Summary of the SilverGoldBull.com Business

Silver Gold Bull is a silver and gold dealer that provides a series of other services. The main Silver Gold Bull products are gold and silver and collectibles; its services include storage programs, wholesale of precious metals, trading, buying precious metals, and IRAs.

About Silver Gold Bull Company

Silver Gold Bull was founded in 2006 in Calgary, Canada. They have spread their operations worldwide and have US offices in Texas and Nevada. Starting as a precious metals dealer, Silver Gold Bull has also extended their product list to include other precious metals like platinum, copper rounds, and collectibles. Their services for US residents include safe and secure storage, buy-out programs, spot alerts, wholesale of precious metals, trading, and precious metal IRAs.

Products & Services

The Silver Gold Bull product list is very varied, which works well with the needs and wants of a diverse customer base. The company started with products from the Canadian Royal Mint. It later spread its product range to include precious metal products from the US, Australia, China, South Africa, Austria, the UK, etc.

Their gold products include gold bars, Canadian gold coins, American gold eagles, American gold buffaloes, Chinese gold pandas, South African Krugerrands, Pre-1933 US gold coins, gold by the gram, gold bullion jewelry, gold collectibles, etc.

Their silver products include silver bars, silver rounds, silver shield series, silver bullets, Canadian silver coins, American silver eagles, Perth silver coins, Chinese silver pandas, Silver philharmonics, British silver coins, America the Beautiful series, American silver dollars, fractional silver bars, silver collectibles, etc.

The Silver Gold Bull company also provides platinum products, RCM collectibles, superhero coin collections, certified coins, copper rounds, and various gifts.

However, Silver Gold Bull earned its impressive reputation through the incredible list of services they provide its clients. The services we can emphasize here are safe and secure precious metals storage, insured and secure delivery, spot alerts, wholesale, trading, and precious metal IRAs.

The official website has a wealth of information about gold, silver, and investments and provides advice on everything related to precious metals. It is also very nicely designed, is fast-loading, and has intuitive navigation. The top of the site has the spot prices of gold, silver, platinum, palladium, and everything else you may need to start investing in precious metals. You can use the website to conveniently book a meeting with their sales teams to invest in precious metals.

Conclusion and Reputation

Silver Gold Bull enjoys an impressive online reputation, with over 300K 5-star reviews on TrustPilot, an overall 4.9-star Google Shopper Rating, and an A+ rating on the BBB.

Overall, the conclusion is that Silver Gold Bullion is a trustworthy company that you should consider looking into if you’re looking to invest in precious metals today.

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Before you make an investment decision, consider this Kirk Elliot Review. 

Who is Kirk Elliot PHD?

Kirk Elliot PHD, doing business as Sovereign Advisors, is a wealth consulting firm that helps investors with their financial needs. Their goal is to help you to diversify your investments as well as plan for future financial stability and continued growth. 

Kirk Elliot PHD focuses on people over profits and its employees remain loyal to the company even if it means short-term financial losses. 

Kirk Elliot PHD only operates in a few states, including:

• Alabama
• Arizona
• Colorado
• Florida
• Georgia
• Missouri
• New Mexico
• Virginia

If you don’t live in one of the above states, Kirk Elliot PHD will not be an option for you. 

What Does Kirk Elliot PHD Do?

The goal of Kirk Elliot PHD is to help its customers make the most of the money they have and to increase that money for their future. 

Their goals, according to the website, includes:

• Secure your financial future
• Grow your portfolio through strategy and investments
• Use precious metals to create your investment portfolio
• Continue with a life-long relationship to ensure your financial satisfaction

Kirk Elliot PHD representatives take the time to get to know you and your goals. They will then take this information and make the best decisions for you according to the current market. Depending on your financial goals, your advisor will discuss the following with you:

• Stocks and bonds
• Precious metals
• Precious metals IRA’s
• Real estate
• Storage options

Once your account is up and running, representatives will keep you informed of your account and any economic conditions that may affect you. 

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Representatives have PHD qualifications
• Better Business Bureau (BBB) accreditation of A+
• Focus on precious metals

Cons

• Not many online reviews
• Not available as widely as other companies
• They work in investments only

Is Kirk Elliot PHD a Scam?

Kirk Elliot PHD is not a scam. Kirk Elliot is a real person who is extremely experienced in the world of investing. This also includes the employees who are proud to call this investment company their career. 

The only real issue we have with Kirk Elliot PHD is that they don’t have as many online reviews from customers as we would like. You can find some reviews on Facebook, but that is about it for reviews.

Final Verdict: Is it Worth Investing Kirk Elliot PHD?

Kirk Elliot PHD is a company with extensive financial knowledge. They will be able to guide you in your investments and help you to make the right decision for you and your budget. As long as you live within one of the states that they service, Kirk Elliot PHD is a solid choice for your investment needs. 

