Risks and Rewards of Investing in Precious Metals - several different gold and silver bullion on a white background

Any investing comes with both risks and rewards, but the risks and rewards of investing in precious metals are unique.

What are Precious Metals?

Precious metals refer to rare, naturally occurring metals with high economic value. The most common precious metals include gold, silver, and platinum. These metals have been coveted throughout history for their intrinsic value, industrial uses, and symbolism of wealth.

What Does Investing in Precious Metals Entail?

Investing in precious metals involves acquiring physical assets such as gold, silver, or platinum in the form of coins or bars. Investors purchase these metals as a hedge against inflation, currency devaluation, and geopolitical uncertainty.

Precious metals offer diversification within an investment portfolio and serve as a long-term store of value.

As mentioned above, there are both specific risks and rewards associated investing in these precious metals. You’ll want to consider all aspects of this type of investment before jumping in.

Risks and Rewards of Investing in Gold

Here are some of the risks and rewards of investing in goid …

Risks

  • Price Volatility: Gold prices can experience significant fluctuations due to various factors such as economic indicators, geopolitical tensions, and investor sentiment.
  • Storage and Security: Safely storing physical gold can be challenging and may incur additional costs for security measures.
  • Liquidity Risk: Selling physical gold can be less liquid compared to other investments, particularly during times of economic crisis or market turmoil.

Rewards:

  • Safe Haven Asset: Gold is often viewed as a safe haven asset, providing stability and preserving wealth during times of economic uncertainty.
  • Inflation Hedge: Historically, gold has maintained its value over the long term and has served as an effective hedge against inflation.
  • Portfolio Diversification: Adding gold to an investment portfolio can help diversify risk and reduce overall volatility, particularly when traditional asset classes are underperforming.

Risks and Rewards of Investing in Silver

And here are some of the risks and rewards of investing in silver …

Risks:

  • Industrial Demand: Silver’s price is influenced by industrial demand, which can fluctuate based on economic conditions and technological advancements.
  • Market Liquidity: The silver market may experience periods of illiquidity, making it challenging to buy or sell large quantities of silver at desired prices.
  • Storage Considerations: Storing physical silver can be bulky and costly, particularly for larger quantities.

Rewards:

  • Industrial Uses: Silver has various industrial applications, including electronics, solar panels, and medical devices, which can drive long-term demand and price appreciation.
  • Affordability: Silver is more affordable than gold, making it accessible to a broader range of investors seeking to diversify their portfolios.
  • Potential for High Returns: Silver prices have the potential for significant upside, particularly during periods of economic growth and high demand for industrial metals.

Risks and Rewards of Investing in Platinum

Likewise, here are some of the risks and rewards of investing in platinum:

Risks:

  • Industrial Demand: Similar to silver, platinum’s price is heavily influenced by industrial demand, particularly in the automotive industry for catalytic converters.
  • Market Volatility: Platinum prices can be highly volatile, influenced by factors such as supply disruptions, economic conditions, and geopolitical tensions.
  • Storage and Transportation: Storing and transporting physical platinum can be challenging and costly, particularly for larger quantities.

Rewards:

  • Supply Constraints: Platinum is a rare metal, with limited primary production concentrated in a few countries, which can lead to supply constraints and price appreciation.
  • Diversification Benefits: Adding platinum to an investment portfolio can provide diversification benefits, particularly as it tends to have low correlation with other asset classes.
  • Industrial Demand Growth: Rising demand for platinum in emerging industries such as hydrogen fuel cells and medical applications could drive long-term price appreciation.

Next Steps to Start Investing in Precious Metals

Investing in precious metals such as gold, silver, and platinum offers both risks and rewards. It’s essential that you carefully assess your investment objectives, risk tolerance, and market conditions before allocating capital to precious metals.

It’s also important to buy precious metals from a reputable gold and silver business like California Gold & Silver Exchange.

Call (909) 985-4653 or click here to contact us for current prices.

Check out our FAQs for more answers about selling gold scrap.

With Gold at Near Record Prices, Now is the Time to Bring in Your Gold Scrap - assortment of gold jewelry

With gold at near record prices, now is the time to bring in your gold scrap — old or unused gold that you own — and cash in on it.

Whether it’s broken jewelry, dental fillings, or old coins, you can turn these items into cash quickly and easily. And now’s the time to do so for maximum profit.

