HS Code 71.18 – Coin

HS code 7118 is a 4-digit heading in the Harmonized System that covers: Coin. Heading 7118 specifically covers 'Coin,' encompassing legal tender coins of all metals, whether currently in circulation or having been legal tender at some point. This broad classification includes not only everyday currency but also commemorative coins, numismatic coins (collector's items), and even coin blanks (metal discs ready for striking). The key characteristic for inclusion in this heading is that the item must be, or have been, recognized as legal tender by a government authority, or be a blank specifically for such a purpose. This distinction is crucial, as it separates actual currency from mere pieces of metal, even if they contain precious metals. The scope of 7118 is very precise, preventing the misclassification of precious metal coins as unwrought precious metals (7108, 7110) or as articles of goldsmiths' wares (7114). For trade compliance, proper classification is essential because legal tender coins often have zero or preferential duty rates, but may be subject to specific regulations regarding currency import/export, anti-money laundering, or cultural heritage protection for ancient coins. Historically, coins have been central to trade, finance, and national identity, and their classification reflects their unique status. This heading provides a clear, unambiguous home within Chapter 71 for items that embody both material value and sovereign authority.

US Quarters (circulating), Euro coins, Japanese Yen coins, Gold sovereign coins, Silver Krugerrands, Canadian Maple Leaf gold coins, American Eagle silver coins, Mexican Libertad silver coins, Chinese Panda gold coins, Commemorative silver dollars, Ancient Roman coins (once legal tender), Uncirculated coin sets, Proof coins (collector's), Copper coin blanks, Nickel coin blanks, Bi-metallic currency coins, Platinum commemorative coins, Palladium bullion coins, Fractional gold coins, Rare historical coins, World coin sets, Coin sets for investment, Commemorative base metal coins, Coin blanks for specific denominations, Mint-issued collector coins

A common mistake is classifying precious metal coins purely as bullion under 7108 (Gold, unwrought) or 7110 (Platinum metals, unwrought). While they contain precious metal, their form as 'coin' (legal tender or having been legal tender) is the defining characteristic for 7118, which typically carries different duty implications. Another error is classifying a coin that has been set into a bezel or another article (e.g., a coin pendant) under 7118; in such cases, the *article* is jewelry (7113), and the coin is merely a component. Lastly, souvenir tokens or medallions that have never been legal tender are often mistakenly placed here instead of other headings like 8306 (Bells, gongs, etc.) or 7117 (Imitation jewellery) if decorative.

In 2025, the top exporters of HS code 7118 in UN Comtrade data were the United States ($221M, 27% of world exports), Germany ($211M) and Poland ($88M). World exports came to about $805M, adding countries' reported figures and partner-based estimates for those that did not report (UN Comtrade data). Countries that did not report 2025 data are estimated from partner records, which can understate them.

In 2025, the top importers of HS code 7118 in UN Comtrade data were Germany ($140M, 21% of world imports), the United Arab Emirates (about $68M) and the United States ($63M). World imports came to about $674M, adding countries' reported figures and partner-based estimates for those that did not report (UN Comtrade data). Countries that did not report 2025 data are estimated from partner records, which can understate them.

HS code 7118 is a 4-digit heading under Chapter 71 of the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (71) identify the chapter, and digits 3-4 (18) specify the heading. This code contains multiple 6-digit subheadings for precise product classification.