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Costco Adds Platinum Bullion Amidst Double-Digit Gold Sales

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Costco Gold Bullion on Display in a Warehouse Location

Costco reported a modest 1.0% increase in net sales for its fourth quarter of fiscal year 2024, reaching $78.2 billion. According to a report from Kitco, Costco’s gold bullion sales have become a significant driver of its online sales, with reports of double-digit increases in gold sales over the past three months.

The growth is notable, especially given the competitive retail environment, and suggests that consumer interest in gold remains robust despite rising prices.

Costco’s CFO noted that gold has been a “meaningful tailwind” for e-commerce sales, indicating that the popularity of gold bullion is helping to bolster online revenue. The rapid sell-out of online bullion products further highlights this trend.

Analysts are closely monitoring Costco’s gold sales, with some suggesting that the company could explore private-label gold products in the future. While no such plans exist, the interest reflects this segment’s growth potential.

Costco’s collaboration to offer the Gold Maple Leaf Single Mine bullion coin is a strategic move to attract members interested in unique and collectible bullion products, further enhancing its market appeal.

Costco Gold Maple Leaf in Assay Card
Costco’s Maple Leaf Gold Coin in Assay Card

Despite gold prices exceeding $2,600 an ounce, analysts from Wall Street banks expect demand for physical bullion to remain strong. Higher prices can historically deter retail buyers, but the current environment suggests that many investors prioritize physical gold holdings as a haven amid economic uncertainty.

A major retailer like Costco selling precious metals reflects a broader interest in alternative investments due to current economic conditions. Gold prices have risen, with expectations for continued growth due to factors like additional interest rate cuts by the Federal Reserve. Silver, while not as dramatic in price increase, also showed growth.

Analysts like Joseph Cavatoni from the World Gold Council observe a strong demand in the investment category, reinforcing that investors increasingly turn to physical gold as part of their asset allocation.

Costco Platinum Bars

Following the success of their gold and silver offerings, Costco has added the PAMP Suisse 1 oz Platinum bar to its product lineup.

PAMP Lady Fortuna 1 oz Platinum Bar
PAMP Lady Fortuna 1 oz Platinum Bar

While the Platinum Bars are available online and in some physical stores, there are limitations. Some states, such as Nevada and Louisiana, restrict certain products, so precious metals are only available in some parts of the country.
Also, buying precious metals at Costco requires a membership. While some Executive members have reported combining special offers with cash-back rewards and racking up rebates, these PAMP Platinum Bars are limited to one per member.

Lady Fortuna Platinum Bars

PAMP Lady Fortuna Platinum Bars are among the most popular and sought-after platinum bullion products in the precious metals market. Produced in Switzerland, investors seek PAMP Platinum Bars for their purity and craftsmanship. The Lady Fortuna design features the goddess wearing a blindfold and holding a cornucopia that pours out riches, symbolizing the unpredictability and abundance of fortune.

Fractional Platinum Bars Available From PAMP Suisse

While Costco sells only the 1 troy ounce bar, Lady Fortuna Platinum Bars are available from online bullion dealers in an assortment of sizes, making them accessible to a wide range of investors.

PAMP Suise 5 Gram Platinum Bar
Lady Fortuna 5 gram Platinum Bar

The most common sizes include:

Each is stamped with its weight, purity, and unique serial number. The PAMP brand name ensures quality with its proprietary VeriScan™ technology, which allows buyers to verify the authenticity of the bars using a digital fingerprint stored in PAMP’s database.

Costco vs Online Bullion Dealers

While Costco offers the convenience of buying precious metals while shopping for toilet paper and other essentials, they provide a minimal selection compared to specialized dealers.

During their online flash sales, the prices of gold bars and coins are often competitive against specialty precious metals dealers. However, in-warehouse pricing is much less competitive due to the static nature of retail pricing.

Online dealers specializing in precious metals offer a greater selection of Lady Fortuna platinum bars and are more competitively priced, using live market conditions.

It’s essential to compare prices to ensure you’re getting the best deal.

