Commodities Mutual Funds

Professionally managed commodities mutual funds offer more diversity and potentially higher yields than solo investing in a single market. A mutual fund is an investment company which invests pooled assets from a group of shareholders with likeminded objectives and interests. Pooling resources enables shareholders to make larger, more diverse investments in both domestic and global markets. Open-ended mutual funds also offer shareholders more opportunities to realize returns on long-term investments, rather than taking a gamble on stocks which may not prove to be profitable. Contributions made to the fund are managed by a broker who is employed by the company to make safe, high-yield investments to diversify portfolios. Shareholders are paid dividends according to their proportion share in the fund. Commodities mutual funds are those companies which invest in naturally grown or cultivated consumer goods, such as crude oil, wheat, soybeans, sugar, cotton or livestock. Other commodities include precious metals such as gold, silver, and platinum; industrial ores; and natural materials harvested for building trades such as lumber and stone. The problem with investing in commodities futures is that the production and pricing of these kinds of goods depends on climatic, socioeconomic and political changes. When droughts, flooding, tornadoes and tropical storms upset the delicate ecosystem in and outside of the United States, crop yields are directly affected. Agricultural regions which suffer damage yield fewer crops; and that shortage creates an increased demand and higher prices in the stock market and the supermarket. The fact that commodities are so easily affected by the economy, weather and disease makes investing in futures a risky business. Commodities can fluctuate wildly within the same day or the same week. A highly volatile market plagued with bank mergers, takeovers and closures; an all-time high in housing foreclosures caused by irresponsible sub-prime lending and sky high adjustable rate mortgages; and a nation held hostage by an over-dependence on foreign oil may all have an adverse impact on commodities mutual funds. "The Lord knoweth the days of the upright: and their inheritance shall be for ever. They shall not be ashamed in the evil time: and in the days of famine they shall be satisfied" (Psalm 37:18-19).

Add to this volatile economic mix, the threat of crop loss due to global warming and abnormal weather patterns, and one can easily see why investing in agricultural products can present a formidable challenge. In spite of these challenges, the goal of experienced traders is to forecast when products will be plentiful, predict the best time to buy or sell, and research past performance and other economic indicators to successfully gauge potential profitability. But, investing in commodities mutual funds reduces a significant amount of risk because managers strive to diversify investments, choosing to purchase stock and securities in several companies representing various consumer goods. If a long hot summer fails to yield a good wheat crop, funds invested in lumber or other products might result in high yields; and the lion's share of company funds remains safe.

The risk of investing in commodities mutual funds is somewhat lessened because of federal requirements to provide full disclosure to shareholders and the general public. The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) requires that mutual funds publish an annual report, including past performance, the objectives of the fund, actual earnings, and charges or fees assessed shareholders. Prospective shareholders can log online to fund websites and download a current prospectus, or contact the investment firm by telephone or mail. Investors should look for companies which have a proven history of high performance, consistent high quality management, and portfolio diversification. Diversifying investments in commodities mutual funds is important in safeguarding shareholder investments in the event of an un-forseen dip in the market. Reviewing the company website and past trading decisions will give prospective shareholders a good idea about whether the fund is stable and where it is headed financially.

Crucial to an investor's decision to buy shares in commodities mutual funds is the mission and vision of the fund. Proponents of socially or environmentally responsible investing may not want to put money into companies which advocate hunting wild animals or dumping toxic waste into the nation's rivers and streams. Advocates of socially responsible investing will want to buy into funds which support human rights issues and denounce practices of racial or gender discrimination, genocide, or apartheid. For example, socially responsible shareholders may balk at investing in South African diamond mines which implement unfair and denigrating labor practices. Environmentally responsible investments are made in companies which advocate industries and innovative products which help protect endangered species and the environment. Funds which invest in green industries, such as biotechnology, sustainable agriculture, alternative fuels, and vehicles independent of foreign fuel may yield the highest returns, as global markets embrace efforts to save the planet.

