In these days of stocks, mutual funds and FOREX trading, people seem to have put coins and coin prices on the back burner. What is more, in today's world of currencies, credit cards and online shopping, coins simply do not seem to be on anyone's mind.

Are we ignoring the importance of owning coins that used to be the time tested medium for conducting trade and creating wealth? It is high time we start focusing on the value of owning coins for more reasons than one. To start with, here are some compelling reasons why owning coins make sense.

A Sound Hedge Against The Dollar

If you track the movement of the USD, you will note that it has had a volatile movement during the past 5 years. The reasons are not far to seek. The rising US government deficits, the cost of prolonged war in the Gulf and the on-going war in Afghanistan, in addition to the huge trade deficit.

There are genuine concerns on how the world's oil reserves will pan out and speculation is rife that unstable crude prices will rule in the near term. In addition, neither stocks nor currencies are having a stable run. In sharp contrast, look at the movement of gold prices. From around USD 300 per ounce during early 2000, the price today has steadily increased to nearly USD 1,250, a whopping increase of more than 400 per cent.

Safe Haven During Times Of Uncertainty

The global economic slowdown still seems to be an endless tunnel. The latest figures on unemployment are not providing cheer either. The recessionary trend continues to haunt investors. Under these circumstances, it is safe to assume that precious metals will continue to be a sound investment.

Prospects Of Handsome Appreciation

No doubt, speculating on the prices of anything be it, stocks, currency or gold, is a hazardous venture. Yet, considering the past trends, an investor can safely take a cue as to what the future movements will be. Gold or for that matter, any of the precious metals are, in all probability, on the way up. Anyone who has been an avid watcher of coin prices will never say that investment in coins has been a cause of regret.

How To Buy Coins

Fortunately, there are convenient ways for you to purchase either gold coins or coins of other precious metals like silver, platinum or palladium. Apart from market reports, you have coin price guides to assist you in buying coins.

As a typical case, when you make a purchase and payment is made to a bank or depository, the custodian will inform receipt of metal by sending you a Commodity Transfer Notice. Thereafter, the US Postal Service makes the personal delivery by Registered and Insured mail.

Selling is easy too. However, getting to know the actual coin prices can be a tricky task. Even though the net provides you with free coin prices, a coin prices guide can be just an approximation. Coin prices can vary when you actually get a quotation from a seller.