Common Examples of Gold Scrap

Here are some common examples of items that have value as gold scrap:

  • Broken Jewelry. If you have broken or outdated gold jewelry sitting in your drawer, it’s time to turn it into cash. This includes rings, chains, bracelets, earrings, charms, and pendants that are no longer wearable or fashionable.
  • Dental Gold. Dental fillings, crowns, and bridges often contain gold and other precious metals. Even small amounts of dental scrap can add up to significant value when sold to a reputable buyer.
  • Old Coins. You can get a premium price when selling rare or collectible coins made of gold. But you also can sell common coins containing gold for their metal value. Check your coin collection for any gold coins you may have inherited or acquired over the years.
  • Gold Watches. If you have broken or unwanted gold watches, whether they are designer brands or generic timepieces, you can sell them for their gold content as well.
  • Gold Bullion. If you have invested in gold bars or coins as a hedge against economic uncertainty, you can sell them when prices are high to capitalize on your investment.

The Process of Selling Gold Scrap

If you’re ready to cash in on your gold by selling it, here’s the process for doing so:

  1. Research Potential Buyers. Start by researching reputable gold buyers in your area or online. For example, California Gold & Silver Exchange is located in Upland CA and serves Upland, Glendora, Ontario, La Verne, Montclair, Claremont, and San Dimas. Look for a local business with positive reviews, transparent pricing, and a commitment to fair and ethical practices.
  2. Gather Your Gold Scrap. Collect all your gold scrap items and separate them by karat purity if possible. Gold purity is measured in karats, with 24 karats being pure gold and lower karat values indicating a lower gold content. For example, 14 karats is 58.5% purity, while 8 karats is 33.3%.
  3. Get an Appraisal. Take your gold scrap to a reputable buyer for appraisal. The buyer will evaluate the purity and weight of your gold items to determine their value. Make sure the buyer uses accurate and up-to-date scales and testing methods. As a point of reference, California Gold & Silver Exchange uses an XRF X-ray Analyzer to properly evaluate your gold scrap.
  4. Receive an Offer. Once your gold has been appraised, the buyer will make you an offer based on the current market price of gold and the purity of your items. You are under no obligation to accept the offer if you are not satisfied with the price.
  5. Negotiate if Necessary. If you feel the offer is too low, don’t hesitate to negotiate for a higher price. However, keep in mind that the buyer needs to make a profit as well, so be realistic in your expectations.
  6. Get Paid. Then, if you accept the offer, you will receive payment for your gold scrap. Depending on the buyer, you may receive cash, a check, or a bank transfer. Make sure to get a receipt for your transaction.
  7. Consider Your Options. If you’re not in immediate need of cash, consider holding onto your gold scrap until prices rise even further. However, keep in mind that gold prices can be volatile, so it’s essential to weigh the potential risks and rewards.

Cash in on Your Gold Scrap Today!

With gold prices near record highs, there has never been a better time to sell your gold scrap for cash. So, follow the steps outlined above to ensure a smooth and profitable selling experience. And don’t hesitate to reach out to trusted gold buyers like California Gold & Silver Exchange to get the best price for your gold scrap.

Call (909) 985-4653 or click here to contact us for current prices.

Check out our FAQs for more answers about selling gold scrap.

2024 Silver Maple Leafs featuring King Charles III for the first time

The new 2024 Silver Maple Leafs are highly collectible and historically significant because for the first time ever the front face has a monarch other than Queen Elizabeth II gracing it.

Canada’s signature silver bullion coin is one of the world’s most iconic and instantly recognizable coins. Since its introduction in 1988, the coin has featured a maple leaf on the reverse and Queen Elizabeth II on the face.

Instead of Queen Elizabeth II (who passed away in on Sept. 8, 2022), this year’s coin introduces the first Canadian effigy of King Charles III. His Majesty King Charles III was officially proclaimed King of Canada on Sept. 10, 2022.

2024 Silver Maple Leafs feature King Charles III for the first time ever

Why a Maple Leaf?

The maple leaf has been Canada’s national symbol since the 1800s. Canadian pennies started featuring maple leaves in the 1850s. Then from 1876 to 1901, the maple leaf appeared on all Canadian coins.

Of course, the maple leaf isn’t just used on coins. It’s also a symbol of Canadian identity. In 1868, it was used on the Ontario and Quebec coat of arms. It was on the Olympic uniforms of Canadian athletes beginning in 1908. It was featured on Canadian military uniforms and equipment in both World Wars. And it was put on the country’s new national flag in 1965.

It’s said that the distinctive maple leaf signifies pride, connection, and community.

