22ct gold is one of the purest forms of gold commonly found in the UK — used in investment coins like Sovereigns and Krugerrands, as well as traditional Asian and Middle Eastern jewellery. At 91.67% pure gold, it commands a premium price and is highly sought after by buyers.
This guide explains exactly how 22ct gold is valued, how to calculate what yours is worth, and how to get the best price when you sell. For an instant figure, use our free gold calculator.
22ct gold contains 91.67% pure gold — the remaining 8.33% is typically copper or silver, which adds durability. It's hallmarked with the number 916 and is the standard used for many of the world's most popular gold coins.
Common items made from 22ct gold include:
To understand more about gold purity and hallmarks, see our gold purity guide and British hallmark guide.
The value of 22ct gold is based on three things: weight, purity, and the live gold spot price.
Formula: Weight (troy oz) × 0.9167 × Spot price (£/troy oz)
Here are some worked examples based on a spot price of £2,500 per troy oz:
Note: investment coins like Sovereigns and Krugerrands typically sell for above their melt value due to collector and investor demand. Use our gold calculator for an up-to-date estimate, and check our live gold price page for the current spot price.
The value of 22ct gold per gram fluctuates with the gold spot price. As a rough guide:
These are the melt values — the theoretical maximum based on pure gold content. For investment coins, the actual market price is often higher. At 888 Bullion, we offer highly competitive rates for all 22ct gold.
If you have gold Sovereigns or Krugerrands, they are almost certainly worth more than their melt value. These coins carry a premium due to their recognisability, liquidity, and investor demand.
UK Sovereigns and Britannias also benefit from being CGT-free for UK investors — meaning any profit you make selling them is exempt from Capital Gains Tax. Read more in our CGT-free gold coins guide.
Before selling any 22ct coins as scrap, always get a proper bullion valuation first. Our team at Hatton Garden can advise you on the best way to sell.
See also: Britannia vs Sovereign — which is best for UK investors?
The offer you receive will be a percentage of the melt value for jewellery, or close to (or above) spot for investment coins. This varies depending on:
If you're unsure whether your piece is 22ct, we offer XRF metal testing in London — instant, non-destructive purity verification.
Approximate melt values at £2,500/oz spot:
Use our gold calculator with your exact weight for a precise figure.
Look for a hallmark stamped on the piece — 22ct gold is marked with 916. Our hallmark guide explains all UK gold marks. You can also use our XRF testing service for instant verification.
Yes — almost always. Sovereigns carry a premium above melt value due to their iconic status, liquidity, and CGT-exempt status for UK investors. Always get a bullion valuation before selling as scrap.
22ct contains more pure gold (91.67% vs 75%), so per gram it's worth more. However, the type of item matters too — 22ct coins often attract premiums that 18ct jewellery doesn't.
In-person sales at our Hatton Garden office are paid the same day. Postal sales are paid within 24 hours of receipt and verification.
UK legal tender gold coins (Sovereigns, Britannias) are exempt from Capital Gains Tax. Other 22ct gold may be subject to CGT. See our CGT-free gold guide for full details.
Ready to find out what your 22ct gold is worth? Use our free gold calculator for an instant estimate, or get a quote to sell your gold today.
Also see: How Much Is My Gold Worth? | How Much Is My 9ct Gold Worth? | How Much Is My 18ct Gold Worth? | Scrap Gold Calculator | 22ct Gold Guide 2026
