By Bitsobull 
Coin vs. Medal – What’s the Difference?
When it comes to products made of precious metals like gold or silver, the difference between a coin and a medal is more than just a matter of appearance. It’s about their legal status, purpose, and actual value. It’s especially important for investors and collectors to know these differences.
In this article, we explain the most important features that distinguish a coin from a medal – using well-known examples such as the Libertad from Mexico or the Krugerrand from South Africa.
🪙 What is a coin?
A coin is an official means of payment issued by a government authority or an authorized institution. It is legal tender, even if it is rarely used in everyday life—especially in the case of bullion coins.
Typical characteristics of a coin:
- Legal tender in the issuing country
• Nominal value (stamped or legally determined)
• Authorized by the state or regulated by law
• Manufactured by a government mint
• Use: Circulation money, investment (bullion) or commemorative coinage
Examples:
The Krugerrand (South Africa) and the Libertad (Mexico) are both legal tender, although they have no imprinted face value.
🏅 What is a medal?
A medal is visually similar to a coin, but is not legal tender. It is primarily minted for commemorative, award, or artistic purposes.
Typical features of a medal:
- Not legal tender
• No face value
• Publisher can be state or private
• Use in honor, as a souvenir or for collectors
Examples:
Military medals, artistic commemorative pieces or collector coins without face value are considered medals.
🔍 Comparison table: Coin vs. Medal
| feature | coin | medal |
| Legal tender | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Nominal value | ✅ Yes (stamped or statutory) | ❌ Never |
| Payment function | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Purpose of use | Payment, investment, commemoration | Commemoration, award, art |
| editor | State or monetary authority | State, private or institutional |
| Examples | Krugerrand, Libertad, American Eagle | Military medal, commemorative coin |
*Tip: This table can be easily implemented in Elementor using a table widget or column layout.*
💡 Conclusion
Coins and medals may seem similar at first glance—especially when made of precious metals—but their legal and functional significance is fundamentally different. Collectors and investors should know exactly whether a coin or a medal is involved, as this affects recognition, tradability, and value retention.
If you’re unsure whether a piece is a coin or a medal, please contact us – we’ll be happy to help.