Silver and Gold coins

Beginner’s Guide to Precious Metals

Golf Bullion 101

Precious Metals 101

Explore the fascinating world of bullion, coins, and collectibles. Learn about their history, value, and the factors that make them timeless assets to own and appreciate.

FAQ

Are you advisors?

We are not financial advisors, and we do not provide financial advice or services. As a licensed precious metals dealer, we are here to help when it comes time to buy or sell precious metal coins and bullion. At Coins Online, we lead with Honesty, Experience, and Reliability to ensure you have the best possible experience. While we don’t provide financial advice, we prioritize providing clear and helpful information so you can make informed decisions. Whether you have questions or are ready to buy or sell, we’re here to assist.

What should I buy?

Deciding which precious metals to buy depends on your unique goals. Most of our clients prefer products that are “high-quality” and carry a “low premium” over the Spot Price, such as gold and silver bullion bars. These products offer excellent value while minimizing unnecessary costs. We generally recommend reconsidering products with high premiums, such as modern limited-edition novelties or coins subject to sales tax. Ultimately, your choice of products should align with your goals, and we’re here to help explain your options. However, Coins Online does not offer special insights into the future value of precious metals.

Can you explain premiums?

The Premium is the amount you pay above the Spot Price for a specific precious metal product.

For example, if the Spot Price of gold is $2,500 per troy ounce and a 1-ounce bar costs $2,600, the Premium is $100.

Premiums are influenced by supply, demand, production costs, and other factors. Transparent and fair dealers, like Coins Online, ensure their premiums are competitive. Beware of dealers offering obscure novelty items with disproportionately high premiums.

What is your commission?

Coins Online does not charge commissions or fees. Our pricing is fair and transparent, updated throughout the trading day, and designed to give you the best value.

What is a spot price?

The Spot Price is the real-time intrinsic value of a precious metal on the market, before becoming a finished product. Spot Prices are quoted per troy ounce and fluctuate throughout the trading day.

How would I use this in a crisis?

Precious metals are often seen as a hedge against inflation and economic uncertainty. In times of need, they can provide Quick Liquidity, Barter opportunities, and Mobility. Gold and silver coins and bullion enjoy worldwide demand, making them easy to trade or sell in most locations. Their value is based on transparent spot prices, providing an additional layer of trust and security.

Is gold expected to go up or down?

Like all commodities, precious metals experience market volatility, with prices moving both up and down over time. Coins Online cannot predict future prices, but we encourage you to monitor the market and make decisions based on your personal needs and goals.

What’s the difference between coins and bars?

Coins: Minted by governments, coins bear a face value in their respective country’s currency.
Bars: Typically produced by private mints, bars do not have a denomination or face value.
Depending on your location, coins and bars may be subject to different tax treatments. For example, some states charge sales tax on coins but not on bullion. Most clients prefer products that are exempt from sales tax.

How much of my portfolio should I allocate to precious metals?

Coins Online does not provide financial advice. We recommend consulting a financial advisor or fiduciary to determine the allocation that best aligns with your financial goals and circumstances.

What payment types do you accept?

We accept various payment methods, including cash, check, bank wire, and credit cards. Payment options will be detailed during the purchase process.

Can I use an IRA for precious metals?

Yes! You can own precious metals within a Self-Directed Precious Metals IRA. This allows you to enjoy the benefits of physical precious metals within a tax-advantaged retirement account. Visit our IRA Information page for more details.

How should I store my metals?

Many precious metal owners store their investments in secure locations such as home safes, bank safety deposit boxes, third-party storage facilities, or discreet hiding places. The choice of storage depends on your individual preferences and needs. Coins Online does not currently offer storage services but can provide tips for secure options.

Still need help?

If you couldn’t find the answer you were looking for in our FAQ, don’t worry! We have multiple ways for you to get in touch with us.