Does collecting Bullion make sense?

Howdy,

I like to collect coins and invest in bullion. I love some of the world bullion coins and a nice collection of bullion would be as many different silver or gold coins from around the world. How many countries could you represent? There is a long time variation this theme with the collection of Silver Crowns. They are your silver dollar sized coins from around the world, that used to have the ruler, or 'crown' on the obverse. These days, there are dozens of countries minting gold and silver bullion coins and many of them are gorgeous. You can get them slabbed, but with modern coinage, I really don't see the need. I've had a couple of rare dates that I sent in myself, but I've never bought a modern slabbed coin and won't. They're way overpriced, particularly the MS-70 First Strike nonsense. The other no-no is buying coins off of TV.

Use Coin World and Numismatic News as a source of vendors that you can compare. Also, check Apmex and some of the other online dealers for price guidelines.

peace,

rono

 

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Well, there's bullion, then there's bullion with collector value. For instance, if you bought a new AGE in hopes it would become a key date. Then you could just hold it if it's not, as bullion. Think also of the 25th silver eagle set scenario. Then consider the Britannia, which used to be limited mintage, but sadly now is not. You can get that gorgeous design for $40 in 2012, but it will probably never increase like all previous years. Then consider a 2012 "Roo at sunset," which has the low mintage, but you're already paying the premium...not unlike paying $70 for an ASE proof. I think collecting bullion is great when combined with stated mintage limits, and especially with a predictable timeframe, like the recent silver Canadian wildlife series (wolf, bear, cougar...) Some people like the gold presidential spouses for this reason.

The main question is: what is your purpose? You say "collecting bullion," which I assume you contrast to "stacking." I think that's fine, but if you don't have a definite strategy (e.g. Eric Jordan), then at least be sure you enjoy looking at it.

 

I do exactly what you are suggesting and enjoy it. I try to stay away from any proof issues though and focus only on bullion. The proof issues have really gotten out of hand. TC

 

I originally started by collecting world silver coin issues but have gone away from it due to amount of silver coins being pumped into the markets by all the mints way too many to keep track and even make collection of. Not to mention people in bay seem to pay premium for all these silver coins doubt you could ever break even selling them even if silver goes up 30%.
Worse maintaining all the proof coins became a hassle (dreaded white spots).

 

I echo all the CT-ers who said yes! I think it's a great idea. Have fun!

Fyi, I like the idea so much that I started my world silver collection from the year 2009 - mostly due to fund limits for collecting the rest of slabbed NGC 70s. When I have more extra money, I'll go with earlier years!

 

Speaking of world bullion, Provident Metals just received their shipment of 2012 Koalas in 1 ounce and 1/2 ounce. No; I 'don't work for them and no I don't get a kickback. I mention them because they offer good service, as do APMEX and Gainesville Coins, but they don't gouge on shipping like the latter 2. Also, they still have some 2012 Kooks, if you need them. Now, back to the regularly scheduled programming.

 

Yup, I'm with the others, well worth it. Think of bullion as having a dual purpose, some have numismatic value and bullion spot value as well. A great example is: try buying a Canadian 1 oz. Timber wolf for spot. Good luck with that!

 

I used Provident for the first time this week and received my bullion today. good company so far