Collection: Goldbacks

About this range

Buying Goldbacks from The Yard Mint

Goldbacks are 24k gold foil notes, laminated for durability and issued in fractional denominations. Each series carries the artwork of the state it represents, but the gold content is identical wherever it's issued — what differs is design and mintage.

They were created to be spendable — accepted as a voluntary local currency by participating businesses in their home state — as well as held as a physical, fractional way to own gold. We stock all twelve state series, including the original Utah series where Goldbacks began.

New to Goldbacks? Start with a single denomination from any state to see the format for yourself, or browse by state above. Every note we sell is genuine, sealed, and dispatched fully insured.

Goldbacks — common questions

What exactly is a Goldback?

A Goldback is a physical note made from a thin layer of 24k gold, laminated between polymer for protection. It carries a stated denomination representing its gold content, alongside artwork specific to its state series.

Are Goldbacks treated like investment gold for VAT?

Goldbacks are treated as a collectible product rather than HMRC investment gold, so they don't carry the same VAT exemption as bullion bars and coins. Any VAT due is already reflected in the price shown.

Can I actually spend a Goldback?

Yes, in principle — participating businesses in the issuing state accept them as a voluntary local currency at an agreed gold-value rate. In practice, most of our customers buy them to hold rather than spend.

Which state series should I choose?

There's no wrong answer — the gold content and purity are identical across series. Utah is the original; other states are usually chosen for their artwork or a personal connection. Some collectors aim to complete a full state set.

Do you buy Goldbacks back?

Yes — we operate a buyback programme on most items we sell. Get in touch for a current quote.