Experienced fund managers, brokers, and traders may recommend buying shares in commodities mutual funds which invest heavily in precious metals, such as gold or platinum, which hold or increase in value; crude oil, currently the world's primarily source of fuel; and commodities-related to emerging green technologies. Going green might prove to be the most lucrative of several long-term emerging money making ventures. Shareholders should exercise patience in realizing returns on long-term investments in agricultural products whose value changes with the wind. But one thing is certain, just as seasons change, so does the economy; and those who can endure seasons of unfruitful investing will one day reap a bountiful harvest through perseverance. "Now He that ministereth seed to the sower both minister bread for your food, and multiply your seed shown, and increase the fruits of your righteousness;)" (II Corinthians 9:10).

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Buy Gold Bullion

There are some who buy gold bullion, or bars, as a means of future personal economic stability. There are many different methods for investing money for the future. While gold is currently experiencing a less than hot market, it continues to be the choice of investment for those who sense an uncertainty about the future economic state of America and the world. Now, with Treasury Inflation Protected Securities, precious metal investments have seen a decline. But, the truth is, if there should be a nation wide economic crash, having precious metals on hand would guarantee some type of trading medium. It is a good idea, if for no other reason than to understand the merit of investing in precious metals, to conduct a little research on the benefits of these types of investments and the challenges, as well. The Internet, a vast source on investments of every category, provides plenty of information for the novice to begin the search to buying gold bars. Portable and storable, precious metals make tangible investments that not only hold value, but could one day be quite useful if an economic disaster were to happen. When a consumer wants to invest and buy gold bullion, he or she is making a decision to put their money into a very stable market. When other investments sources are experiencing downward trends, those who are buying gold bars find that the prices only continue to increase. With this market there are generally no large swings and buying precious metals will certainly not be a get rich quick scheme. But, over the long-term investments into bullion or coins and jewelry will prove to be good strategies.

Currently, gold is showing to be more than a stable investment for long term strategies. To buy gold bullion now is to take part in an exciting market trend that looks to be a hedge against inflation. To make good choices about investment strategies, it may be wise to get knowledge about precious metals and why they fair so well in the markets. Working with an investment service or with a financial advisor is always advised, so those new to investments can have expert advice and guidance. There are also a few basic tips that can help consumers choose the best counsel, getting basic information on the precious metals beforehand.

Gold, the basis for certain currency, is the most popular choice of precious metal investments. To buy gold bullion is to buy a valuable commodity that is also the standard for the International Monetary Fund. Coins and different size certified bars are the most popular traded items, but there are investments that are made in the mining of this yellow precious metal and in jewelry. Measured in grams or Troy Weight, bullion coins and bars can be purchased as actual assets and kept in the home or in a bank vault, giving the owner a valuable item that could be used as to sell or trade.

However, buying gold bars as a means of investment strategies will also have its challenges. Precious metals do not pay off in dividends, and therefore are subject to prices rising - to be considered an investment. Being able to quickly liquefy precious metals is another problem. Finding a buyer for precious metals proves to be more challenging that finding sellers, online or through investment agencies.

Again, to purchase bullion is to purchase a long-term means for future stability, and not for earning dividends, or money. It is, a wise choice for those who understand economics, and these wise souls know that potentially, this investment could prove to be the only thing that stands during economic hardships or crashes. The Bible is clear about the motives of men and their desire for money. While buying gold bars may be a smart practice to safeguard against future woes, looking to increase wealth for the sake of upgrading a standard of living is not Biblical. "Only by pride cometh contention: but with the well advised is wisdom. Wealth gotten by vanity shall be diminished: but he that gathereth by labour shall increase." (Proverbs 13:11)

There are those who believe that our nation and world are headed in a direction that may lead to globally hard times. Natural disasters are increasing and there are rumors of wars throughout the Middle East. And, it seems that America has become the despised enemy of many Muslim countries. Those who read these signs as indicators of a troubled future believe that buying gold bars and coins is to invest in future trade mediums. If there were a complete fall of the American dollar, or if this nation were to experience a stock market catastrophe, then having gold on hand could provide a means for providing for family. It is certainly an investment worth considering, whatever the reasoning. Log on to day and discover more about the basics to buy gold bullion.

