Why Precious Metals Should Be Part of Your Portfolio
Family Offices, Advisors, and Investors have been investing in precious metals since the prohibition of owning physical gold was lifted in 1974. Since that time, gold and silver have risen in value, and not only has the private sector started investing in coins and bars, but the U.S. Government and other governments have been buying up gold and silver for their reserves.
The same reason governments and home offices purchase gold, so should you. Having a stable investment that can hedge against inflation while appreciating in value is important for every portfolio. When an investor purchases physical precious metals they are taking the risk of the stock market out of their portfolio. Having a diversified portfolio means not only that you buy a variety of stocks, bonds, and mutual funds, but also you diversify in other businesses, investment opportunities, physical assets, or rare collectibles.
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When you purchase physical gold and silver you diversify and hedge inflation. As the US dollar or any other fiat currency declines your gold can hedge that decline in purchasing power with an asset that can stabilize and appreciate. Banks and Governments have been stocking gold to promote stability against their fiat. The investment allows them the stability to lend money and have the backing necessary to make investments and loans.
Five Reason To Own Precious Metals:
- Gold and Silver Coins and Bars are bought and sold around the world. You can liquidate or use your gold and silver anywhere in the world.
- Hedge Inflation
- Recession Proof
- Tax Advantage - when investing in gold or silver IRA
- Not impacted by the Volatile Stock Market
Therefore, investing in Gold or Silver should be considered an alternative investment option by all investors. The higher the net worth the more diversification you may have in alternative investments. Holding all your apples in one basket may have a negative impact on your portfolio when you are ready to retire. Look to stable, recession and inflation-proof opportunities, like physical Gold and Silver for your portfolio.
US Mint History
The United States Mint was established in 1792 under President George Washington. Since its founding, the mint has produced millions of dollars worth of coins each year. Today, the mint produces circulating U.S. coins, commemorative coins, bullion coins, proof sets, and numismatic items. The United States Mint is the official producer of all U.S. coinage, including the American Eagle gold and silver coins. The United States Mint is a government agency that issues legal tender coinage for the United States federal government and other countries worldwide. It is one of three governmental entities authorized to produce coins (the Bureau of Engraving and Printing and the Department of Treasury).
What You Need To Know About The United States Mint
What are the types of coins made?
Circulating Coins
This type of coin is used as currency. They circulate throughout the country and can be used at stores or banks. According to the United States Mint, “circulating coins are struck from specially prepared blanks, which are then polished, cut, and finished with special dies before they are sent out into the field.” However, the United States Mint also offers collectors and investors coins and medals that are not intended for circulation because these coins have a higher value than their face value.
Commemorative Coins
These coins commemorate events such as holidays, anniversaries, birthdays, sports championships, military victories, etc. The United States Mint says that these coins are designed to honor critical historical events, people, places, or things. Accordingly, the mint will make a limited number of these coins available to the public. Therefore, if you want to own a commemorative coin, it is best to purchase them early. You may also consider purchasing a commemorative coin when it is first released. This way, you will get authentic cash guaranteed to be rare. However, some commemorative coins are never issued.
Bullion Coins
Bullion coins are designed to contain a large amount of precious metal. Bullion coins are not meant to be circulated but are kept in safe deposit boxes. Bullion coins are popular among investors because they offer an opportunity to invest in a commodity such as gold or silver without worrying about storing it safely. Accordingly, bullion coins are usually more expensive than regular circulating coins. Bullion coins are more valuable than circulating coins. For example, a $5 gold coin is worth much more than a $5 circulating coin. Therefore, if you buy a $5 gold coin, you will receive a lot more money than if you had purchased a $5 circulating coin instead. In general, the circulated coins are worth their face value.
Proof Sets
Proof sets are collectible sets of coins that are packaged together in a display case. Proof sets are often sold through coin dealers or on eBay. Proof sets are typically composed of a few different types of coins. For example, a proof set might consist of a small quantity of Morgan Dollars, Lincoln cents, and Roosevelt dimes.
Proof sets are beneficial for collecting coins because they allow collectors to see how different currencies look next to each other. Proof sets are also helpful for beginners just starting to learn about coins. Because proof sets are so affordable, they are perfect for teaching new collectors about the history of the United States. They are sold in mint condition and are guaranteed by the US Mint. Proof sets are very similar to uncirculated coins as they are popular among collectors.
How Many Mints Are in The U.S.?
The United States has four active mints. They Include;
Philadelphia Mint
Located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, this mint is responsible for producing circulating coins. Thomas Jefferson started them in 1801. This mint also has bullion coins. This mint also produces some commemorative coins. According to the United States Mint, “The Philadelphia Mint began operations on April 3, 1793, when Congress passed legislation authorizing the first minting facility in the nation.” The benefits of operating a mint in Philadelphia include access to raw materials, skilled labor, and a ready market. However, there are disadvantages to running a mint in Philadelphia. For example, the city is far from most major cities in the United States. Also, Philadelphia is known for its high crime rate.