2024 Silver Maple Leaf Back with the iconic maple leaf symbol of Canada

Highlights of the 2024 Silver Maple Leafs

Here are some coin highlights:

  • Each one-ounce 2024 Silver Maple Leaf is $5 Canada legal tender.
  • The Silver Maple Leafs are minted at the Royal Canadian Mint.
  • The coins are highly pure 99.99% fine silver.
  • The smaller leaf below and slightly to the right of the centerpiece maple leaf is micro-engraved with the number 24 and serves as advanced anti-forgery protection against counterfeiters.

Get Your 2024 Silver Maple Leafs Today

Silver Maple Leafs are always in high demand with collectors, but with the historical significance of the 2024 Silver Maple Leafs, demand is expected to be heavy. So, get yours today!

Call (909) 985-4653 or click here to contact us for current prices.

How to Get Started with Investing in Precious Metals - pile of gold and silver bars

When the economy is uncertain and markets fluctuate, many investors turn to precious metals as a more reliable option, but knowing how to get started with investing in precious metals is a critical first step.

Investing in precious metals like gold and silver offers a hedge against inflation, currency devaluation, and geopolitical instability. But there are specific strategies involved for investing in gold and silver, as well as important considerations for newcomers to the market.

Overview of Investing in Precious Metals

Investing in precious metals involves purchasing physical assets such as gold, silver, platinum, and palladium. These metals have been valued throughout history for their rarity, durability, and intrinsic worth.

Unlike stocks or bonds, which can be influenced by economic conditions and company performance, the value of precious metals is largely independent of these factors.

Benefits of Investing in Precious Metals

There’s a reason that so many people continue to invest in precious metals. Actually, there are several reasons. Here are some of the benefits of doing so:

  • Diversification: Precious metals provide diversification within an investment portfolio, reducing overall risk.
  • Inflation Hedge: Historically, precious metals have retained their value during times of inflation, making them a reliable hedge against currency devaluation.
  • Store of Value: Gold and silver have been recognized as stores of value for thousands of years, offering stability in uncertain economic environments.
  • Liquidity: Precious metals are easily bought and sold, providing investors with liquidity when needed.

Investing in Gold

Gold is the most popular precious metal for investors. Its popularity is due to its scarcity and enduring value. Plus, you can buy gold in various forms, including coins and bars.

Gold coins, such as American Eagles or Canadian Maple Leafs, are minted by government agencies and are highly recognizable and easy to trade.

Gold bars, typically available in various weights ranging from grams to kilograms, offer investors a cost-effective way to acquire larger quantities of gold.

Investing in Silver

Silver is another attractive option for investors seeking exposure to precious metals. Like gold, silver can be purchased in the form of coins or bars.

Silver coins that are popular investments include the American Silver Eagle and the Austrian Philharmonic, known for their purity and quality.

Silver bars are available in various sizes and are an affordable option for investors looking to diversify their portfolios.

Things to Consider When Investing in Precious Metals

Before you get started with investing in precious metals, here are some things to consider:

  • Storage and Security. Consider how you will store your precious metals to ensure their safety and security.
  • Market Conditions. Keep an eye on market trends and factors influencing the price of precious metals, such as interest rates and geopolitical events.
  • Dealer Reputation. Choose a reputable dealer with a track record of reliability and transparency.
  • Factor in transaction costs, premiums, and potential taxes when purchasing precious metals.

Start Investing in Precious Metals Today!

Investing in precious metals offers stability and diversification in an ever-changing financial landscape. Plus, buying gold and silver provides valuable opportunities to safeguard your wealth and preserve purchasing power for the future.

Contact the experts at California Gold & Silver Exchange to learn more about how you can start building your investment portfolio with gold and silver. With their guidance and expertise, you can navigate the complexities of the precious metals market and make informed investment decisions.

Call (909) 985-4653 or click here for more ways to contact us.

PAMP Lunar New Year Gold Bars - 2024 Year of the Dragon - Lunar Legend Series, Legend of the Azure Dragon

The acts of collecting and investing in gold merge into one with the new series of PAMP Lunar New Year Gold Bars.

This is a beautiful series of minted bullion bars — 5g and 1oz options are available. Each gold bar carries a unique serial number and features a stunning proof-like finish.

And the brilliant red CertiPAMP™ assay card and accompanying envelope makes each annual ingot the ideal New Year gift and collectible.

2024: The Year of the Dragon

The series will celebrate each Lunar New Year, beginning with the 2024 Year of the Dragon. This Year of the Dragon begins on Feb. 10, 2024 and ends on Jan. 28, 2025, when the Year of the Snake will begin.

