How to Invest in Precious Metals

When it comes to preserving wealth, precious metals have stood the test of time. They’ve been a store of value for centuries, weathering wars, recessions, inflation, and everything in between. But if you’re just getting started, the idea of investing in gold, silver, platinum—or any metal—can feel a little overwhelming.

Let’s break it down.

Why Precious Metals?

Precious metals offer something most modern assets can’t: tangible value. They’re not just numbers on a screen or digital assets in a portfolio. You can hold them. Store them. Pass them on.

At Monument Metals, we’ve served thousands of investors, from first-time buyers to seasoned collectors, who’ve turned to metals to diversify their portfolios, hedge against inflation, or simply prepare for uncertain times. Precious metals provide a level of stability that can complement more volatile assets like stocks or real estate.

Step 1: Know Your “Why”

Before you buy your first ounce, ask yourself:

Why are you investing in metals?

• Wealth Preservation? Gold is often the go-to here.
• Portfolio Diversification? A mix of gold and silver might make sense.
• Hedge Against Inflation or Dollar Weakness? Again, gold plays a key role.
• Tactical Short-Term Trading? Silver and platinum have more price movement and volatility.

Your objective will guide what metals you choose and how you hold them.

Step 2: Choose Your Metal

Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Gold – The most popular, globally recognized, and often used as a long-term hedge. Ideal for stability and liquidity.
• Silver – More affordable and accessible, but bulkier and more volatile in price. Often preferred for smaller budgets or more active investing.
• Platinum & Palladium – Industrial demand drives these metals. Higher risk, but potential for stronger gains in the right market cycle.

Step 3: Decide on Form — Coins, Bars, or Rounds?

• Government-Issued Coins (like the American Gold Eagle or Silver Maple Leaf) offer recognition and easy resale.
• Bars and Rounds offer lower premiums per ounce which is more metal for your money.
• IRA-Eligible Metals need to meet purity standards and be stored with an approved custodian if you’re using retirement funds.

At Monument Metals, we carry all three, carefully selected for authenticity, purity, and competitive pricing.

Step 4: Understand Pricing and Premiums

One of the most common questions we get is:

Why does gold cost more than the spot price?

That difference is called the premium, and it covers minting, distribution, and supply/demand dynamics. Premiums vary depending on:

• The type of product
• Market volatility
• Supply chain conditions

We work hard to keep our prices low and transparent, so you know exactly what you're paying and why.

Step 5: Store It Securely

Once you buy, you’ll need to store your metals.

Options include:

• Home safes
• Bank safe deposit boxes
• Professional vault storage (great for higher net-worth investors or IRA holdings)

We also offer guidance on insured storage options if needed.

Step 6: Buy from a Trusted Dealer

This one’s personal for me. I started Monument Metals to be the kind of dealer I’d want to buy from myself...honest, competitive, and committed to long-term relationships.

Whether you’re buying $100 in silver or $100,000 in gold, you deserve:

Authentic, tested products

Secure, discreet shipping

Clear, helpful customer service

That’s what we’ve built our reputation on.

Ready to Get Started?

If you’ve been waiting for the right time to start investing in precious metals, you’re not alone. With inflation concerns, market uncertainty, and increasing demand, we’re seeing more investors than ever turning to gold and silver.

When you're ready, we're here to help. No pressure. Just honest answers and quality metals—delivered straight to your door. 

You can always check out our latest precious metals deals here.