Should You Invest in Gold Bars or Gold Coins?

When the time comes to invest in gold, bullion is often discussed. Many people make the mistake of believing that all gold bullion comes in the form of gold bars. As a result, when people are advised to buy gold bullion, bar sales rise dramatically.

But gold bullion can be found in many forms. One of the most popular is in the form of coins. There are plenty of gold bullion coins on the market, such as the American eagle gold coins.  These were minted specifically for the purpose of making gold collectible, in a form that could also represent its full value. 

But the real question is "why are so many people more interested in gold coins than bars these days?"

It is true that many investors are more interested in gold bullion, typically in 1 ounce increments, like what is found in some gold coins. It's easy to measure and also easy to transport. Plenty of people are worried about what the future holds, and want to be able to have something of value on hand that they can take with them, if the need arises. 

Some people also feel that gold coins are easier to sell than bars. If you're buying gold as an investment, it's important to make sure that you can get cash out of it quickly whenever your moment of need arises. Whether that moment is during your retirement, or during a crisis isn't all that important. The main thing you want to know is that you'll be able to turn that gold into something of value when you need it.

Gold bullion selling is fairly simple. It can be done through brokerages (for a fee, of course), online, and scrap gold can be sold in envelopes through the mail (though this is far from the most preferred method of selling gold).

Gold coin investment opportunities are easy to find. Whether it's eBay or late night infomercials, there is no shortage of opportunities to buy gold coins. You can even buy gold coins on television shopping channels.

Does this mean that investing in gold bars is bad?

Absolutely not! Gold bullion bars rock as far as investments go - depending on why you're investing. People have different goals for their investments. Some people like their large nest egg situated in security vaults, or conveniently tucked away in safety deposit boxes. It's comforting for them to know that their pile of gold is growing in value with every passing day, and that they will retire comfortably as a result.

These are the people who aren't looking for fast action to cash in, or instant liquidity in moments of need. They're investing for the long haul and find gold to be a sure bet of rising values today and down the road.

Whatever your reason for investing, gold bullion, in coins or bars is a solid investment to consider. You can begin by exploring familiar standards like the Canadian maple leaf gold coin, or Kitco gold bullion until you get your feet wet and are ready to branch out.