Royal Mint introduces Diwali-inspired Henna Britannia gold bullion bars in affordable sizes

Not our usual fare, but worth a quick look by association, the Royal Mint have launched what they call ‘Henna Britannia’ bullion bars. Using a close-in view of the iconic figure, visualised many years ago by Philip Nathan, With the price of gold heading upwards, at long last, the choice of 1 gram and 5 gram sizes is an excellent one, in our view. The one troy ounce format, both in coins and bars, is very well catered for, so having some aesthetically attractive smaller bars is a step in the right direction.

These are certainly good looking, with the ‘henna’ pattern in the background. The link to Diwali seems a bit tenuous to us, especially in light of the similar ‘wave’ background on the bullion coin, but the thought is a good one and the end result worthy of purchase.

It’s a Royal Mint product, so watch the premiums, but if they aren’t too onerous, we reckon these are a top buy. Sensibly packaged, numbered, affordable formats and with a mint/national icon on them, what’s not to like? Available now.

PRESS RELEASE

Today the Royal Mint unveiled their first henna-inspired collection. Consisting of a 1g gold bullion bar and a 5g gold bullion bar, wrapped in beautiful henna-inspired packaging. The Royal Mint is a world recognised authority in gold, having worked in gold for centuries. The new collection brings this wealth of experience and artistry to each bar of 999.9 fine gold, which also marks the first time The Royal Mint’s iconic Britannia design will be featured on 1g and 5g gold bullion bars.

The henna-inspired collection of gold bars come adorned with The Royal Mint’s Britannia, designed by Philip Nathan. Since her first appearance on English coins in the seventeenth-century, Britannia has grown to become a powerful emblem, personifying the spirit and diversity of Great Britain. The sought after design also provides an extra layer of security for the bullion bars.

Gifting gold has long been a tradition associated with the festival of lights. The five-day festival begins with Dhanteras and gold plays a key part of this story. According to mythology King Hima’s son was saved from death by snake bite thanks to a distracting pile of gold outside the family’s door. Since then it has been seen as a symbol of good luck to gift gold on Dhanteras.

Karina Hicks, Head of Marketing for Precious Metals at The Royal Mint said: “We’re delighted to be releasing our first ever henna-inspired collection in time for Diwali. Gifting gold is a central part of the festival and we’re proud to bring our years of experience and minting excellence , to this time honoured tradition.

“As well as it’s symbolic value as a gift, gold bullion has been chosen as an investment by individuals, governments and organisations for thousands of years. In more recent years’ gold bullion has been seen as a safe hedge against a volatile market, making gold bullion bars the perfect gift for those wanting to invest in their future.”