Buying Gold Coins

Gold Coins have been a favorite collectible for centuries. They contain one of the most precious elements on Earth and are beautiful to behold. Gold coins also convey history and art. Many people buy gold coins for both a financial investment and aesthetic pleasure. However, not all gold coins are created equal. Some demand a hefty premium because of their quality or rarity.
It is important to understand what makes a gold coin valuable. The gold in it has value that is determined by the current price of gold. The quality of the coin is also important. The less wear and handling on a coin, the more it is worth. Rarity is perhaps the most vital factor. The fewer gold coins there are like it in circulation, the more it is worth.
Real gold coins were minted as legal tender by governments around the world. Most were minted before the 1930's when most governments around the world, including the United States, went off the gold standard. Gold coins have a stated value on them but are always worth much more than the stated value because of the gold in them. Gold bullion can be made to look like a coin but it is not legal tender. Bullion is made for the gold content although it is often cast with beautiful coin-like artwork. The main difference for the buyer is whether they want a coin that is gold or gold that is merely in the shape of a coin.
Choose your denomination if you want a legal tender gold coin. Most coin dealers consider the standard size for gold coins to be one ounce. This is approximately equivalent to a U.S. $20 gold coin and is about the size of a half dollar coin. Of course it weigh significantly more. You can buy smaller denominations. The United States also minted gold coins in $10, $5, $3 and $1 denominations. There are also foreign coins like the British Sovereign (about a quarter ounce of gold) and French 20 Franc (about a fifth of an ounce of gold) that are very popular.
Search the Internet for the current price of gold. Gold prices change daily and gold dealers base their prices on the daily rate. You need to know the current price of gold so you wont get cheated. Gold prices are stated as dollars per ounce.
Find a reputable gold coin dealer. Be sure they are established and have a good reputation. Ask for recommendations and search the Internet for reviews.
Legal tender gold coins vary in price depending on their rarity and condition. Consult coins books and the Internet to determine a fair price. Pay close attention to the date and mint mark on the coin. This is was distinguishes one coin from another. Understand that the current price of gold will make this price rise and fall.
You can also buy gold coins yourself over the Internet on auction sites like eBay. Understand the risks of buying on Internet auction sites. You are sending your money to a stranger hoping they will mail you gold coins. Be sure you are dealing with a reputable seller and insure all shipments