Your First Gold Purchase: Tips, Types, and How to Get Started

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Are you thinking about adding gold to your financial journey but are not sure where to begin? Maybe you’ve seen headlines about rising gold prices, or perhaps a family member passed down a coin or two that sparked your curiosity. For many, gold represents both security and opportunity, yet the idea of buying it can feel overwhelming. The truth is, getting started with gold doesn’t have to be complicated. This guide will break down the basics, explain your options, and help you avoid common mistakes along the way.

Why People Buy Gold

Gold has been treasured for thousands of years for a reason. It is durable, scarce, and has value that spans cultures and generations. People buy gold for many reasons:

  • Wealth preservation: Gold holds its value and often rises during times of economic uncertainty.

  • Portfolio diversification: Owning gold can balance investments in stocks, bonds, and real estate.

  • Collecting and enjoyment: Some buyers love the history and beauty of gold coins and bars.

Whether you are investing or collecting, gold is a timeless asset that can be as exciting as it is valuable.

Types of Gold You Can Buy

When it comes to buying gold, there are several types to consider. Each has its own charm and purpose:

  1. Gold Coins
    Gold coins are popular because they are easy to buy, sell, and store. Examples include:

  2. Gold Bars
    Gold bars offer a pure and straightforward way to own gold. They come in sizes ranging from 1 gram to 1 kilogram or more. Bars are ideal for serious investors who want bulk gold at competitive prices.

  3. Fractional Gold
    If you are starting small, fractional gold coins or bars can be a great way to get your feet wet. These are smaller portions of a full ounce, perfect for beginner collectors or investors with limited funds.

  4. Numismatic Gold
    These coins are prized not only for gold content but also for rarity, history, and condition. Examples include old Liberty Head $20 coins or Saint-Gaudens coins. Keep in mind that numismatic coins often require more research and a bit of luck to find a great deal.

What to Know Before You Buy

Buying gold can be straightforward if you know a few important details:

  • Fineness: Gold is measured in karats or fineness.  24-karat gold is .9999 fine. 22-karat gold is .999 fine. The Canadian Mint Gold Maple Leaf is .9999 fine and the Gold American Eagle is .999 fine.

  • Weight: Gold is typically measured in troy ounces. One troy ounce is 31.1035 grams. Make sure you know the size of the coin or bar before you buy.

  • Certification: For coins, certification from a professional grading service like CACG, PCGS, or NGC guarantees authenticity and grade. This can be very important for collectible coins.

  • Pricing: Gold prices fluctuate daily. Dealers charge a premium above the spot price for coins and bars. Premiums vary based on rarity, demand, and type of gold.

Buying Gold Online or With a Blanchard Portfolio Manager

At Blanchard, we make it easy for you to buy gold in the way that fits your style. Some people prefer the speed and independence of using our website, while others enjoy the guidance of a dedicated portfolio manager. Both approaches connect you with authentic, carefully sourced gold — it just depends on how hands-on you want to be.

  • Using Our Website
    Many new buyers love the convenience of browsing Blanchard’s online inventory. Our site offers detailed product descriptions, real-time pricing, and secure checkout so you can shop confidently from the comfort of home. Whether you are looking for American Gold Eagles, historic pre-1933 U.S. gold coins, or simple bullion bars, you can explore at your own pace and build your collection on your terms.
  • Speaking With a Portfolio Manager
    If you prefer a more personal touch, our portfolio managers are only a phone call away. They take the time to understand your goals, whether that means creating a strategy for wealth preservation or simply starting small with a few coins. Portfolio managers also help answer questions about rarity and certification and provide insights into how gold can fit into your broader financial picture.

The best part? You do not have to choose one or the other. Many clients use the website for convenience while also leaning on a portfolio manager for strategy, big-picture planning, and market insights.

Storing Your Gold Safely

Once you buy gold, keeping it safe is essential. You have a few options:

  • Home storage: A high-quality safe is a good start. Keep your safe in a discreet location.

  • Bank safety deposit boxes: Convenient but may have access limitations.

Tips for New Gold Buyers

  1. Start small. You do not have to buy a kilo of gold on your first try.

  2. Learn the lingo. Terms like bullion, premium, karat, and spot price will become second nature.

  3. Research dealers. Reputation matters, so stick with trusted sources like Blanchard.

  4. Avoid get-rich-quick schemes. Gold grows wealth slowly over time.

  5. Enjoy the process. Buying gold can be as fun as it is smart.

Final Thoughts

Buying gold is not just about investing. It is about holding a piece of history, securing your wealth, and enjoying the beauty of one of the world’s most coveted metals. By understanding the basics, starting small, and choosing trusted dealers, anyone can confidently enter the world of gold.

Gold is more than a shiny metal. It is a gateway to history, wealth, and sometimes even a little sparkle in your day. If you’re ready to begin, call 1-800-880-4653 today to speak with a Blanchard Portfolio Manager who can help you choose the right gold for your goals. Start your gold journey and discover why collectors and investors alike have treasured it for centuries.