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If you’re looking to diversify your retirement account, you will likely do a web search for precious metals brokers and you’ll come across many different companies. Finding the right one can seem daunting, which is why we continue to review the various companies that are out there. 

Today we are going to do a United Gold Direct Review to help you make the decision if this company is the right precious metals broker for you. 

United Gold Direct Background

United Gold Direct has been in existence for over 25 years. Unfortunately, there is not a lot of information about the brains behind the business, but they consistently get positive reviews and are seen as a reliable IRA investment company. 

According to their website, United Gold Direct holds memberships with several industry organizations, including:

• The Industry Council on Tangible Assets (ICTA)
• The Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS)
• The American Numismatic Association (ANA)
• Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC)

The employees at United Gold Direct are experts in precious metals and IRA accounts and they provide clients with extensive education, which allows them to make the best decisions for their financial situation.

United Gold Direct Website

The United Gold Direct website is easy to use and very new investor friendly. Every heading is clearly labeled, and includes the following:

• Precious metals IRA
• 401(k) Rollover
• Approved Coin
• Gold Storage

United Gold Direct Products

United Gold Direct offers customers a variety of services and products, including:

• Education-Employees have extensive knowledge of the precious metals industry and they are happy to share this information. This helps customers to make the best decisions for their investment portfolio.
• Asset Rollover-United Gold Direct can help you to transfer your assets into a more secure IRA account. While they are known as a precious metals dealer, they can absolutely help you to rollover your pre-existing 401(k) into something more secure, including working as a middleman between the banks and credit unions and trust companies.
• Bullion-You can purchase bullion directly from the United Gold Direct website. You can have your purchases either sent directly to your home or to the Delaware Depository. 
• Payment options-You can pay for your purchases in one of a few convenient methods, including cashiers checks, wire transfers, and personal checks up to $10,000. 

United Gold Direct IRA

A gold IRA works similarly to a traditional IRA, except that you will be dealing in alternative investment options like precious metals. Each investor will be assigned an account executive who is an expert in precious metals and their value. 

United Gold Direct account agents will direct customers through the entire investing process, but the website does not disclose what that involves.

United Gold Direct Pricing

United Gold Direct is very transparent with their pricing. One great thing about this company is that  their employees do not have to work to earn a commission, which means that you are getting a fair price for your gold IRA account. The listed costs are as follows:

• Initial Setup Fee = $75+ (The price increases depending on what assets you roll over into your account.)
• Annual Admin Costs = $95
• Annual Storage Rates = $100 – $250 (Dependent on the amount of bullion you are storing)
• Minimum Purchase Amount = $5,000

United Gold Direct FAQ’s

1. Is United Gold Direct legitimate?

Yes, United Gold Direct is a legitimate company with over 25 years in the industry. They do keep their cards close to their chest, so it isn’t super easy to find background information on them, but they are definitely a legit company.

2. Who is United Gold Direct a good choice for?

Because of the lack of information surrounding United Gold Direct, completely new investors may want to look elsewhere, only because investing can be daunting. However, taking a chance with them can be a good thing, especially with their business model and education.

3. What is the minimum investment?

To invest with United Gold Review, you will need to have a minimum of $5,000 to open an IRA account. 

4. Does United Gold Direct have a buyback program?

No, unfortunately United Gold Direct does not have a buyback program.

Final Verdict: Is it Worth Investing with United Gold Direct?

The lack of reviews and company information online does offer up some pause to customers looking at United Gold Direct for their precious metals investment needs. However, we do feel that United Gold Direct is a reliable and safe choice for investors who may have a little bit more experience in the investment world.

Of course, with any decisions on your investments, you should consider your own individual needs and budget before you slap down any of your precious money.

The post United Gold Direct Review & Guide | Gold IRA Sites appeared first on goldirasites.com.

Finding a trustworthy precious metals IRA company does not need to be complex, especially when you leave the investigations to us. Before you plop down your hard-earned cash on any precious metals for your retirement, consider this honest United States Gold Bureau Review. 

Background of United States Gold Bureau 

The United States Gold Bureau has been in the precious metals industry since 2003 and has since become a subsidiary of Lone Star Tangible Assets, which is the parent company that manages the Texas Bullion Depository. This means that there is a high level of security both in dealing with the United States Gold Bureau and in their storage options.

In 2021, the United States Gold Bureau began Wholesale Coins Direct, providing a wider selection of coins, improved service, and more customer-centered information, including a buy-back program and free educational content.

The United States Gold Bureau aims to build trust and exceed customers’ expectations by providing as much additional value as possible. Unfortunately, the Better Business Bureau (BBB) has not yet provided The United States Gold Bureau an accreditation, although The United States Gold Bureau is a member of the Industry Council on Tangible Assets.