The PAMP Lunar New Year gold bars tell legendary stories related to each of the 12 animals of the Chinese Zodiac. As this is the Year of the Dragon, the first bar tells the Legend of the Azure Dragon.

The Azure Dragon

The Azure Dragon is one of the most celebrated dragons in China and one of the four symbols of the Chinese Constellation.

PAMP Lunar New Year Gold Bar - 2024 Year of the Dragon - Legend of the Azure Dragon

According to mythology, the Azure Dragon is believed to bring good luck and prosperity. While the Azure Dragon is said to control the elements of water and air, it’s also associated with the element of wood, representing growth, renewal, and vitality.

Further, as Guardian of the East, the Azure Dragon is a harbinger of the coming spring season, bringing rain that is essential for bountiful harvests.

The Hour of the Dragon

The obverse design on the bar depicts each of the twelve animals of the lunar cycle as a large star encircling the new moon. The dragon is fifth clockwise, in the 4:00 position.

PAMP Lunar New Year Gold Bar - 2024 Year of the Dragon - Legend of the Azure Dragon - obverse design - Hour of the Dragon featuring the 12 animals of the lunar cycle as large stars circling the new moonPAMP Lunar New Year Gold Bar 5g - 2024 Year of the Dragon - Legend of the Azure Dragon - obverse design - Hour of the Dragon featuring the 12 animals of the lunar cycle as large stars circling the new moon

Throughout the day, each animal has a two-hour window of potency. The dragon is at its most powerful between the hours of 7 and 9 a.m. Its zenith is at 8 a.m.

Get Your 2024 Year of the Dragon PAMP Lunar New Year Gold Bars Today

The 5g gold bar is .90mm thick and measures 13.1mm x 22.1mm.

The 1oz gold bar is 1.71mm thick and measures 24mm x 41mm.

They are an exquisite collectible investment and only available while supplies last. Get yours today!

Call (909) 985-4653 or click here to contact us for current prices.

silver bullion bars

Silver bounced around a little but was relatively flat throughout 2023, so what is the silver market outlook in 2024?

We don’t encourage speculation, since anything can happen, but experts are expecting price strengthening and increases in demand in the year ahead.

What Happened With Silver in 2023?

Silver was at $23.96 per ounce at the beginning of 2023.

It hit a high of $26.06 in May, rebounding from the year low of $20.01 in March.

Overall, with a year-end closing price of $24.33, silver saw a 1.53% growth in 2023.

What are Experts Forecasting for Silver in 2024?

Because of industrial uses for silver, experts are forecasting higher demand, which can also lead to higher prices.
For example, silver is used in solar panels, electronics, electric vehicles, and medical applications. And ongoing tech advancements, along with the global push towards clean and renewable energy, are expected to significantly increase the amount of silver needed to keep up with the demand.
Most of the industry shares the expectation that silver prices will continue to rise to some degree in 2024.

Nasdaq published an opinion that silver could see a high of $34.43 in 2024, while J.P. Morgan forecasts an average of $30/oz for silver by the fourth quarter of 2024.

Allegiance Gold sums up 2024 predictions this way: silver supply to drop + silver demand to increase + lower interest rates + the possibility of more bank failures and war = higher silver prices in 2024.

What Does this Mean for You?

All signs point to silver remaining a good investment in 2024. This means it’s a good time to both buy and sell silver.
But as to what this means to you individually, it’s always best to seek professional financial advice before taking action. Simply call (909) 985-4653 or click here for more ways to contact us.

Gold hit a record high of $2,135.40 per ounce in December 2023, but what is the gold market outlook in 2024?

We don’t encourage speculation, since anything can happen, but experts are expecting further price gains in the year ahead. In part, this is because gold and silver have traditionally been strong markets in times of financial uncertainty.

What Happened With Gold in 2023?

2023 began with the gold market at $1,824.16 per ounce.

It’s normal for gold prices to fluctuate somewhat throughout the year. For example, gold was at around $1,800 per ounce in October 2023 after a high of $2,073.29 in May 2023. And after the high of over $2,100 in early December, gold closed 2023 at $2,062.92.

But despite these fluctuations, with opening 2023 at $1,824.16 and closing the year at $2,062.92, gold saw an overall increase of 13% in 2023.

What are Experts Forecasting for Gold in 2024?

In its 2024 outlook, the World Gold Council looks at several scenarios, with the most likely outcome indicating that gold performance will be “flat with upside potential” in the coming year.

