[swithers]

Remember that when you purchase precious metals, you pay a premium (per coin or bar). For example, this morning as I am writing this reply, silver spot is $19.52, but the price of most of the silver rounds is $25,51 (www.APMEX.com). Depending on the design on the coin they could cost more, and if you purchase a large quantity you could get better prices. Bottom line, frequent buy/sell or barter can cost you money (the premium charged). You don’t get that premium back because when these place purchase your metals back, they pay you spot or some numismatic value (if it has any).

I look at precious metals in two ways. 1) I am a coin collector. There are certain series that I just like to collect. 2) as a way to preserve some wealth. I would sell or barter if I had to, but I wouldn’t like.