How Big Is a 1/10 Ounce Gold Coin?
Discover the actual size and physical dimensions of a 1/10 ounce gold coin. Understand its true scale and physical characteristics.
For those new to precious metals, understanding the physical size of a 1/10 ounce gold coin is a common inquiry. These fractional gold pieces represent an accessible entry point into gold ownership, often sparking curiosity about their tangible dimensions. While the weight of the gold content is standardized, the overall appearance and feel of these small, valuable coins can vary, leading many to wonder exactly how large they are in hand.
Physical Dimensions of a 1/10 Ounce Gold Coin
The precise measurements of a 1/10 ounce gold coin can differ slightly depending on the mint and its specific design, though the underlying gold weight remains consistent. For example, the 1/10 ounce American Gold Eagle typically measures around 16.5 millimeters (mm) in diameter and approximately 1.19 mm in thickness. Similarly, the 1/10 ounce Canadian Gold Maple Leaf has a diameter of about 16 mm and a thickness of approximately 1.22 mm.
Other popular fractional gold coins also exhibit comparable dimensions. The 1/10 ounce South African Krugerrand, for instance, generally features a diameter of 16.55 mm and a thickness of 1.35 mm. The Austrian Philharmonic in its 1/10 ounce denomination is typically 16 mm in diameter and about 1.2 mm thick.
Visualizing the Coin’s Size
To help visualize the dimensions of a 1/10 ounce gold coin, it is useful to compare it with familiar objects. Such a coin is considerably smaller than a U.S. dime, which has a diameter of 17.91 mm. The coin’s small diameter means it can easily fit within the tip of an average adult’s thumb and forefinger.
The thinness of a 1/10 ounce gold coin is also a notable characteristic. Its slim profile, often just over a millimeter thick, makes it feel delicate yet substantial due to its metallic composition. When held in the palm of a hand, these coins appear quite diminutive, often resting comfortably on a single fingertip. This compact size contributes to their portability and ease of storage.
Material Composition and Weight
The designation “1/10 ounce gold coin” refers to the precise amount of pure gold contained within the coin. Not all gold coins are made of 100% pure gold; some are alloyed with other metals to enhance durability. For example, the 1/10 ounce American Gold Eagle and the South African Krugerrand are minted in 22-karat gold, meaning they contain 91.67% pure gold, with the remaining percentage typically composed of silver and copper. This alloy makes these coins more resistant to scratches and wear compared to purer forms of gold.
In contrast, coins like the 1/10 ounce Canadian Gold Maple Leaf and the Austrian Philharmonic are struck from 24-karat gold, signifying 99.99% pure gold content. While these coins offer the highest purity, their softness makes them more susceptible to minor damage from handling. Regardless of the karat, the inherent density of gold means that even a small 1/10 troy ounce coin carries significant value within its compact form.