Costco’s reported gold sales reflect the robust demand for precious metals, indicating a strong and possibly sustained interest in physical bullion despite high prices.

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2025 American Eagle Pre-Sales

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As the year draws to a close, pre-sales of 2025 American Eagle will be starting in the coming weeks and dealers are updating their websites to accommodate the release.

In the past, precious metals dealers have begun pre-sales for the 2025 American Silver and Gold Eagles during the month of October.

These pre-sales allow investors to lock in prices before the coins are even available, ensuring they don’t miss out on the early releases. While the coins themselves are not expected to ship from the U.S. Mint until the first half of January 2025, many buyers take advantage of pre-sales to lock-in the price and guarantee that they will receive their coins as soon as they are minted and distributed.

U.S. Mint 2025 American Silver Eagle

As some of the most recognizable and trusted coins in the world, American Silver Eagles (1 oz of .999 fine silver) and American Gold Eagles (offered in 1 oz, 1/2 oz, 1/4 oz, and 1/10 oz of 22-karat gold) are the go-to options for many investors looking for physical bullion. The rumors circulating that Costco may be permanently incorporating precious metals into their product line only help spread that recognition further.

Annual Changes

The release of the 2025 coins marks the beginning of a new production cycle for the U.S. Mint. Near the end of each year, the U.S. Mint ceases minting the current year’s coins. This pause allows for crucial equipment maintenance, as well as the replacement of dies that are used to strike the new year’s coins.

During this period, market availability of current-year coins can become scarce, leading to increases in premiums. Typically, secondary market or random-year Silver Eagles will have the lowest premiums.

What to Expect from the 2025 American Eagle Coins

U.S. Mint 2025 American Gold Eagle Obverse
2025 American Gold Eagle Obverse

While the designs of the American Silver Eagle and American Gold Eagle have remained largely unchanged since the 2021 design refresh.

Both coins are known for their patriotic designs, premium minting quality, and, of course, their precious metal content. Investors will find the 2025 American Eagles to be no different—an attractive investment that combines artistry with intrinsic value.

Dealers Prepare for Strong Demand

With gold and silver prices hitting record highs week and week, dealers are anticipating strong demand. Early buyers should quickly secure their coins at market prices when they become available for sale.

During periods of strong market demand, the current-year American Eagles tend to sell out quickly, as was the case during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic.

With prices now hitting new highs, a similar scenario could unfold, especially as more investors seek out tangible assets like gold and silver to protect against inflation and economic instability.

Many dealers offer special pre-order pricing, incentivizing those eager to add the 2025 coins to their portfolios before they hit the broader market.

January 2025: Shipping Begins

While pre-sales are beginning now, investors will need to wait until January 2025 for the coins to officially ship from the U.S. Mint. The Mint has historically fulfilled orders during the first half of January, ensuring that investors receive their new coins shortly after the new year begins. With pre-sales orders secured, many buyers can expect to see their 2025 American Eagles arrive shortly after the Mint starts shipping.

As demand for physical bullion remains strong, the annual release of the American Silver Eagle and American Gold Eagle coins is a great opportunity to add precious metals to a portfolio with prices locked at the time you place your order.

If you’re considering adding the 2025 American Eagles to your portfolio, now is the time to explore pre-sale opportunities and secure your position before the rush begins in January.

U.S. Mint Authorized Purchasers

U.S. Mint Authorized Purchasers are a select group of companies or dealers that are officially approved by the U.S. Mint to purchase bullion coins directly from the Mint in bulk.

These Authorized Purchasers (APs) serve as wholesalers between the U.S. Mint and the general public, helping distribute coins like the American Silver Eagle, American Gold Eagle, American Platinum Eagle, and other bullion products to the retail market.

APs distribute these coins to other wholesalers and distributors, retailers, precious metals dealers, and, in some cases, directly to the public. This network ensures that U.S. Mint bullion products are widely available in both domestic and international markets.

Becoming a U.S. Mint Authorized Purchaser involves meeting stringent criteria, such as financial standards to ensure they have the capacity to buy and distribute large quantities of bullion.

