25g 24K Yellow Gold Bar - HM Suisse (Habib & Mohammad)
Gold Bar / Ingot · Yellow Gold in its purest natural elemental form; high-density soft metal with a rich, saturating glow.
Purity: 24K (999.9 Fine Gold), representing 99.99% pure gold content with virtually no alloys present.
Type
Gold Bar / Ingot
Purity
24K (999.9 Fine Gold), representing 99.99% pure gold content with virtually no alloys present.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold in its purest natural elemental form; high-density soft metal with a rich, saturating glow.
Weight
25 grams (0.80377 troy ounces). This is a standard mid-range bullion weight favored for liquidity and portability.
Description
A classic example of an investment-grade 25-gram gold bar. This minted ingot features a high-relief strike and a raised protective border. The obverse is characterized by the 'HM' monogram, indicating its Swiss-regulated origin, and includes Arabic inscriptions typically targeted at the Gulf investment markets. It represents a physical asset that balances significant value with compact size.
Key Features
Distinctive 'HM' circular logos, 999.9 fineness guarantee, and the rare 25g weight denomination which is less common than the 20g or 1oz (31.1g) standard sizes.
Color & Finish
Deep buttery yellow characteristic of 999.9 purity. The finish is a minted semi-gloss with noticeable surface contact marks and handling scratches that create a duller patina over time.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Top: 'HM SUISSE' logo within a rounded rectangle. Middle: '25 g', 'FINE GOLD', '999.9'. Bottom: HM circular logo next to a rectangular serial box containing 'S.A 199' and Arabic script/stylized calligraphy.
Dimensions Estimate
Approximately 40mm length, 23mm width, and 1.6mm thickness (Standard for 25g minted bars).
Gemstones & Inlays
None; this is a pure bullion investment piece.
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable; rectangular solid ingot with rounded corners.
Chain & Links
Not applicable; however, the perimeter features a raised minted rim used to protect the design elements during stacking.
Craftsmanship Details
Minted/Stamped construction. The precision of the lettering and the uniform thickness indicate high-pressure machinery. The die strike is relatively sharp, though softened by handling wear.
Authentication Indicators
The depth of the minted stamps is consistent with hydraulic press production. The specific color hue is correct for 24K gold. Note: The absence of a tamper-evident assay card means XRF scanning or specific gravity testing is necessary to confirm internal density.
Origin & Maker
Switzerland (attributed via the 'Suisse' markings). The specific refiner 'HM' refers to Habib & Mohammad, a notable name in Middle Eastern gold trading often using Swiss-certified refining standards.
Era & Period
Contemporary (Late 20th Century to 2000s). The design reflect modern minted bullion standards produced for Middle Eastern and European markets.
Age Estimate
Likely produced between 1990 and 2010 based on the stamping style and serial number format 'S.A 199'.
Cultural Significance
Represents the historical trust in Swiss refining and the cultural preference in the Middle East and South Asia for keeping wealth in high-purity physical gold rather than paper assets.
Condition Notes
Good to Very Good (Circulated). The bar shows significant surface bag marks, micro-scratches, and dulling of the original luster, consistent with being stored outside of a protective assay card. No structural damage or shaving.
Value Estimate
Primarily valued for its 'melt' gold content. Current market price would be (Gold Spot Price per gram x 25) plus a small premium of 2-5% for the minted form and brand.
Care & Maintenance
Pure gold is extremely soft and easily scratched by even a fingernail. Handle with lint-free gloves. Store in a PVC-free plastic capsule or soft pouch to prevent further surface wear and loss of luster.
Similar Items
25g PAMP Suisse Lady Fortuna Bar (higher aesthetic premium), 1oz Valcambi Gold Bar (standard weight alternative), 20g Argor-Heraeus Bar.
Interesting Facts
Gold bars are often minted in grams rather than ounces for the international market, allowing for easier decimal calculations of value. HM Suisse bars are particularly recognizable in the Dubai and Swiss gold souks.