Germany Jumps on Bullion Bandwagon

Germany has launched a national bullion coin equivalent to Canada’s Maple Leaf and Great Britain’s Britannia. Called the Bayern Thaler, the piece was developed by the Bavarian State Mint in Munich. Since German monetary regulations restrict the issuance of legal-tender coins outside the euro system, the new coin unconventionally revives the historic thaler as its fictional unit of value, making it enticing to both investors and collectors.

Adding further to its appeal, the design features Germany’s iconic Neuschwanstein Castle, and subsequent annual issues will depict other notable landmarks. Silver versions are available in 1 ounce and 1 kilogram, and gold versions range from ¹/₁₀ ounce to 1 kilogram. The pieces can be purchased through the Bavarian State Mint, BayernLB (Bavaria’s state bank), and Emporium (a numismatic distributor).

According to Numismatic News, “Whether the Bayern Thaler will establish itself as a global investment staple or remain a regional niche product remains to be seen. However, its combination of historical resonance, aesthetic appeal, and competitive pricing gives it a solid foundation. If successful, it could pave the way for further German entries into the bullion market, finally giving the country a prominent place in the world of investment coins.”

A version of this article appears in the May 2025 issue of The Numismatist (money.org).