Some Examples of U.S. Mint Authorized Purchasers:

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Collecting Liberty Head $5 Half Eagle Gold Coins

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The Liberty Head $5 Half Eagle gold coin holds a special place amongst collectors and investors.

These coins combine affordability, historical significance, and investment potential, making them far more accessible and desirable to a broader range of collectors. But what makes these coins stand out, and why are they more popular than the earlier designs?

Liberty Head Series

The Liberty Head design, created by Christian Gobrecht, features a classic image of Lady Liberty wearing a coronet, symbolizing freedom and American ideals. She is depicted on the obverse wearing a coronet with the word “LIBERTY” inscribed. The reverse features an eagle with a shield on its breast, clutching arrows, and an olive branch, symbolizing both war and peace.

1891 $5 Half Eagle Gold Coin BU
1891 $5 Half Eagle Gold Coin in Brilliant Uncirculated Condition

This design was used on multiple denominations of U.S. gold coins minted from 1839 to 1908, including the $5 Half-Eagle, giving them a cohesive appeal.

$5 Half Eagle Reverse
$5 Half Eagle Reverse

Liberty Head coins were struck in large quantities and widely used in circulation. As a result, more have survived, helping to keep $5 Half-Eagle prices at affordable levels, particularly in circulated grades.

Affordable $5 Half Eagle Coins

The U.S. Mint struck the $5 Liberty Head Half Eagle continuously for nearly 70 years and in much larger quantities than earlier coins. These coins often trade closer to their intrinsic gold melt value and are widely available in various conditions, from heavily circulated to brilliant uncirculated, allowing collectors to choose coins that fit their budget and collecting goals.

Liberty $5 Specifications

CoinCompositionGross
Weight		Gold
Content		DiameterThicknessEdgeMinting
Years
$5 Half Eagle90% Gold
10% Copper		8.359 grams
0.2687 troy ounces		0.24187 ozt21.6 mm
0.85 inches		1.4 mmReeded1839–1908
Coin Specifications Table

Common-Date $5 Half Eagle Value Ranges

ConditionValue Range
Good (G-4) to Very Fine (VF-30)$700 to $800
Extremely Fine (EF-40 to EF-45)$750 to $850
About Uncirculated (AU-50 to AU-58)$750 to $900
Mint State (MS-60 to MS-62)$800 to $1,000
Mint State (MS-63 and above) $2,500 to $10,000+
Coin Values table

In lower grades, the value of most $5 Half-Eagles is near their gold melt value, with a small premium for their historical and numismatic significance.

Coins in Extremely Fine condition have less wear and show more detail, commanding a higher premium. Coins in AU condition are highly desirable as they retain much of their original luster.

NGC MS62 $5 Half Eagle Gold Coin
Liberty Head $5 Gold Piece MS62 NGC Value: $700 to $900

Liberty Head $5 Half Eagles in Mint State condition can be significantly more valuable, with prices starting around $800 and going up.

High-grade Liberty Head Half Eagles are rare, particularly with strong eye appeal. They can fetch $2,500 to $10,000+.

Like the larger denominations, the condition of a $5 half-eagle significantly influences its value. Coins in higher grades, such as Mint State, command much higher prices than those in lower grades.

$5 Half Eagle Grading Scale

When evaluating and grading $5 Half Eagle Gold Coins, third-party grading services use the Sheldon Scale, which provides an accurate, reliable, consistent and transparent grade. Coins that are authenticated, graded and encapsulated are preferred due to their ease of liquidity.

The Sheldon Scale was developed by Dr. William Sheldon in 1949 as a 70-point scale used to grade the condition of coins. The grades range from 1 (Poor) to 70 (Perfect Mint State).

Valuable $5 Half Eagle Key Dates

These key dates generally command much higher premiums than more common dates.