Products

The United States Gold Bureau offers up an extensive catalog for its investors, including gold, silver, platinum, and palladium in a variety of coins, coin sets, diamonds, bullion, and other alternative investment options. 

If you’re interested in the products that The United States Gold Bureau has to offer, here is a starter list for you:

Gold Coins

• Liberty Heads
• Gold Kangaroo
• Gold Britannia Coin
• Elizabeth Truman First Spouse
• Gold Tiger Coins
• Kurregard Gold
• Gold Tudor
• American Buffalo
• American Gold Eagle
• Canadian Maple Leaf

Gold and Silver Bars

The United States Gold Bureau carries an inventory of gold bars in various weights from one ounce to one kilogram. Silver bars will range from one ounce to 1,000 ounces.

Silver Coins

The inventory of silver coins at The United States Gold Bureau consists of (but is not limited to) the following:

• Canadian Maple Leaf
• American Eagle
• Peace Dollars
• American Buffalo
• America, the Beautiful
• Morgan Dollars
• Australian Kangaroo

Platinum and Palladium

Platinum is rarer than most other precious metals, meaning that the purchase price will likely be higher. The United States Gold Bureau has platinum coins and various platinum bars for sale. As for palladium, they offer a slightly wider range of bars and coins, including the palladium Eagle.

The United States Gold Bureau’s Services

No matter why you’re looking to work with The United States Gold Bureau, you can likely find a service that they offer that works for you. These services include the following:

• Buy-Back Service-If you’re an investor that is looking at making fast money, you can sell your assets back to The United States Gold Bureau. Of course, check out the spot prices between various companies to get the best deal, but The United States Gold Bureau is typically very straightforward and fair. 
• Sales Packages-The United States Gold Bureau is different from other brokers. They offer packages between $250 to $100,000, where you can include higher quantities of precious metals the more your budget allows. They offer several items, including:

This investment service may exceed consumers’ expectations, as it’s different from any other precious metals broker. With a vast inventory to choose from, consumers can review and buy several precious metals and additional investment items, such as: 

• Coins and bars
• Proof sets
• Palladium and platinum
• Bullion
• Diamonds

• Secure Storage Solutions-The United States Gold Bureau uses The Texas Bullion Depository for its storage solutions. This facility has improved the reputation of The United States Gold Bureau because of how secure it is and how protected your assets will remain. 

Is The United States Gold Bureau Legitimate?

Yes, The United States Gold Bureau is a legitimate company with over 20 years of experience. They only cemented their good reputation by becoming a subsidiary of Lone Star Tangible Assets. 

Unfortunately, The United States Gold Bureau does not have a strong review presence on the internet. They are also not Better Business Bureau (BBB) accredited. In an effort to provide you with all the information on this company, here is are the issues that are commonly mentioned when you do find a review of The United States Gold Bureau:

• Shipping issues and delays
• Misleading promotion
• Slow review and response time to complaints
• Charges for canceled orders

Final Verdict: Is it Worth Investing with The United States Gold Bureau?

The United States Gold Bureau gets mixed reviews online, but they also have some very good positive reviews that show how dedicated to customer service they really are. With their strong foundation, parent company, large inventory, wealth of educational content, and stellar security, The United States Gold Bureau is a solid choice for all of your alternative, precious metals investment needs.

The post United States Gold Bureau Review (Trust Level Revealed) appeared first on goldirasites.com.

The biggest challenge with these types of investments is finding a company that you can trust. There are hundreds, if not more, of options out there and some are definitely better than others. This is why we review the various companies that you may see on an internet search, including this Lexi Capital Review. 

If you’re considering Lexi Capital for your gold IRA, read this review first to find out all the highlights and possible lowlights that may affect your decision.

The Lexi Capital Website

The Lexi Capital website is easy to use, which makes it convenient for newer customers. Their options are clearly laid out and include the following:

• New or Transfer-Opening a self-directed IRA account is quite easy with Lexi Capital. You can keep your traditional retirement plan or you can open a new account quickly and easily. You also have the option to transfer your assets. 
• Portfolio Analysis-If you need some assistance with your alternative IRA, Lexi Capital has you covered. You can learn about how gold, silver, and other precious metals will help you hedge against the fluctuations common in traditional investments and retirement plans. 
• Documentation-Before you can set up an account with Lexi Capital, you’ll need to provide them with some important information, which they have laid out on their site. Nothing is hidden with Lexi Capital and they try to make the process seamless and easy.

Lexi Capital Reputation

In the investment world, there are far too many frauds and scams that cause investors to avoid online precious metals companies. Fortunately, Lexi Capital has excellent ratings, references, and a stellar reputation. 

Lexi Capital has earned an A++ rating from the Better Business Bureau (BBB), as well as high ratings from the Business Consumer Alliance (BCA) and five stars from TrustLink. 