San Francisco Mint
Located in San Francisco, California, this mint is responsible for producing circulating coins. President James Buchanan started the San Francisco Mint in 1861. This mint does not create any commemorative coins. According to the United States Mint, “The San Francisco Mint opened in 1854 and operated until 1933. During World War II, the mint resumed production of circulating coins but ceased operation after the war ended. In 1946, the mint reopened and continued to operate until 1967, when it closed permanently.” The pros and cons of operating a mint in San Francisco have been debated since the establishment of the mint. One of the main advantages of employing a mint in this city is that it is close to many other major cities in the United States. Another advantage is that the city has a good economy. However, one disadvantage is that the city is prone to earthquakes.
West Point Mint
This mint was established in West Point, New York, in 1838. It is the only mint in the world that operates year-round. The. President Martin Van Buren started West Point Mint. This mint is responsible for producing all circulating coins except for the Presidential Dollars. According to the United States Mint, “In addition to being America’s oldest continuously operating mint, the West Point Mint is home to the Army’s premier coinage plant.” The West Point Mint is the only mint in North America that can strike gold, silver, copper, nickel, bronze, and zinc. The benefits of operating a mint at West Point include the ability to strike precious metals. There are also many advantages to utilizing a mint in West Point. One of the main reasons this mint is so popular is because of the location. West Point is located near the Hudson River. This river provides accessible transportation for raw materials. Another reason why this mint is so successful is that it is the only mint in America that strikes gold.
Denver Mint
Located in Denver, Colorado, this mint is responsible for producing circulating coins. President William McKinley started the Denver Mint. This is the second mint in the country to strike gold. According to the United State Mint, “The Denver Mint was founded in 1859 as the first western mint. Located in Denver, Colorado, the mint struck gold, silver, copper, and nickel coins for circulation until 1968, when it became the last U.S. Mint to cease striking gold coins.” The Denver Mint is the only mint that produces both circulating and commemorative coins. The benefits of operating a coin mint in Denver include the ability to strike gold. Another advantage is that the city is located near several large cities. This mint has been rated one of the best in the United States because of its high-quality products.
Organizational Structure Of The U.S. Mint
The U.S. Mint is part of the Department of Treasury. The President appoints the Secretary of the Treasury with the advice and consent of the Senate. They are assisted by the Undersecretary of the Treasury, who the President sets. The Undersecretary of the treasury oversees the day-to-day operations of the department. The Undersecretary reports directly to the Secretary of the Treasury. The Director of the U.S. Mint is appointed by the President and confirmed by the Senate. The Director is responsible for overseeing the daily activities of the mint. The Director of the Mint reports directly to the Secretary. The Director of the Mint appoints the Deputy Director of the Mint. The deputy director is responsible for assisting the Director of the Mint in carrying out his duties. However, he does not have any authority over the mint. The Chief Engraver is appointed by the President and confirmed by the Senate, responsible for designing new coins and dies.
Authorized Purchasers
The authorized purchasers of the U.S. Mint coins are the public. They may purchase these coins through authorized dealers. These dealers must be registered with the U.S. Mint. There are two types of dealers: wholesale and retail. Wholesale dealers buy large quantities of coins and sell them to retailers. Retailers purchase small amounts of coins from wholesalers. Retailers usually sell their goods to consumers. To become an authorized dealer, you must apply to the U.S. Mint. You will need to provide proof of your identity and address. If you are approved, you will receive a license that allows you to buy and sell U.S. Mint coins.
Coins Production Process
The production process of the U.S. Mint coins begins with the design phase. During this stage, the engravers create designs on the coins. After the designs are created, they are sent to the engraving facility, where they are engraved onto the cash. The coins are then sent to the packaging facility and packaged into boxes. Finally, the coins are shipped to the distribution center. At the distribution center, the coins are sorted and packed into bags. Each bag contains one type of coin. The bags are then sent to the post office. Once the coins reach the post office, they are mailed to the customers.
Gold Depositories
The U.S. Mint operates three depository facilities. These facilities store all the gold used to make the coins. The facilities are located at Fort Knox, West Point, and Philadelphia. The U.S. Mint uses the gold stored at these facilities to produce the coins. The gold is melted down and recycled. It is also used to make other items such as jewelry. According to the U.S. Mint, the gold reserves at the three depository facilities are worth $1.2 trillion. This means that if the real gold were sold, it would generate more than $3.7 trillion. However, the U.S. Mint has no plans to sell its gold reserves because it believes selling them could cause inflation.
Final Thoughts On The United States Mint
The U.S. Mint produces coins for both domestic and international markets. The U.S. Mint is responsible for paying circulating coins for the United States. The U.S. Mint also has commemorative coins for special events. The U.S. Mint is part of the Department of Treasury. Its primary purpose is to ensure that the government can pay its bills.
The U.S. Mint is run by the Secretary of the Treasury, nominated by the President. However, the U.S. mints have helped the country to grow economically. The U.S. Mint provides jobs to many people. The U.S. Mint is also responsible for recycling gold.