Fine (F-12)Extremely Fine (EF-40)About Uncirculated (AU-50)Mint State (MS-60)
1839-C (Charlotte)
Mintage: 17,205 coins		$5,000 to $7,000$15,000 to $25,000$30,000 to $50,000$70,000 and above
1861-C
Mintage: 6,879		$1500 to $2,500$2,000 to $3,000$2,500 to $3,500$3,000+
1861-D (Dahlonega)
Mintage: 1,597		$30,000 to $50,000$100,000 to $150,000$200,000 and up
1854-S (San Francisco)
Mintage: 268		$25,000 to $35,000$75,000 to $150,000$250,000 to $400,000Upwards of $500,000+
1875 (Philadelphia)
Mintage: 200		$40,000 to $50,000$100,000 to $200,000$300,000 and up
1862-S
Mintage: 9,000		$4,000 to $7,000$12,000 to $20,000$25,000 to $40,000
1901-S
Mintage: 3,437,640		$700 to $800$800 to $1,200$4,000 to $5,000$8,000 and up
1870-CC
Mintage: 7,675		$10,000 to $15,000$35,000 to $50,000$70,000 and up
Key Dates and Values Table

The Charlotte and Dahlonega mints were part of the early Southern Gold Rushes in the U.S.

1855-C $5 Half Eagle Reverse Showing the Mint Mark from the Charlotte Mint
1855-C $5 Half Eagle Reverse Showing the Charlotte Mint Mark

The Charlotte Mint was established in 1838 to process gold discovered in the North Carolina gold rush. Around the same time, the Dahlonega Mint opened to handle gold from Georgia’s gold rush.

Coins from these mints saw heavy use in daily transactions. Uncirculated and high-quality examples of $5 Half Eagles from these mints drives is scarce and drives their value among collectors.

Mint Marks

Coins struck at branch mints have mint marks located on the reverse side, below the eagle.

Mint marks include:

  • C for Charlotte
  • D for Dahlonega (pre-1861) and Denver (post-1906)
  • O for New Orleans
  • S for San Francisco
  • No mint mark for Philadelphia
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Mexican 50 Pesos Centenario Gold Coin

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The Mexican 50 Pesos Centenario Gold Coin is one of the most famous and sought-after gold coins from Mexico. It was first minted in 1921 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Mexico’s independence from Spain, hence the name “Centenario.”

Mexico 50 Pesos Centenario Gold Coin

Centenario Design

Obverse: The obverse features the iconic image of “Winged Victory,” a depiction of the Roman goddess Victoria standing on a pedestal, holding a laurel wreath in her right hand and broken chains in her left. Behind her are the Popocatépetl and Iztaccíhuatl volcanoes. The date “1821” is inscribed to commemorate the beginning of Mexico’s independence.

Reverse: The reverse shows Mexico’s national coat of arms, featuring a golden eagle perched on a cactus, holding a snake in its beak and talon. The words “Estados Unidos Mexicanos” (United Mexican States) are inscribed around the eagle.

Centenario Specifications

The Centenario Gold Coin has a gross weight of 41.67 grams and contains 37.5 grams (1.2057 troy ounces) of pure gold, making it one of the largest and heaviest gold coins in circulation.

The coin is 90% gold (21.6 karats), with the remaining 10% being copper, which gives it a distinct reddish hue. The diameter of the Centenario is 37 mm, while the thickness is 2.69mm.

Historical Significance

The Centenario 50 Pesos Gold coin was initially minted in 1921, but its production continued in various years, with a notable reissue in the 1940s and 1950s due to the high demand for gold coins. Some of these later issues bear the original date of 1947, making them re-strikes rather than original coins.

Investment and Collectibility

Due to its large gold content and historical significance, the Centenario is a popular choice among investors and collectors. Its relatively low premium over the gold spot price makes it an attractive option for those looking to invest in gold.

The coin is also admired for its detailed and beautiful design, making it a favorite among numismatists.

Centenario 50 Pesos Coin Mintage History

YearMintage Amount
1921180,000
1922463,000
1923432,000
1924439,000
1925716,000
1926600,000
1927606,000
1928538,000
1929458,000
1930372,000
1931137,000
194389,000
1944593,000
19451,012,000
19461,588,000
1947309,000
1949-19724,449,554 *

Originally minted from 1921 until 1931, production of the Centenario 50 Pesos Gold coins was suspended because of diminished demand during the Great Depression when many countries removed gold coins from circulation.