Lexi Capital Fees

Lexi Capital charges no fees to open an IRA account with them. The minimum investment is $1,500, which makes them a great option for newer investors looking to diversify their portfolios. For orders under $15,000, you will be charged a $14.95 shipping fee. 

If your investment is less than $50,000, there will be an annual account management fee of $285 for the first year and $180 for each year after. If you can invest a larger amount (over $50,000), you will not be charged an account management fee.

Also, Lexi Capital gives a 3% discount for orders that are paid with cash, wire payments, or cashier’s check. 

Why Do Investors Like Lexi Capital?

With so many choices for your alternative investment needs, why would you choose Lexi Capital? Experienced investors have weighed in on why they like Lexi Capital, which include:

• Free Education-Some people treat investing like a hobby and some feel that they are completely overwhelmed and want to quit before they’ve even started. Lexi Capital knows that not everyone is investment-savvy so they provide free education for investors looking to enter into the world of precious metals and they pride themselves on helping investors to make the right decisions for their needs.
• Large Selection-Lexi Capital knows that people like options and they offer them. You can choose between vintage coins, numismatics, special edition items, and even more. They also provide you with the pros and cons of each type of investment, which is another bonus. 
• Customer Support-No matter what type of question you might have, the customer support of Lexi Capital is ready to help. 

How to Open a Lexi Capital Account

According to Lexi Capital, you can set up your alternative IRA account within 10 days. The process is simple and includes to following steps:

• Fill out an online application form and provide the requested information about your previous investments
• Fund the account through a rollover from either a current retirement account, check, or cash or combination of these options
• Consult with your adviser about your next investment moves to help you to make the right decision
• Purchase your precious metals 
• Ship your metals to either Lexi’s secure storage facility or your home address

Lexi Capital FAQs

1. Can you cancel your Lexi Capital order?

In an emergency, yes, Lexi Capital will allow you to cancel your order. Just keep in mind that you must do so during typical business hours, you must call them, and you may be charged a $45 cancellation fee.

2. Can you send in a return?

Lexi Capital allows all investors to make returns, exchanges, and refunds for all their products, including certified bullion and coins. You can apply for a return within three days of receiving your order by calling customer service and they will walk you through your return. 

3. How do they ship?

All orders are sent through either FedEx or U.S.P.S. Each order will require a signature upon receipt and will be insured by the company. You will receive your order within 5-10 business days.

4. How to make a withdrawal

Making a withdrawal from your IRA account is just like making a withdrawal from any other account. If you withdraw from your account when you are under the age of 59 ½, you will likely be subject to an income tax, but you will not have that issue if you are over that age. Lexi Capital will help you with this as well, just submit a ticket through your dashboard and they’ll take care of the rest.

Final Verdict: Is it Worth Investing with Lexi Capital?

Lexi Capital has over a decade of experience, which makes them relatively new in the precious metals investment world, but don’t let that turn you away. Experienced investors like Lexi Capital for their customer service, free education, personalized portfolio plan, and a six-month assurance plan, making them a solid and relatively risk-free option for your precious metals investment needs.

The post Lexi Capital Review – Scam or Legit Still? | GoldIRASites.com appeared first on goldirasites.com.

If you’re looking to invest for your retirement, you may have done an internet search to learn more about precious metals and other alternative investment options. And, in this search, you likely came across hundreds of ads for companies willing to help you (AKA: take your money). With all these options, how can you know if the company you’re considering working with is legitimate?

We have researched many different companies and today we’re looking at another. Before you decide on who you want to use for your retirement investments in precious metals, consider this Red Rock Secured Review. We check them out and give you all the information you may need to make the best decision for you and your investment needs. 

Red Rock Secured Background

Red Rock Secured began in 2009 during the collapse of the stock and real estate markets and is based out of Southern California. Since that time they continued to grow and have helped many consumers with their alternative investment options in the precious metals industry. 

Unfortunately, the Red Rock Secured website does not list who is part of the management team, but their LinkedIn profile does provide a little more information about where they come from. Most of them live in Canada or the U.S. and hold degrees that were earned at universities throughout California. 

Red Rock Secured Customer Service

Red Rock Secured offers investors the ability to utilize one-on-one consultations and keeps the lines of communication open for any questions and concerns they may have. Anyone that invests with Red Rock Secured has the ability to visit their holdings facility at any time and they pride themselves on the amount of educational information they have available on their website at any time. 

Now, the Knowledge Center will only be available to you once you’re an investor and have login credentials. The minimum initial deposit required is $1500 and they maintain a “never zero” policy, where they state that your account will never go to zero. 

Red Rock Secured Storage and Custodianship

Red Rock Secured does not give out specific information about their depository unless you are a confirmed customer. However, they do state that they are backed by Lloyd’s of London, they have state-of-the art security systems, and that you can visit at any time. If you’d prefer, you can also get home delivery, just an FYI. 

