Should the word "Coin" in an ad mean it's really a coin?

I remember that ad, but I think you got a few details wrong.

Those were $5 Bullion Eagles, not Double Eagles (It wasn't mentioned that way, otherwise the makers of the "Paid Program' would've been nicked for misrepresentation). Then that would be the half-ouncers (which are $25, not $20).

They sold them individually, or that "5-pack" in the acrylic case. And the guy also touted "Large Purchases beyond the scope of the program" or some BS like that.

 

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Must be a different ad. I made my post immediately after seeing the ad I mentioned on TV. OK, I stand corrected, they weren't Double Eagles, but they were the same sized current $50 Standing Liberty Gold one ounce coins. And what you get are the 1/10 ounce coins. With gold currently ~$725 per ounce, you'd be paying about a 33% premium for what you get.

 

Agreed.

The bottom line : it's a subtle but unmistakable attempt to mislead. While not explicitly lying, it is clearly intended to lead the unsuspecting to an erroneous conclusion. In my mind, that's unethical.

"To thine own self be true..."

 

My concern in this discussion has been to protect our hobby rather than to protect those whom I keep referring to as the "criminally stupid".

You can't protect people from their own greed, nor do I think you should try.

There are two parts to this equation; an unscrupulous seller and a buyer that wants to own something of value (regardless of their lack of knowledge on the subject).

The seller, well, they have a perfect right to peddle their wares, this is America, the land of opportunity. Where unfortunately, just like P. T. Barnum said, "there's a sucker born every minute".

While we mostly agree that these sellers should be publicly stoned, what about the buyers? Should we protect people from their own stupidity? Should we protect them from their own greed? Definately not, and I don't think that my proposed law would attempt it.

Natural selection has it's own way of weeding out the weak. I merely suggested a way that we could make it much easier to tell the genuine from the fake. A way to help someone who takes the time to listen (or read) critically to determine the truth whether or not the seller is intellectually honest. A way to make the fraudulent sellers responsible and accountable. This is a simple solution that still requires that people use their brains. It doesn't protect them from themselves, just keeps the wolves in wolves' clothing so to speak.

on an off topic: love the John Prine quote in your signature 900!!!

 

No true word have been said lately! thank U Mike!

 

Coins weren't so round until recently.

 

4 year old thread? Really?

 

I think this is a great discussion to revive.

 

it was one of the suggested links under a thread I was reading