24K Yellow Gold PAMP Suisse Lady Fortuna 1oz Gold Bar
Bar/Ingot (Bullion) · Yellow Gold (Fine gold without significant alloying metals, characterized by its naturally deep, rich golden hue).
Purity: 24K / 999.9 Fine Gold (99.99% pure gold content). This is investment-grade bullion of the highest commercial purity.
Type
Bar/Ingot (Bullion)
Purity
24K / 999.9 Fine Gold (99.99% pure gold content). This is investment-grade bullion of the highest commercial purity.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold (Fine gold without significant alloying metals, characterized by its naturally deep, rich golden hue).
Weight
1 Troy Ounce (31.1 grams). This is the most popular standard weight for international gold trading and investment.
Description
The PAMP Lady Fortuna is the world's most recognized gold bar design. It depicts the Roman goddess of fortune with her mythical attributes: sheaves of wheat, poppies, a horn of plenty, and gold coins flowing from her hands. The bar represents the pinnacle of Swiss refining excellence and is a staple for precious metal investors worldwide.
Key Features
The 'Lady Fortuna' motif, the 'Assayeur Fondeur' (Assayer-Melt) stamp on the reverse, and the highly reflective proof-like finish on a minted bar.
Color & Finish
The bar features a frosted matte relief of Lady Fortuna on a high-polish, mirror-like (proof-like) background. The gold exhibits a deep, saturated yellow characteristic of .9999 fineness.
Hallmarks & Stamps
The reverse (not fully visible) typically features the PAMP Logo, '1 ounce', 'GOLD 999.9', 'ESSAYEUR FONDEUR' mark, and a unique 6 or 7-digit serial number.
Dimensions Estimate
Approximately 41mm x 24mm x 1.71mm. A standard 1oz bar profile that fits precisely within a credit-card-sized assay certicard.
Gemstones & Inlays
None. This is a solid bullion investment piece focused on metal purity.
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable for a gold bar, though it may be mounted in a bezel for wear as a pendant.
Chain & Links
Not applicable; however, the bar has a smooth, raised edge ('rim') to protect the design on the face.
Craftsmanship Details
Minted bar construction (struck from a strip of gold rather than cast). The detail in the wheat stalks and coin flow demonstrates high-pressure die striking and superior polishing techniques.
Authentication Indicators
Characteristic deep 24K color, precise frosted-to-mirror transitions, sharp relief details on the cornucopia, and standardized dimensions. Red flag: Genuine bars are rarely sold loose; removing from assay packaging usually reduces liquidity.
Origin & Maker
Switzerland; produced by PAMP Suisse (Produits Artistiques Métaux Précieux), one of the world's most prestigious private mints.
Era & Period
Contemporary (Post-1979). The Lady Fortuna design was the first decorative motif to ever be used on gold bullion bars.
Age Estimate
Likely manufactured within the last 10-20 years based on the crispness of the die and popularity of the current design iteration.
Cultural Significance
Symbolizes prosperity and wealth. It is often given as a high-value gift for weddings, milestone birthdays, and religious festivals in various cultures to ensure good fortune.
Condition Notes
Excellent (uncirculated). The surface shows high luster with no significant scratches or dings. Note: Handling pure 24K gold with bare hands can leave oils; these bars are typically kept in assay plastic.
Value Estimate
Primarily determined by the current spot price of 1oz of gold, plus a 'premium' of 3-7% for the PAMP brand name and minting quality.
Care & Maintenance
Avoid direct skin contact to prevent oil buildup; handle by the edges or with cotton gloves. Store in a cool, dry place inside a protective sleeve or the original assay card. Do not use abrasives.
Similar Items
Valcambi Gold Bar (simple logo), Perth Mint Kangaroo Bar (frosted kangaroo motif), Royal Canadian Mint Bar (maple leaf motif), or the American Gold Buffalo coin.
Interesting Facts
PAMP was the first refinery to introduce decorative designs on small bars in 1979, turning investment bullion into a form of art. 'Fortuna' was the daughter of Jupiter and was often depicted blindfolded to represent the randomness of luck.