If you're in the UK and want Goldbacks, good luck. These stunning, fractional gold notes are almost impossible to find on this side of the Atlantic. And if you do manage to track some down, be prepared to pay a hefty premium. The UK simply isn’t a market for Goldbacks, making them more of a collector’s treasure than a practical means of exchange.
That leaves only one option; buying directly from the US and taking the risk of international shipping.
The risks of importing Goldbacks
Every time I order Goldbacks from the US, I know I’m rolling the dice. There are two major risks involved:
Loss or Damage in Transit – Precious metals shipments always carry some level of risk, but when dealing with something as thin and delicate as Goldbacks, there's even more concern. If they get lost, bent, or otherwise damaged along the way, there's little recourse. I accept that risk as part of the game.
HMRC and Import Duties – If His Majesty’s Revenue and Customs (HMRC) flags the package, I could get hit with import duties and taxes, making the entire purchase more expensive than simply buying from a UK-based dealer—if I could even find one with stock. So far, I’ve been lucky, with every shipment arriving safe and duty-free.
But the risk is always there, and every time I place an order, there's that moment of uncertainty while waiting for it to clear customs.
This most recent order was special—I picked up a few of the brand-new Florida Goldbacks. Seeing them online was one thing, but holding them in person is another. The intricate designs, the fine details, and the sheer beauty of the artwork make them a joy to collect.
Each state series has its own unique designs, with imagery deeply tied to local culture and history. Florida’s series captures that spirit perfectly, featuring stunning representations of freedom, nature, and faith. If Goldbacks weren’t already a niche collectible, these would make an incredible gateway for new collectors.
I think this is it. I've had my fix of these beautifully crafted works of art, and while they’re great collectibles, my focus has always been stacking gold in a more practical form. So, moving forward, I’ll be shifting my attention back to gold coins, sovereigns, quarter-ounce eagles, or whatever I can stack at the best price.
Goldbacks are a fantastic novelty, but when it comes to long-term stacking, weight is king. That said, I have no regrets. I’ve got a nice little collection now, and every time I look at them, I’ll be reminded of the risks I took to bring them home.
For those in the UK looking to get their hands on Goldbacks, the challenge is real, but if you're willing to take the risk, they’re absolutely worth it.