Historically, when governments have confiscated gold, such as under the US Executive Order 6102 in 1933, certain categories were exempted. Gold jewelry and ornamental pieces were not confiscated, since they were considered personal property rather than a monetary asset.
Rare and collectible coins, valued for their numismatic worth rather than bullion content, were also excluded. Small amounts of gold held by individuals, often up to a modest dollar limit, were permitted as well. Gold used in industry, dentistry, and the arts was likewise protected.
In short, gold that serves a personal, artistic, or collector purpose, rather than functioning as circulating currency or a bullion hoard, has generally been the type governments choose not to seize.