spot price
Spot price is the live market reference price for immediate precious-metal trading, commonly quoted per troy ounce.
Why it matters
UK retail gold and silver quotes use spot as a benchmark, then add product-specific costs such as minting, refining, dealer margin, availability, payment fees, delivery, insurance, and the buy/sell spread. Silver comparisons also need VAT treatment checked because the tax can materially change the checkout price.
What to check
Spot is not a guaranteed retail buy or sell price. Check currency, troy-ounce weight, quote expiry, premium, VAT, delivery, and likely buyback terms before comparing products.