/Getty Images
Investing in gold can be a smart way to protect your investment portfolio losses, protect against inflation and enjoy reliable returns despite economic uncertainty and market fluctuations. And one of the easiest ways to invest in gold is to buy gold bars and coins.
Physical gold is easy to buy, easy to understand, and is a tangible asset that can give investors an added sense of security and satisfaction. That said, there are some things to keep in mind to ensure you’re investing wisely.
Learn more about investing in gold with a free information kit.
Buying Gold Bars and Coins: Dos and Don’ts
To get the most out of your investment, follow these guidelines when buy gold bars and coins.
Buy from a reputable dealer
The first step to buying gold bars and coins is to choose a reputable dealer. You want a dealership with established experience, a solid reputation, and responsive customer service.
Check online ratings, reviews and comments from previous customers. Look for dealers accredited by organizations such as the Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC), Professional Numismatists Guild (PNG), or Accredited Precious Metal Dealers (APMD). These resellers have been vetted and held to strict standards and ethical guidelines, so you can rest assured that you are dealing with professionals.
Check the quality
You should only purchase gold that meets industry quality standards. Before buying a gold bar or coin, evaluate it carefully.
First, check the purity. The purity of gold is measured in carats. The higher the carat, the purer the gold – and the more it is likely to be worth. Investment grade gold is at least 22 carats, but 24 carats is considered the purest form of gold.
Next, check the authenticity. Look for a hallmark or stamp indicating who made the gold, and stick to established mints like the U.S. Mint, Royal Canadian Mint, and South African Mint. If possible, request a certificate of authenticity or a third-party verification service to ensure the quality and value of the gold.
Don’t pay too much
When buying gold bars and coins, you need to consider the premiums or amount you pay above. gold spot price.
Physical gold must be produced, packaged and shipped, which can make it more expensive than other forms of gold investment. That said, the price of a gold bar or coin should be determined by its weight, purity and the current price of gold, not by hype. So be sure to compare prices and fees from multiple dealers to ensure you get a fair deal.
Get your free guide to investing in gold online today.
Don’t buy too much
Gold can provide some much-needed support security and the stability of your investment portfolio. However, it will not generate the potentially large returns that riskier investments, such as actions, could be able. For this reason, experts recommend keeping no more than 5% to 10% of your gold wallet for a maximum diversification.
Store it safely
Once you have purchased your gold, it is essential to store it securely to protect it from theft, loss or damage. Depending on how much you have, you can place it in either a fireproof safe or a bank safe.
Don’t forget to insure it
Your home insurance probably won’t cover the full amount of your gold investment, and banks generally don’t insure the contents of the safe. Make sure you take out insurance to cover your gold bars and coins so you don’t run out of money if something happens to them.
The essential
Investing in gold bars or coins can be a lucrative and rewarding experience if done correctly. Follow the do’s and don’ts above to minimize risks and maximize your returns. With the right information and strategies, you can build a strong and profitable investment portfolio.
Explore your gold investment options — request your free investor kit here!
