Physical gold · Informed buying
Buy gold
Know the seller.
Know the total cost.
A good gold purchase starts with the seller, the product, and the full price—not a prediction about the market. Use this guide to explore five places to buy physical gold, then compare the same coin or bar before committing.
Five places to explore
Choosing a reputable gold seller
Look for a seller with a verifiable business identity, clear product specifications, written payment and delivery terms, and a responsive support team. A recognizable brand is a starting point for research, not a substitute for checking the terms of your particular order.
This is a research starting point, not a ranking, independent dealer audit, or guarantee of reputation, authenticity, price, or future service. Summaries describe the sellers’ published offerings. GoldKnows does not sell gold or handle purchases; links go directly to the sellers without affiliate tracking parameters. Logos identify their respective owners and do not imply a partnership or endorsement.
Online precious-metals dealer
APMEX
apmex.comAPMEX offers a broad catalog of gold coins and bars alongside silver, platinum, and collectible coins. Its gold selection includes widely recognized mint issues such as American Eagles, American Buffalos, and Canadian Maple Leafs, as well as bars in multiple sizes. Product browsing, educational resources, and a sell-to-us service make it a useful place to compare bullion formats.
Before you order
Distinguish ordinary bullion from collectible or limited-edition products. Compare the exact weight, mint, condition, payment method, and delivered price rather than assuming every item carries the same premium.
Bullion-focused online shopping
SD Bullion
sdbullion.comSD Bullion sells gold coins and bars, silver bullion, and other precious metals. Its online storefront displays quantity-based pricing and identifies payment categories such as check or wire, helping buyers compare the cost of a specific order. The site also provides spot-price references, educational content, and a service for selling metals back to the company.
Before you order
Use the price for your actual quantity and payment method. A headline “as low as” price may apply to a larger order or a different payment option; confirm shipping and any applicable charges before checkout.
Dealer-assisted purchasing
Miles Franklin
milesfranklin.comMiles Franklin offers gold, silver, platinum, and palladium, with gold products including government-minted coins and bullion bars. The company’s website emphasizes telephone ordering and also describes precious-metals storage and IRA-related services. It is an option to research if you prefer discussing product availability and order details with a representative.
Before you order
Request a written, itemized quote and confirm the price-lock, payment, delivery, and resale terms. If you are considering storage or an IRA, compare the separate provider fees and consult an independent qualified adviser.
Gold, silver & storage services
Battalion Metals
battalionmetals.comBattalion Metals provides an online storefront for physical gold and silver, including coins and bars. Its website also links to metals storage, a storage-cost calculator, consultations, and shipping information. Buyers can use those resources to compare direct delivery with the company’s advertised storage options.
Before you order
Verify current inventory, the complete purchase price, and delivery timing. For stored metals, ask who holds the metal, how ownership is documented, what insurance covers, and what withdrawal or ongoing fees apply.
Membership retailer
Costco
costco.comCostco offers selected physical-gold products through its U.S. retail website, including one-ounce PAMP gold bars. It is a different shopping model from a dedicated bullion dealer: members compare the products currently offered rather than a specialist’s full coin-and-bar catalog. Availability, pricing, order limits, and delivery eligibility can vary by item.
Before you order
Check membership requirements and the individual listing before buying. The PAMP listing reviewed states that the item is non-refundable and not eligible for price adjustments, with purchase limits and delivery restrictions. Do not assume Costco’s usual return policy applies to gold.
Make the comparison count
A short checklist before you buy
Compare like for like
Match fine-gold weight, mint or refiner, condition, and packaging. A collectible coin and a standard bullion bar can have very different premiums.
Calculate the delivered cost
Compare the full checkout price, including payment fees, shipping, insurance, and applicable tax. Record the spot price at the same time so the comparison is meaningful.
Check the business and the terms
Verify the official domain, business contact details, recent complaint history, and written fulfillment and cancellation policies. Avoid pressure to rush or promises of guaranteed gains.
Plan for storage and resale
Consider secure storage and insurance before delivery. Ask what a dealer would pay to buy the same product back and whether selling involves minimums or fees.
CFTC and FINRA: questions to ask before buying physical metals (opens in a new tab)