Red Rock Secured promises that your investments will be secure. They offer price protection in the event that the price of gold drops and they ensure that creditors cannot seize your assets in the event that Red Rock Secured goes bankrupt.  

Red Rock Secured Products

You can find gold bullion, gold and silver coins, which are primarily U.S. and Canadian gold and silver. They do have premium offerings such as the platinum American Eagle coin. Offerings range from 1 oz. to 100 ounces and include many options, including American Eagle coins, gold bars, and South African Krugerrands. 

If you are interested in coins, Red Rock Secured sells circulated and uncirculated coins with silver content. While many consider circulated coins as “junk silver”, they do maintain value as an investment option just for their silver content. 

If you’re looking at IRA’s, REd Rock Secured has you covered. They feature their gold IRA prominently on their website, but you can also deal in silver. They have partnered with Kingdom Trust in Murray, KY to protect the investments held by Red Rock Secured investors. The assets will be physically stored in the Delaware Depository in Wilmington, DE.

Also, Red Rock Secured offers Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) accounts to eligible civil service employees of the U.S. federal government.

Red Rock Secured Ratings and Reviews

One of the best ways to judge a precious metals company is to look at their online reviews. Current and past customers will give you the best look at how they are/were treated and what they liked and disliked. 

Red Rock Secured displays their ratings from outside review sites right on their own website and includes reviews from the Better Business Bureau (BBB), TrustPilot Reviews, and Consumer Affairs. Since 2018, the company has had only four complaints and they maintain an A+ rating with the BBB and an average customer rating of 4.7 out of 5 for TrustPilot. Consumer Affairs Reviews shows Red Rock Secured to have an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 with all of the ratings at either 4s or 5s. 

It is important to note that Red Rock Secured has very few complaints against them.

How To Contact Red Rock Secured

If you’d like to contact Red Rock Secured, you can do so in a few different ways. 

• Website: https://redrocksecured.com/
• Physical Address: 400 Continental Blvd. Suite 200, El Segundo, CA 90245
• Phone number: 844-450-1381

Final Verdict: Is it Worth Investing with Red Rock Secured?

Before you invest with any precious metals dealer, you should consider your own investment needs and the reviews of past customers. Fortunately, Red Rock Secured has many positive reviews from their investors and they can likely meet your investment needs. Even so, you should still compare cost, policies, business practices, and investment options before you invest with any company.

The post Red Rock Secured Review – Is It Trustworthy Today? appeared first on goldirasites.com.

Origins of Platinum

Platinum was used by ancient people in Egypt and Central America, often in jewelry and mixed with gold. The earliest known reference to platinum occurred in 1557, when an Italian doctor named Julius Scaliger named it “platino” or “little silver”. He found it interesting that no matter what he did, he could not get platinum to melt.

For 200 years platinum remained unmeltable and really wasn’t used much because of this. But, in the early 1800’s, two British chemists developed a method to purify platinum by dissolving it in a mixture of nitric and hydrochloric acids, known as “aqua regia”. This allowed platinum to be separated from the other metals that are often found with it, such as palladium and iridium, among others.

Platinum is resistant to corrosion and its high melting point makes it a valuable option for a wider range of applications than other softer metals like silver and gold which can’t stand up to extreme conditions. 

The five most common uses of platinum include the following:

• Jewelry
• Dental work
• Sustainable energy
• Electronics
• Medicine

Jewelry

When early Europeans arrived in South America, they discovered that the ancient people had been using platinum in the creation of their jewelry. That continues today, with approximately 40% of the available platinum in the world being used to create some of the most durable and beautiful jewelry you can find.

The U.S. Federal Trade Commission states that for platinum to be labeled as such in the U.S., it must not contain less than 50% pure platinum and most platinum jewelry is 85-95% pure. Platinum is naturally hypoallergenic and is not only shiny, but strong, making it a popular metal for mounting stones.

Dental Work

The mouth is an extreme place, between the acidity of our saliva, the repeated chewing, and the various foods we eat and drink over a lifetime, it can be easy to see why many metals just can’t stand up to those conditions

Platinum, with its durability and resistance to corrosion, makes it a popular choice for dental work, including fillings, crowns, and bridges. The platinum is usually mixed with other alloys–such as gold, silver, copper, or zinc–to make it more malleable.

Sustainable Energy

As we move towards more environmentally friendly lifestyles, we strive to find products and processes that will be more sustainable and “green”. One way to make that happen is to improve what we use everyday, including sustainable energy. 

Hydrogen fuel cells use platinum to improve their efficiency and is a vital element in catalytic converters, which reduces pollution by decreasing the toxicity of car exhaust. 

Electronics

Computers are another product that uses precious metals in their hard drives. Because these metals are conductive and resistant to corrosion and high heat, gold, silver, palladium, copper, and platinum remain an important part in the building of computers.