That aligns with J.P. Morgan’s forecast of an average of $2,175/oz for gold in 2024.

Similarly, UBS forecasts prices of up to $2,250/oz by the end of 2024.

What Does this Mean for You?

All signs point to gold remaining a good investment in 2024. This means it’s a good time to both buy and sell gold.

But as to what this means to you individually, it’s always best to seek professional financial advice before taking action.

If you’re looking to take advantage of the strong gold market outlook for 2024 by selling gold — jewelry, coins, bullions, or even dental gold — contact us for pricing. Simply call (909) 985-4653 or click here for more ways to contact us.

Wheat Back Penny

Does California Gold and Silver Exchange Buy Error Coins or Variety Coins? 

At California Gold and Silver Exchange we often get phone calls inquiring about error coins or variety coins.

  • We only buy error coins that are graded by PCGS or NGC.

We do not buy error coins that have not been certified as an error coin. The reason is that in coin making there are different dies that are used for a coin. The age of the die or the place that the coin was minted may be the reason that the coin has a slight difference. This may or may not be an error to the coin. The coin world will often have error’s that are recognized globally.

I saw an online video that said my coin might be valuable. Is it a scam?

With the onset of the internet and YouTube we have seen an increase of videos that identify different “error’s” of coins. These videos are often click bait, used to get people to watch the video and/or subscribing to the video channel and then making money for the video maker. We like to say it is similar to fake news as the information seems to be made up and not from professional coin dealers.

 

What is an Error Coin?

An Error Coin is a coin that has an unintentional mistake or abnormality that affects either a single coin or a small batch of coins. They are made as a result of human or mechanical error during production in what is known as the “striking” process. In most cases the Mint will make identify and destroy these mistakes, but sometimes coins with one abnormality, or sometimes even multiple mistakes will enter into circulation. This makes the coin very rare, and thus collectible.

Types of Coin Errors
Errors are broken up into three major categories.

Planchet Error
– Clipped Planchet when a portion of the coin disc is missing 10% or more of its material.
– Blank Planchet when a portion of the planchet remains unstruck.
– Lamination Error where the coin blank is defective in some way.
– Wrong Planchet when a wrong planchet meant for another denomination or containing the wrong metal is used.

Die Error
– Defective Die are instances where the die used to strike the coin is damaged in some way.
– Cud results from a broken die.

Strike Error
– Off Center strike – a coin that has been struck out of the collar and incorrectly centered with part of the design missing.
– Multiple Strike – a coin with at least one additional image from being struck again off center
– Broadstrike – a coin that was struck outside the retaining collar.
– Brockage – a mirror image of the design.

 

What is a Variety Coin?

A variety coin is created when intentional and unintentional changes to the die (or template) occur before the coins are struck. Because the die itself is at fault, this type of error affects a small batch of coins, rather than just a single coin. Collectors try to add every coin from the series into their collection.

Some Famous Variety coins
1955 Double Die Lincoln Cent
1982-D Small Date Copper
1942/1-P&D Mercury Dime
1937-D Buffalo Nickel 3 leg

 

Do You Buy Error Coins or Variety Coins that are not Certified? 

  • We only buy error coins that are graded by PCGS or NGC. 
The word "Beware" is lined with gold letters on wooden planks. 3D illustration image

Scammer Targets Gas Station and Casinos: 

There is a man going around to gas stations and casinos scamming people with fake gold necklaces and rings. The guy’s story at the gas station is that he is stranded and he needs to get back home. He has his family with him and he drives a nice SUV like an Escalade or similar. He offers the item of jewelry that he is wearing for the person to give him some cash so he can purchase gas. The item that he is willing to trade is marked either 14k or 18k in a big marking that you can read with the naked eye. The mark (or intended victim of the scam) then thinks that they are going to get this “gold” for a little amount and then be able to come into a business like ours and sell the item and make a profit. The items that they are selling are not gold. They are made up of copper, nickel, and zinc and contain no precious metals.

 

How to Stay Safe:

Beware of the warning signs to avoid getting scammed:

  • Man with a story about being stranded or out of gas approaches you and asks for help
  • Gas Station, Casino, or Similar Location
  • Expensive SUV with others inside who are referenced as his Family
  • He offers to give you a ring or necklace that he is wearing which is very clearly marked as 14k or 18k Gold

If you are the intended victim of the scam, politely decline to help the man. As soon as you are in a safe location, call 911 to report the crime and mention this article if needed.

Help spread the word by sharing this story with your friends and family.