From 1933 until 1974, during the time when gold ownership was illegal for regular citizens, 50 Pesos coins were exempt from the ban due to their numismatic value. The numismatic clause allowed for gold investors to become coin collectors as a way to bypass the prohibition on gold ownership.

Minting resumed in 1943 and continued through 1947 as demand for gold increased due to the second World War.

Production of restrike coins began in 1949 with all coins minted continued to bear the 1947 date. 1947 Centenario restrike coins continued to be minted through 1972.

In 1996, the Mexican Mint began another production run of restrikes and minted at least 7,954,777 coins. These restrike Centenario coins are commonly available in the market as investment-grade gold bullion coins.

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Mexican Libertad Mintage History

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mexican-gold-libertad-5-piece-proof-set

1 oz Libertad Gold Coin Mintage History

YearMintage Amount
200215,000
2003500
20043,000
20053,000
20064,000
20072,500
2008800
20096,200
20104,000
20113,000
20123,000
20132,350
20144,050
20154,800
20164,100
2017900
20182,050
20192,000
20201,100
20211,050
2022
2023

Libertad 5 oz Silver Coin Mintage History

YearMintage Amount
199620,000
199710,000
19983,500
19992,800
20004,000
20014,000
20025,200
20036,000
20043,923
20052,401
20063,000
20073,000
20089,000
200921,000
20109,500
201110,000
20129,500
201310,400
20146,400
20159,500
201611,400
20175,050
201816,600
201918,000
20208,900
20216,060
20227,000
2023Not yet known

Libertad Kilo Silver Coin Mintage History

YearBullionProof
20082,003–
20094,000–
20104,000–
20116,000–
20122,300–
2013––
2014––
20152,000–
20162,000–
2017200–
2018500–
2019200–
2020500–
2021500–
2022Not yet knownNot yet known
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Comparing the American Gold Eagle vs American Gold Buffalo

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The U.S. Mint’s responsibility for issuing investment-grade bullion coins began with the passage of the Gold Bullion Coin Act of 1985, which led to the production and release of the American Eagle series in 1986. These coins are designed to provide a trusted store of value and wealth for investors.

Today, the Gold Eagle and Gold Buffalo are the two gold bullion coins produced by the U.S. Mint. While both coins are esteemed for their purity and craftsmanship, they have distinct features that appeal to different types of investors and collectors.

American Gold Eagle

The American Gold Eagle was established by the Gold Bullion Coin Act of 1985 to provide a trusted investment vehicle for precious metals. The first Gold Eagle was released in 1986.

1 oz Gold Eagle Type-2 Reverse

The 1 oz Gold Eagle coin contains one full troy ounce of gold. The coin itself is minted with 22k, or 91.67% gold, with the remainder comprised of a mix of silver and copper. The alloyed composition makes it more resistant to scratches and dents, ideal for handling and storage.

The obverse design features Lady Liberty holding a torch and olive branch. The design was created by Augustus Saint-Gaudens and was originally used on the $20 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle from 1907 until 1933.

The reverse of design of coins minted until the middle of 2001 depicts a family of eagles that was designed by Miley Busiek.

Partway through the 2001 mintage year, a new design featuring the head of a bald eagle that was created by designer Jennie Norris.

Gold Eagle Premiums and Liquidity

The longer history and extensive production have made it a staple in the bullion market with investors.

When buying, Gold Eagles typically carry a lower premium over the spot price of gold compared to the Gold Buffalo due to its 22k composition and wider availability.

The Gold Eagle is a highly recognized and traded globally, making it a very liquid asset. When selling, dealers will often offer a small premium over spot price during normal market conditions.

Approved for inclusion in Precious Metals IRAs.

American Gold Buffalo

The American Gold Buffalo was authorized by the Presidential $1 Coin Act of 2005 with the first issue available in 2006.

Although newer, it quickly gained popularity with investors seeking the highest quality 24k gold.

Gold Buffalo

The overall design is based on the 1913 Buffalo Nickel, designed by James Earle Fraser. The obverse features a profile of a Native American chief.

