Bonds that can be redeemed by the holder. The convention in most West European countries is to issue bonds in registered form. (Contrast with registered bonds.)

Bearer bonds are unregistered bonds which are payable to the bearer. Bonds are no longer issued in bearer form, but there are some older bearer bonds that are still in circulation.

Bearer bonds contain detachable coupons, with each one representing a scheduled interest payment; anyone who possesses, or bears, the bonds is the owner.  Interest is claimed by clipping off the coupons and presenting them to an agent of the issuing corporation or government agency for payment.  Registered bonds have replaced bearer bonds.

Bonds with principal and interest payable to whoever holds the certificates. In other words, it is not registered in anyone's name.

Unregistered bonds that are payable to whomever has possession of them. Bearer bonds are no longer issued, but some old bearer bonds are still in circulation.

Also called a coupon bond. A bond that is not registered in anyone's name. A bearer bond is payable to the person who holds it. Bearer bonds are no longer being issued.