First, use the right hallmarking rule
A common mistake is to apply jewellery hallmarking rules directly to coins. BIS states that the mandatory hallmarking order applies to gold jewellery and artefacts, not to bullion and coins. Gold bullion and coins of 999/995 fineness can be hallmarked by BIS-approved refineries or mints under a separate voluntary certification framework.
That distinction matters online because a coin should be checked as a bullion product, not by looking for a jewellery HUID that may not apply.
What BIS says a certified coin or bullion product can show
BIS's refinery/mint certification scheme lists information such as the BIS Standard Mark, fineness, manufacturer identification and weight. The underlying scheme also allows serial information to be linked to the manufacturer, with coin serial information potentially appearing on packaging.
For an online listing, make sure the product description, invoice and delivered item agree on the key facts.
| Check | What to look for |
|---|---|
| Seller | Clear legal seller / merchant identity and contact route |
| Product | Exact weight and stated fineness, e.g. 999 or 995 |
| Certification | Refinery/mint and applicable BIS marking information |
| Price | Metal value plus GST and any visible premium |
| Invoice | Tax invoice with product description and amount |
| Packaging | Tamper-evident or manufacturer packaging where offered |
| Delivery | Trackable delivery and clear dispute/return process |
| Future resale | Written buyback/exchange terms if the seller provides them |
Compare the premium, not only the discount badge
CBIC's GST rate schedule places gold and coin categories at a total GST rate of 3%. On top of the metal value, an online coin can include minting, packaging, brand and dealer premium. A coupon or card discount can reduce the final checkout amount, but the useful comparison is the all-in rupee cost per gram for the same fineness and weight.
Use a same-time gold reference when comparing sellers because gold can move while you browse.
Delivery-day checks
Keep a record of the order page, seller name and invoice. Inspect the outer package for damage before opening. If the platform provides an OTP or documented handover process, follow it. Many buyers also record the unboxing of high-value items as a practical evidence trail, although that does not replace product verification.
Do not cut, melt or alter the product immediately if you may need to raise a delivery or authenticity dispute. Compare the markings, weight description and manufacturer information with the invoice first.
If you still doubt authenticity
Use the manufacturer's or refinery's verification route where available and contact the seller promptly. BIS publishes information on licensed refineries/mints and on its bullion/coin certification framework. If the product details do not match the invoice or advertised specification, treat that as a serious issue before considering resale.
Avoid these shortcuts
- Do not assume the cheapest listing is genuine.
- Do not assume a marketplace name guarantees every third-party seller.
- Do not confuse a jewellery HUID with bullion/coin certification.
- Do not buy without an invoice merely to reduce the visible checkout price.
- Do not ignore the future buyback policy if resale matters to you.
FAQ
Does every gold coin need a six-digit HUID?
No. The HUID system is part of the jewellery hallmarking framework. BIS treats bullion/coin certification separately.
What fineness is common for investment coins?
999 and 995 are the fineness categories covered by the BIS refinery/mint bullion and coin certification scope.
Is buying gold online always cheaper than a store?
No. Compare the final rupee cost per gram after GST, premium and discounts, and also consider delivery and resale terms.