One issue with metals being used in the electronics industry is how to reclaim the precious metals before they are thrown out in landfills. Electronics recycling programs will take these items and recycle the metals that are used instead of them being wasted by being thrown away.

Medicine

Chemotherapy helps many people to beat cancer every year. Platinum-based chemotherapy has become a game-changer in the medical world, especially when combined with ruthenium. Ruthenium gathers light, transfers the energy to platinum, which then binds to the patient’s DNA. 

Platinum also helps to reduce the unwanted side-effects and toxicity that often accompany this treatment in other areas of the body. 

Final Thoughts on Platinum and It’s Uses

There is no doubt that platinum is a gorgeous and durable metal that continues to stand the test of time. But, besides being beautiful and expensive, platinum has other uses and has become valuable in more ways than just pretty jewelry, including medicine, electronics, and sustainable energy for its durability, resistance to corrosion, and high melting point.

The post The Uses Of Platinum (Investors Guide) appeared first on goldirasites.com.

In the world of coin collecting, numismatics will usually use one, or more, of these four methods to Organize a Coin Collection:

1. Documentation
2. Acquisition checklists
3. Spreadsheets
4. Coin-specific software

Each of these methods has its positives and negatives and no one method is better than another. How to Organize a Coin Collection will depend on your particular needs and goals. In this article, we will explore all the details of each method to help you decide on the best way to organize your coin collection.

Documentation

The easiest way to track your collection inventory is to utilize documentation. This allows you to quickly identify which coins you already own and what types of coins you’d like to buy next. Any collector can create an inventory log in a three-ring binder, where they can make notes on different criteria, which include:

• Year
• Country
• Variety
• Mintmark
• Denomination
• Quantity
• Grade
• Purchase date
• Purchase price
• Updates on the coins value
• Notes/comments
• Date you sold the coin
• Price that was paid to you when you sold the coin

While this may sound simple, keeping accurate notes in your binder will ensure that you have a complete picture of what your collection contains.

Acquisitions Checklists

If you’re a collector that is looking to add specific coins to your collection, you may want to organize with an acquisition checklist. These checklists not only help you to catalog your collection, but they can also be a list for the coins you would like to purchase next. 

Acquisitions checklists are not as flexible of an organization method, and they typically don’t have room for you to add in other notes about your coins. Some collectors will supplement acquisitions checklists with another documentation method.

Spreadsheets

Spreadsheets are an efficient organizational method for coin collectors. Excel or Google Docs Spreadsheets allow collectors to add, delete, and categorize their coin collection, allowing for an easy way to search and find any collection information they may need. Advanced users may even write formulas that will allow them the ability to assist in the cataloging.

Coin-Specific Software

Coin collectors who have extensive collections may find that it is more beneficial to organize their collection with the help of computer software meant specifically for coin collectors. There are many different types of software out there and one is sure to meet your specific needs.

When looking for the right software, keep these factors in mind about the software you’re considering:

• How easy it is to use 
• How intuitive it is
• Organizational flexibility
• Downloadable pricing information
• The ability to reevaluate prices with the current market

If you prefer to use your smartphone for everything, there are  many coin organization apps out there that have current coin collecting information available at your fingertips. Apps are beneficial as they offer collectors a way to help organize a coin collection quickly and easily.

Coin-Specific Software After Organizing

Once you have your collection organized, it is important that you properly care for your coins. The U.S. Mint recommends that you store your coins in a cool, yet dry place to avoid temperature changes. If your coins still have their original packaging, make sure to use it. If you don’t have the original packaging, you can purchase coin-specific holders and albums.

When you handle your coins, experts recommend that you wear cotton gloves to keep from putting fingerprints and skin oils onto the coin. These things can be corrosive and damaging to the coin.

Should You Polish Your Coins?

As a coin collector, you may wonder if you need to polish and/or clean your coins. Experts recommend that you never polish your coins under any circumstances. Mishandling your coins can really damage their value and many methods for polishing or cleaning them will cause more damage than good.

If you feel that you do need to polish your coins, make sure to do extensive research, take necessary precautions, and use lower valued coins as a way to test your cleaning method. Or, you can contact a professional who is experienced in carefully cleaning and polishing coins.

Final Thoughts on Organizing a Coin Collection

Whether you are a new coin collector, or one who has been in the collecting game for years, it is important to take the time to keep an accurate inventory and organize your collection properly. Doing so allows you to see what you have in your inventory and what your collection is worth. 

Improper organization or storage can cause your coins to be damaged, which can then affect the value of the coins you worked hard to purchase, which no collector wants to have occur. Instead of worrying about the ways your collection can be damaged, consider these methods on How To Organize a Coin Collection.

The post How To Organize Your Coin Collection [FREE Tips] appeared first on goldirasites.com.