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Silver Coin Prices

Silver coin prices are available for buying and selling on the Internet as the demand has risen to an all-time high. This precious metal is available online in the form of bullion, coins or bags. Bags contain a specific number of coins and bullion is usually sold based upon weight and size. It is possible to invest a portion of the precious metal in an Individual Retirement Account. An administrator can provide specific information on this type of investment and can be found on the Internet. Silver coin values can be accessed through the stock exchange daily. Factors that affect price are the difference between supply and demand. It can also be affected by changes in inflation, paper currencies, and interest rates. Silver is plentiful and precious but the least expensive in comparison to other precious metals. Silver coin values have risen even though the U.S. dollar has declined. Ways to invest in silver include bullion, mining stocks, mutual funds, coins, medallions, storage accounts or certificates, accumulation plans, future contracts, and options. Bullion must be stored but can easily be converted in cash. Mining stocks offer appreciation and yield dividends but require greater amounts of investments than bullion or coins. Mutual funds provide diversity with holdings of many companies but require greater investments than bullion. Silver coin prices are the least expensive and are easy to store as well as being easy to convert into cash. Medallions range in price and are easy to store and transport. Storage or certificate accounts require no storage but are not in possession by the owner. Accumulation plans usually have discounted commission fees but are not in possession by the owner. Future contracts have trading limitations but no storage risks. Options have the highest risks because they are less negotiable.

The metal is used in coins, jewelry, tableware, photography, electronics, and mirrors. The demand has risen recently, so silver coin prices and other items are worth more now than they have been for the last 20 plus years, making this an idea time to invest. Privately minted rounds carry all sorts of designs including automobiles, firearms, armed forces commemorative, and holidays, among others. Major coins in circulation were created in America, Canada, Australia, Britain, China, Mexico, New Zealand, and Zambia, among others. Silver jewelry has grown in popularity and can be found through many retailers online. Since silver is subject to corrosion through various exposures, many jewelers offer a cleaner that can make pieces look new again. There is cleaner available for tableware and other items that contain the precious element.

For the serious collector there is software available on the Internet that has numerous features to help one keep track of collections and values. Database information provides old, new, and rare values with silver coin prices and description data. There are different databases available for different countries or locations. Features of software include images and detailed grading, the ability to print collection value reports and an online tutorial is provided with unlimited technical support. This software could prove to be invaluable to serious collectors.

Mint state pieces in excellent condition are usually the best quality and have the highest silver coin values compared to others. In order for a piece to be considered valuable it should show little wear, no surface spotting, and still have luster. A piece can be considered in good condition even if it is heavily worn and some of the details are worn down. Check out some of the websites that offer information on what a piece is worth, along with price guide information. The main aspects to determining silver coin prices when collecting are rarity, condition and grade, bullion value, and demand. Paul in the New Testament mentioned silver and gold as part of a reference to healing, "And a certain man lame from his mother's womb was carried, whom they laid daily at the gate of the temple which is called Beautiful, to ask alms of them that entered into the temple; Who seeing Peter and John about to go into the temple asked an alms. And Peter, fastening his eyes upon him with John, said, Look on us. And he gave heed unto them, expecting to receive something of them. Then Peter said, Silver and gold have I none; but such as I have give I thee: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth rise up and walk" (Acts 3:2-6).

Industrial uses of the precious metal and the supply and demand associated with these uses can be found on the Internet. Available charts show comparisons for supplies gained from mine production, government sales, and scrap in comparison to the demand for industrial uses, photography, jewelry, tableware, and coins. It is interesting to read how the precious metal has been around since the 1400's and the rapid rise it has experienced in production worldwide. Information pertaining to silver coin values is available through many sites online along with ways to care for pieces so they will retain their value.

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Custom Made Coins

High quality custom made coins are used by businesses, individuals, governments, gaming commissions, sports associations, and private and public organizations. While the U.S. Mint produces primarily legal tender currency, Presidential and commemorative coinage; custom coin mints produce highly detailed coinage for awards, amusement and entertainment venues, promotional marketing and the military. Coins are carefully designed by skilled artisans to bear an exacting image of a person, building, animal, or insignia. Every detail is painstakingly executed to produce an accurate likeness of the original. Just as artisans finely craft accurate likenesses, God originally created man in His own image and likeness an exact replica of his character and nature. "And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness: and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth. So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them." (Genesis 1:26-27) The usage for specially designed, exactingly replicated and minted coins is almost limitless. Regulations for minting currency do not apply to made-to-order coinage production. Products generally have little monetary value, except items minted from precious metals or used in casinos. Specialty advertising businesses employ custom coin mint companies to produce coinage to market and promote corporations, small businesses, and other enterprises, usually emblazoned with a company logo or likeness of the CEO. Car dealers, advertising agencies, educational institutions, and retailers use coinage as sales tools, to reward students and faculty for academic and scholarly accomplishments, or as merchandising aids. In the athletic arena, logos or trademarks, likenesses, and lettering are engraved on medallions of almost any size to commemorate sporting events or place awards. Made-to-order coins in precious metal finishes, such as gold, silver and bronze are frequently used to grace the necks of Olympic champions. Lesser priced alloys, aluminum, oxidized and antiqued silver, or nickel are also impressive substitutes for more expensive awards.

