Gold bars are one of the most cost effective ways of minting gold. It’s not unusual for gold bars to cost less than gold bullion coins that contain the same amount of gold. The main reason why gold bars a usually less expensive than gold coins, is the fact that gold bars are less expensive to manufacture. Another reason why gold bars are usually less expensive is the lack of numismatic value associated with gold bars. Gold coins are usually struck with a date on them. The older a coin is, the more it will usually be worth. With gold bars the price is usually uniformed no matter when it was manufactured.

There are two main methods used to manufacture gold bars. The first method of manufacturing gold bars produces gold bars known as Minted bars. Minted bars are made by cutting rectangular blanks out of sheets of gold. After these rectangular gold blanks are cut the weight is then checked. Depending on the mint’s procedures, the blanks weight can be checked manually or through an automated process. In the last process the blanks are struck with the name of the mint, the size and its purity.

The next method of manufacturing gold bars produces gold bars known as Cast bars or Ingots. Ingots are made by pouring molten gold into molds. The molten gold is then allowed to slowly cool. After the ingots are solidified they are then usually immersed in water to bring them to room temperature. Next the weight of the ingots are then checked, and like minted bars the ingots are struck with the name of the mint, the size and its purity. Gold bars are not only one of the most cost effective ways to invest in physical gold; it is also one of the most cost effective ways of minting gold.