If you’re newer to the investment world, or you’re looking towards the future and want to ensure that your hard-earned money retains its value, you may be curious about alternative investments. Before you choose the best way to invest for your situation, consider How to Invest in a Precious Metals IRA.

Methods of Investment in Precious Metals

There are a few different methods for you to invest in precious metals. These include the following:

• Physical possession-When you purchase precious metals, you have the option to store them wherever you want. You would have complete ownership and you can choose to keep your metals either at home or a safety deposit box, for example. This gives some investors peace of mind as they know that only they have access to their precious metals. 
• Precious metals IRA-Precious metals IRA’s allow investors to invest in metals that have a purity of at least 99.5%, and can include gold, silver, platinum, and palladium. Precious metals IRA’s also have tax benefits and you can add in different forms of investments like stocks, mortgages, and real estate. With an IRA, a custodian will hold your investments for you.

Why Should You Choose a Precious Metals IRA

One of the biggest advantages to opening a precious metals IRA is the tax benefits. These accounts allow investors to defer taxes until they decide to make a withdrawal. Precious metals IRA’s also allow investors to avoid fees and have more control over their account. This means you can choose your own custodian, the types of metals you want as part of your IRA, and the depository that will hold them.

Precious metals depositories keep your investments safe in high-security facilities and they offer you insurance, so you know that your precious metals are well protected.

Also, precious metals are an investment that retains their value over time and through inflation and economic instability. Often, investors will use precious metals as a way to offset the risks that come with traditional investments like stocks and bonds.

Yet another advantage to precious metals IRA’s comes during distribution. For example, when it comes time for an RMD (Required Minimum Distribution), traditional stocks will be distributed in dollars. This can vary with the value of the dollar and you may get less than you thought you would. 

FInally, when you own precious metals in an IRA, you are not required to liquidate or sell your metals before taking your distribution. You may liquidate inside the IRA, or you can take them out of the plan in a physical form and have them delivered to you. Having physical possession of your precious metals allows you to take it wherever you want and ensure that they are safe in your hands.

How to Set Up Your Precious Metals IRA

When you’re looking to set up your precious metals IRA, you will need to follow a few steps. These include the following:

1. Select a custodian-The custodian has certain duties that include setting up your account, accepting contributions, and issuing account statements. They will also purchase the precious metals from the dealer and transfer funds from your traditional portfolio to the self-directed, precious metals IRA account. When you select a custodian, research their fees and services, and ensure that they will act in your best interest.
2. Open your account-Once you’ve chosen your custodian, you will contact them to open your account. They will assign you a partner who will help with the application process, which will be done via email, mail, or fax. This can take approximately 24 hours.
3. Transfer funds-Once your account is opened, your custodian will transfer funds into it. They will do all the work but they will need your authorization. Transfers can take up to 5 business days.
4. Select your metals-Now that your account is funded, you can choose your precious metals. Your account partner can advise you on which metals are right for you and they can answer any questions you may have but as this is a self-directed account, you make the final decisions.
5. Metals are shipped-Once you’ve decided on the metals you want and you’ve purchased them, you want to ensure that they’re safe. Most custodians ship metals to the DDSC (Delaware Depository Service Company). The DDSC has an insurance policy that is underwritten by Lloyds of London, they are compliant with UL standards and the Bank Protection Act and they are a non-governmental facility. 

How to Fund Your IRA

There are a few different ways you can fund your precious metals IRA. These include:

• Rollover-If you have another retirement plan, you can withdraw money from that plan to fund your precious metals IRA. You will have to make the deposit within 60 days of withdrawal from the original IRA to avoid taxes or penalties. Also, keep in mind that you can only do this type of transaction once per year per account. 
• Trustee to trustee-This type of transfer is also known as a direct transfer as it happens after an investor authorizes the transfer from a current IRA trustee account to the new IRA account. The IRS will not impose any penalties or taxes on this type of transfer and you will not be restricted to the number of transfers you may complete. 

If you decide that you want to withdraw money from your IRA, you may be subject to some penalties and taxes depending on your age at the time of withdrawal.

The Difference Between a Roth IRA and a Traditional IRA

A traditional IRA allows investors to contribute a pre-tax income towards an account that will continue to grow and will remain tax-deferred. The amount of money that an investor can contribute to the account will depend on their age, income, and tax-filing status. Most traditional IRA’s allow investors to contribute between $5,500 and $6,500 yearly.

Investors will only be taxed when they withdraw from the account and they can claim tax deductions from their contributions. If the investor is younger than 59 ½ years old during the withdrawal, they will incur federal penalties unless they are dealing with unexpected medical bills or they are purchasing a house for the first time.

An advantage of this type of IRA is that investors can lower their current tax bracket because their contributions are tax-deductible. You can also invest more because the IRS will not deduct taxes from your original investment.

If an investor doesn’t qualify for a Roth IRA, they can contribute to a traditional IRA. 