While the reverse features a depiction of an American bison, also designed by Fraser.

Gold Buffalo Premiums and Liquidity

When buying a Gold Buffalo coin, it is common to find that these carry a higher premium over the spot price of gold due to its pure gold content, collectible design and lower annual mintages.

These coins are also highly recognized and traded in the secondary bullion markets, though slightly less liquid than the Gold Eagle due to its newer introduction. When selling to a bullion dealer or coin store, it is common to receive an offer that is priced slightly above melt value under normal market conditions.

Approved for inclusion in Precious Metals IRAs.

.999 vs .9999 fine

Both the American Gold Eagle and the American Gold Buffalo are excellent choices for gold investors and collectors, each with unique attributes.

Aside from the design, the primary difference between the coins is the difference in the purity of the gold.

The Gold Eagle, with its historical design and durable composition, is ideal for those seeking a robust and widely recognized investment.

While each contain a full 1 troy ounce of fine gold, due to the inclusion of the copper and silver, the American Eagle is 22k gold, or 91.67% with an overall weight of 1.0909 troy ounces.

The Gold Buffalo was created due to investor demand for 24k gold coins, such as the Canadian Maple Leaf or the British Britannia, and appeals to purists and collectors who value its 24k gold purity and classic American design.

Availability

The US Mint manufacturers bullion coins based on monthly sales demand. This just in time, mint on demand model, has become common in government minting operations as a way to keep manufacturing costs low.

The American Gold Eagle is more popular with investors due great awareness because of its long mintage history. Monthly sales figures show that more investors buy American Gold Eagle coins, with an average of 18,000 coins for the 1 oz denomination, with even larger amounts in some of the fractional sizes such as the 1/10 oz and 1/4 oz coins.

Monthly sales figures for the American Gold Buffalo average around 14,500 coins.

Both of these coins are backed by the US Mint. Current year coins are readily available from online bullion dealers and coin stores throughout the country. It is important to note that when shopping for gold coins, the dealer premiums on current year coins are typically higher than those in the secondary market, due to premium increases from the US Mint.

Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on individual preferences regarding purity, design, and investment goals. Whether you prefer the historical significance and durability of the Gold Eagle or the pure, high-quality gold of the Gold Buffalo, both coins represent a valuable addition to any investment portfolio.

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US Mint Coin Sales Surge in June

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US Mint sales reports show a sharp increase American Eagle gold coins in June.

According to reports, the US Mint sold 26,000 1 oz gold eagles, a 33% increase over the May bullion sales of 19,500 coins.

Sales of 1/10 oz American Eagle gold coins were up roughly 29%, with 36,000 sold compared with 26,500 the previous months.

Sales remain strong for the American Gold Buffalo, with mint reports showing 18,000 1 oz bullion coins sold during June.

US Mint Gold Coin Demand

The US Mint uses a “just in time” method of manufacturing when issuing gold coins. Gold coins are minted based on monthly sales demand from investors. The Mint provides monthly sales reports that show the total number of coins minted in each of the standard denominations.

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US Mint to issue DC Comics Commemorative Coins

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The United States Mint has announced a first of its kind collaboration with DC Comics to launch a new series of collectible coins and medals celebrating DC comic book art.

The new series will debut during the Summer of 2025 kick off with Superman, Batman, and Wonder Woman. The series will feature three additional DC characters per year in 2026 and 2027.

The public is invited to vote for the DC Super Heroes they would like to see included in the series. Voting will be open from July 10 to August 11, 2024.

This collectible series will include 24-karat gold coins, .999 fine silver medals, in addition to non-precious metal (clad) medals.

To participate in the voting, you can complete the survey found at the bottom of the Comic Art page on the US Mint website. Follow the instructions in the survey and select the characters you would like to see featured in future years.

DC Comics was founded in 1934 as National Allied Publications and is one of the oldest comic book publishers globally. Its rich history and iconic characters make it a natural fit for this collaboration with the Mint.

The United States Mint has a longstanding tradition of issuing commemorative coins and medals that honor American values, icons, and significant historical moments. This new venture continues that tradition by celebrating the cultural impact of comic book art.

