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Significant Accounting Policies (Schedule Of Unrealized Gains Or Losses On The Trust's Bullion Holdings) (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Dec. 31, 2014
Jan. 01, 2014
Dec. 31, 2013
Dec. 31, 2012
Dec. 31, 2011
Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract]          
Investment in gold - cost $ 942,277us-gaap_InvestmentOwnedAtCost   $ 1,040,003us-gaap_InvestmentOwnedAtCost    
Unrealized loss on investment in gold (2,266)sgol_UnrealizedGainLossOnInvestmentInBullion   0sgol_UnrealizedGainLossOnInvestmentInBullion    
Investment in gold - fair value $ 940,011us-gaap_InvestmentInPhysicalCommodities [1],[2] $ 1,040,003us-gaap_InvestmentInPhysicalCommodities $ 1,040,003us-gaap_InvestmentInPhysicalCommodities [1],[3] $ 1,561,925us-gaap_InvestmentInPhysicalCommodities $ 1,376,845us-gaap_InvestmentInPhysicalCommodities
[1] At December 31, 2014, the investment in gold is valued at fair value. At December 31, 2013 the investment in gold was valued at the lower of cost or market value. Refer to note 2.1 for a breakdown of cost and fair value of the investment in gold.
[2] Effective January 1, 2014, the Trust has adopted the provisions of Topic 946, Investment Companies, and follows specialized accounting. Refer to Note 2.1 for additional information.
[3] Derived from audited Statement of Financial Condition as of December 31, 2013. The amounts are those previously reported under non-investment company accounting. Refer to Note 2.1 for additional information.