A Roth IRA allows investors to contribute their post-tax income to a tax-deferred account, but does not allow an investor to claim a tax deduction because they are taxed before they go into a Roth account. As long as the investor is 59 ½ years old they will not be taxed when withdrawing money, however if they are not at least that age, a federal penalty will apply.

An investor who is over 70 ½ years old can continue to make contributions to their account and there is no required minimum distribution with a Roth IRA, making it a great option for investors who suspect that their future tax rate will increase.

Final Thoughts

Investing can seem overwhelming but it doesn’t have to be. Finding a professional to help guide you is a great way to ensure that you’re making the right choices for your future. Investing in a Precious Metals IRA will help you to diversify your portfolio and provide you with the financial security that isn’t always guaranteed with traditional IRA portfolios.

The post Learn How To Invest In Precious Metals appeared first on goldirasites.com.

What is the best gold to buy?

Where should I invest?

What are the benefits of investing in gold?

Before you decide to make any important decisions with your money as a new investor, you may want to consider this: What Does it Mean to Invest in Gold?

What Should I Invest in Gold?

If you ask a group of industry experts why you should invest in gold, you’ll likely get a variety of answers. What it boils down to, though, is gold is a way to invest that protects yourself, your family, and everything in your life you’ve worked hard to get. Gold investments help to provide a better future for you and your loved ones, as well as a great way to increase your retirement portfolio.

Investors like gold for a few different reasons. Gold is a tangible asset, meaning you can actually hold it, unlike mutual funds, stocks, and bonds. Gold also keeps its value and allows investors to protect their portfolio against inflation. 

Other reasons why you should consider gold for your investments include:

• Gold is Low Risk-Investing in gold protects your retirement from risk. When major world events occur, traditional banking tends to become unsteady as the market index rises. Gold is a secure investment because it retains its value, making it a lower risk.
• Value-Gold doesn’t rust, is durable, and can retain its beauty for a lifetime. Gold also always has a value no matter how unstable the economy.
• Inflation Benefits-Gold pricing will always vary with the market, but it has the unique ability to keep your money safe from inflation. When inflation occurs, the value of money decreases, interest rates remain low, and money in the banks won’t gain value. Gold keeps a consistent value and you can then exchange it for an equal amount of money no matter what is occurring during inflation.
• Portfolio Diversification-Adding gold into your investment portfolio is a great way to diversify your assets. Diversity in your portfolio will reduce risks and volatility.

How to Invest in Gold

Whether you’re an experienced investor or a total newbie, gold can provide you with many benefits. There are several ways you can go about investing in gold, including the following:

• Gold Funds-A gold fund is a mutual fund that invests in gold exchange traded funds (EFTs) where you will not need a DEMAT account. They are also a safe option for beginners as you will not need to follow the performance of your assets.
• Gold Mining Stocks-Gold mining stocks are dependent on the companies that are mining gold. Gold rates control the stocks, determining if they will go up or go down. Company management, costs of production, and hedging activities may also impact gold stocks, however these types of stocks are typically extremely profitable.
• Physical Gold-Purchasing physical gold is the oldest and most popular way to invest with gold. You can do so in a few ways:

1. Gold Coins/Bars-Gold coins and bars contain no alloys, making them pure. This means there are no production costs and are typically considered a more profitable option in investing.
2. Gold Jewelry-Gold rates for jewelry will depend on the spot rates of gold at the moment. 

• Gold ETF’s-Gold ETF’s invest only in actual physical gold. To invest you will need a trading account, a DEMAT account, and you will be required to pay brokerage fees (between 0.25%-0.5% of the ETF cost). ETF’s are traditionally thought of as a better investment option if you want genuine profits. ETF’s invest your money in 99.5% pure gold.
• Gold Derivatives-This category contains products that base their prices on gold’s current value. This is something more geared for advanced investors.

The Future of Gold

As we’ve discussed, gold is a popular investment option because it has so many benefits, including hedging against inflation and retaining its value, both during the short- and long-term. Of course, nobody can guarantee that gold prices will go up, but you can look towards these signs to determine the performance of your gold investments:

• Slow Economic Activity-When the economy is unstable, banks will update their monetary policies and start to print more money. During these slow times, gold has proven to be a better option.
• Political Turmoil-Chaos among political parties within a country can lead to an unpredictable market. Gold remains safe from political turmoil.
• Geopolitical Turmoil-When world politics gets dicey, investors often turn towards gold and away from traditional investment options.

Final Thoughts

Before you spend any money on gold, you should research your options so you can ensure you’re making the right financial decision for you, your family, and your future. It is essential to know the rules of investing in gold, or at least have some guidance with an industry professional, who can listen to your goals and help you make them a reality.

The post What Does It Mean To Invest In Gold & How To Do It Today? appeared first on goldirasites.com.