful gases from combustion engines into less noxious substances. Other common uses include dentistry tools, electronics, groundwater treatment systems, and jewelry.
If you’re seeking increased diversity in your precious metals portfolio, palladium is a great option. Please feel free to reach out to Provident Metals with any questions about palladium bullion. You can call us at 800-313-3315, online using our web chat, and via our email address.