Germany's Federal Ministry of Finance has published the official list of gold coins that qualify for VAT exemption in 2026 under the EU's investment gold provisions. The list, released November 27, 2025, implements criteria set out in Articles 344 and 345 of the EU VAT Directive.

The European Commission published the qualifying gold coins list on November 14, 2025, in the Official Journal of the European Union. Germany's BMF circular supplements this EU publication by making the list available to German tax practitioners and businesses dealing in precious metals.

Under EU VAT rules, investment gold—including certain gold coins that meet specific purity and market acceptance criteria—is exempt from VAT across member states. The annual list ensures consistent application of these exemptions by identifying which coins qualify as investment gold rather than collectibles or numismatic items, which remain subject to standard VAT rates.