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Upcoming Los Angles Area Coin Shows

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Coin shows are events where coin collectors, dealers, and enthusiasts gather to buy, sell, trade, and learn about coins and other numismatic items. They are also events that will have local precious metals dealers from the Los Angeles area onsite.

In the Los Angeles area, you can usually score great deals on hard to find numismatics and collectibles and these events are essential hubs for the numismatic community with a variety of activities and opportunities. Some are small local gatherings, while others are large international conventions.

Southern California Coin Shows

Van Nuys Coin Show

June 23, 2024 – Van Nuys Coin Show – Van Nuys Masonic Hall – 14750 Sherman Way – Van Nuys, CA 91405 Directions


The Van Nuys Coin Show is a staple event for the numismatic community in the central San Fernando Valley. The exact year of its inception is not specified, but it has built a reputation over time for its consistency and the quality of its offerings.

North County Monthly Coin Show

July 7, 2024 – North County Monthly Coin Show – Embassy Suites Anaheim Hills – 3100 East Frontera, Anaheim, CA 92806


The North County Monthly Coin Show is a popular event held in Anaheim that caters to coin collectors, dealers, and enthusiasts. Investors and collectors can find a variety of dealers and sellers to buy, sell, and trade coins and other numismatic items. This show is held on the first Sunday of every month, except for months when the Buena Park Coin Show takes place.

Coinarama – San Diego

July 13-14, 2024 – Coinarama – San Diego – Liberty Station Conference Center – 2600 Laning Road – San Diego, CA 92106

Coinarama is one of San Diego’s premier coin shows, attracting coin collectors, dealers, and enthusiasts from across the region for more than 67 years. It provides a platform for buying, selling, trading, and learning about coins and other numismatic items.

Long Beach Expo

Sept 5, 2024 – Long Beach Expo – Long Beach Convention Center – 100 South Pine Ave – Long Beach, CA 90802

The Long Beach Expo has been operating since 1964, making it one of the longest-running coin shows in the country. The show has built a reputation for its high-quality exhibits and extensive range of numismatic offerings.
The show is organized by Collectors Universe, the parent company of Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS), one of the leading coin grading companies in the world.

Buena Park Coin Show

Sept 14, 2024 – Buena Park Coin Show – Retail Clerks Hall – 8550 Stanton Ave – Buena Park, CA 90620

The Buena Park Coin Show is a key event in the Southern California numismatic community. The show features over 50 dealers offering a wide range of U.S. and world coins, currency, tokens, medals, bullion, and numismatic supplies.

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How and Where to Sell Gold Coins

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Central Banks Continue to Buy Gold

Inheriting a collection of gold coins and bars can be a valuable and exciting opportunity. However, navigating the best ways to sell these items to get the highest possible value can be a daunting task.

There are various ways to sell gold coins and bars, including online dealers, local coin stores, gold refiners, online forums and social media, eBay, pawn shops, and “We Buy Gold” stores. We’ll also discuss the pros and cons of each method and provide a recommendation for the best way to sell your inherited gold items.

Selling to an Online Dealer

One of the most convenient and efficient ways to sell gold coins and bars is through an online dealer. These companies specialize in buying and selling precious metals, making the process quick and easy.

Reputable online dealers such as APMEX, JM Bullion, and Bullion Exchanges have streamlined processes.

The first step is to contact the dealer and provide details about the all of the items you wish to sell and the condition of each item. Some dealers may request photos of the items. It’s a good idea to get price quotes from at least 3 dealers.

The dealer will offer a preliminary quote based on the current spot gold price and any numismatic value.

If accepted, you’ll ship the gold to them, often with insurance and tracking provided. Upon verification of the items, payment is usually made via check, bank transfer, or PayPal.

Depending on the dealer, the price may not be fully locked-in until they are in receipt of your metals. Be sure to ask each dealer for details of their process.

Online dealers typically pay close to the spot price for gold coins and bars, with some offering a small premium for numismatic items.

