"Gold" coins can go wrong ( as it has for years ) if it isn't real gold content. I only buy gold from a dealer with a XRF that shows me the verified % of the content. I have several times spent hours in the shop and seen customers bring in gold rings, crosses on chains, Mexican engagement "gold " coin, even Grandma's gold bracelet, etc. about 10 or more a day. He is very kindhearted as most live in the same area so he usually doesn't charge. Ever once in a while it is real and everyone smiles and is happy.
Gold is a precious metal. So is silver. It goes up. It goes down. If you buy high and it drops, you loose money. If it goes up, you’ll make money. Nothing special about it really.