NGC Precious Metal & Bullion Standards 2

Question 1

What is the millesimal fineness of standard 14-karat gold?

Accepted Answer

583

Answer

14-karat gold has a millesimal fineness of 583 (actually 583.3), meaning it contains 58.3% pure gold.

Question 2

Which hallmark system uses the lion passant symbol to certify sterling silver in the United Kingdom?

Accepted Answer

British hallmarking system

Answer

The British hallmarking system uses the lion passant to certify that silver meets the sterling standard of 92.5% purity.

Question 3

A silver bullion coin with a fineness of .999 contains what percentage of silver by weight?

Accepted Answer

99.9%

Answer

A fineness of .999 means the coin is 99.9% pure silver, with 0.1% being trace alloy metals.

Question 4

The American Gold Eagle bullion coin is struck in what alloy composition?

Accepted Answer

22-karat gold with silver and copper

Answer

American Gold Eagles are struck in 22-karat (91.67%) gold alloyed with silver and copper for added durability.

Question 5

What term describes the process of assaying metal by rubbing it on a black stone and comparing the streak to known standards?

Accepted Answer

Touchstone assay

Answer

Touchstone assay involves rubbing metal on a dark basanite stone and comparing the resulting streak color to standard needles of known composition.

(NGC) Numismatic Guaranty Corporation Certified Professional Practice Test