The Gerami Gold Coin: Iran’s Smallest Treasure πͺ
At the base of Iran’s gold investment pyramid sits the Gerami coin. As the smallest official gold coin available, it plays a massive role in the nation’s gift-giving culture and provides the first rung on the ladder of financial security for millions.
What is the Gerami Coin?
The “One Gerami” (meaning “one gram”) coin is the smallest denomination in the official Azadi gold coin series, minted by the Central Bank of Iran (CBI).
Here are its key details:
- Weight: 1.01 grams
- Purity: 90% gold (21.6 karats)
- Packaging: Unlike the larger Azadi coins which often come in round capsules, the Gerami coin is almost always sold sealed in a rectangular, credit-card-sized security pack from the bank.
Its creation was a direct response to the public’s need for an even more affordable way to own government-guaranteed gold.
The Perfect Small Gift and Savings Tool π±
The Gerami coin’s primary purpose is accessibility. It thrives in two main areas:
- Affordable Gifting: It is the ultimate gift for countless occasions. When a Quarter Azadi coin is too expensive, the Gerami is the perfect way to give the precious and prestigious gift of gold for birthdays, holidays, or as a reward, without a large budget.
- Micro-Savings: For people on tight budgets, the Gerami is the only practical way to convert small amounts of the Iranian Rial (IRR) into a stable asset. It allows for the incremental protection of savings against rampant inflation.
Pricing: The Highest Premium of All
Like all Azadi coins, the Gerami’s price is based on the international gold price, the free-market USD/IRR exchange rate, and a local demand “bubble.”
However, the Gerami is known for having the highest premium per gram of any coin in the Azadi series. This is because its production cost is high relative to its tiny gold content, and the retail and gift-giving demand for it is enormous.
This means it’s not the most cost-effective way to stack weight if you’re a serious investor. However, its value lies in its unparalleled liquidity and cultural significance, not its efficiency as a bulk investment.
Conclusion: A Tiny Coin with a Big Role
The Gerami gold coin is a testament to the deep-rooted importance of gold in Iranian culture. It ensures that everyone, regardless of their income level, has an opportunity to own a piece of this safe-haven asset. As of 2025, this tiny one-gram coin continues to play a huge social and economic role, acting as a small but powerful shield against financial uncertainty.