Pros and Cons of Selling to an Online Dealer

  • Pros: Convenience of selling from home, simple process, competitive prices, transparency.
  • Cons: Shipping time and risks, potential for lowball offers, payment can be longer than local options.

Selling to a Local Coin Store

Local coin stores are a traditional option for selling gold coins and bars. Visit the store with your items for an appraisal. The store owner or clerk will assess the gold’s weight, purity, and condition, and provide an offer. Transactions are typically completed on the spot with immediate payment.

Pros and Cons of Selling to Local Coin Store

  • Pros: Local presence, in-person evaluation, face to face transactions allow for negotiation, quick transaction.
  • Cons: Lower prices, limited market exposure, avoids shipping risks.

Selling to a Gold Refiner

Gold refiners buy gold items to melt down and purify. Contact a refiner to get a quote based on the gold’s weight and purity. Ship your gold to the refiner, who will assay it to determine its exact content. After verification, the refiner pays you, usually 3% to 6% below the current spot price minus refining fees.

However, refiners may not be interested in numismatic items.

Pros and Cons of Selling to a Gold Refiner

  • Pros: Competitive prices, quick transaction.
  • Cons: Refining fees, Limited market for numismatic items, potential for lowball offers.

Selling on eBay

Selling gold coins and bars on eBay can be a way to reach a larger audience and potentially get a higher price for your items. Depending on any numismatic value or rarity of your gold coins, selling the item as an auction may yield a higher price.

Selling on eBay requires creating a listing, taking photos, and dealing with shipping and payment logistics. Additionally, the eBay Buyer Protection can cause problems for sellers if the buyer files any type of claim, real or fraudulent.

Additionally, eBay takes a percentage of the sale, plus accepting payment via PayPal comes with additional fees. To sell gold coins on eBay comes with the realization that the total fees may be up to 15%.

eBay also offers a service that purchases precious metals. However, it is a referral service that is handled by APMEX. If you’re considering this option, it may be worthwhile to also get a price quote directly from APMEX and compare the results.

Pros and Cons of Selling on eBay

  • Pros: Wide audience, potential for higher prices.
  • Cons: Listing and shipping logistics, eBay fees, potential for scams.

Selling to a Pawn Shop

Pawn shops are a quick and easy way to sell gold coins and bars. Bring your items to the shop for an appraisal. The pawnbroker will offer a price based on the current gold market.

However, Pawn shops typically pay significantly less than other methods. Pawn shops are in the business of making a profit, so they will offer you a price that allows them to resell your items at a markup.

Pros and Cons of Selling to a Pawn Shop

  • Pros: Quick transaction, no shipping required.
  • Cons: Significantly lower prices, limited market exposure, lack of expertise in numismatic values.

Selling to a “We Buy Gold” Store

“We Buy Gold” stores specialize in purchasing gold items are similar to pawn shops in that they offer quick transactions and less money for your gold.

These stores are often found in shopping malls or strip malls and are primarily interested in buying gold for its melt value.

Visit the store with your items and the staff will evaluate them and make an offer based on weight and purity.

Pros and Cons of Selling to “We Buy Gold” Store

  • Pros: Quick transaction, no shipping required.
  • Cons: Significantly lower prices, limited market exposure, lack expertise in numismatic values.

Key Takeaways When Selling:

  • Compare gold coin buy prices from multiple online dealers
  • Contact at least 3 to 5 different dealers or brokers to receive quotes or appraisals.
  • Confirm in writing with each dealer when their price is locked in, the spot gold price price used in creating the quote, any dealer premiums or commission and other pertinent details such as shipping or handling fees.

FindBullionPrices.com can help find the best place to sell gold coins for the highest price. We track the “buy back price” of various US Mint gold coins and others from an assortment of online dealers.

The most common include the American Eagle 1 oz Gold Coin, the American Buffalo 1 oz Gold coin and the .

We also track the buy back prices of fractional American Eagle Gold coin series including the 1/10 oz, 1/2 oz and 1/4 oz denominations, as well as Canadian 1 oz Gold Maple Leaf Coin. If there are other gold coins or bars that you’d like us to track, send a request via our contact form.