Most notable are the military and government commendations given to honorable service men and women for exemplary performance. Medals of honor are fine examples of custom made coins, usually mounted with clamps, pins or ribbons for attachment to military uniforms. Local, state and federal governments frequently commission custom coin mint companies to design, hand sculpt, and strike multiple and one-of-a-kind works of art to commemorate historic events or depict new administrations. Banks, hospitals, sororities and fraternities, insurance agencies, labor unions, private and public clubs, and more can all use custom made coins to advertise services, commemorate significant events, or celebrate periodic milestones.

The gambling industry uses one-of-a-kind coinage in casinos at slot machines and at gaming tables. Instead of handling large amounts of cash, high- and low-rolling gamers purchase tokens or markers valued as inexpensively as $1 upwards to $500. Winnings can be redeemed without risk of theft of similar amounts of cash. Custom coin mint companies safeguard casino and gamer assets by employing the latest technology which prevents counterfeiting, shaving, stopping, or slugging slot machines. Casinos also use chips and tokens with embedded holograms to prevent counterfeiting and provide easy detection of legitimate tokens. Custom made coins for the gaming industry are minted with a high level of consistency and finely calibrated to withstand rigorous testing to detect counterfeiting.

The process for producing quality hand-crafted coinage begins with a piece of artwork enlarged to show as much detail as possible. Artisans may recommend submitting black and white vector (line) image drawings with clean, crisp details that are at least 400% to 600% larger than the proposed finished size. Artisans can also execute customers' artwork for an additional fee. Photographs of buildings or individuals to be engraved may also be helpful. Corporate logos should also be submitted with the drawings at enlarged sizes. Once the size, color, and finish have been selected, the type of engraving must be decided upon. Fully sculpted, deeply engraved or etched designs are more costly than low-relief designs with multiple levels or engravings with single-level raised lines. The type of engraving process, finish and color of metal are determined by the usage of each piece. Military awards and insignias tend to be designed in traditional, deeply etched bronzes for durability. Medallions widely distributed for marketing purposes may be produced more inexpensively using single-level raised lines on simulated metals.

Coinage mint companies generally provide proofs of finished artwork and designs prior to making custom metal dies from which coins are struck, stamped and minted. At the proofing stage, customers should either speak up or forever hold their peace. Any imperfections, misspelled words, or inaccuracies should be noted and corrected before custom dies are created for each side. Custom coin mint companies will then begin the die-striking process to produce the specific number ordered. Consumers should inquire about fees for making custom dies as part of an overall estimate for producing one-of-a-kind coinage.

Consumers may find companies that produce custom made coins online, through local telephone or business directories, or via specialty advertising companies, printers, and engravers. Because creating one-of-a-kind coinage is a lengthy and expensive process, most firms will require minimum quantity orders. Some mints may not deal directly with individual consumers for smaller orders, but may prefer to supply specialty houses. Specialty merchandisers, catalog companies, and sales reps should provide good quality samples, along with pricing and estimated delivery dates. Individuals and businesses should allow for mint production schedules and order well in advance of events and ceremonies when the coins will be presented. Above all, consumers should deal with reputable companies that offer replacement orders or refunds for production mistakes and lost or damaged orders, and those that have a record of timely delivery at affordable prices.

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Uncirculated Mint Sets

While uncirculated mint sets have been packaged by the United States government for over sixty years, there may be fewer of them than one might imagine. At times these uncirculated coin sets are purposely broken apart by coin dealers in order to satisfy customer needs. Many have been destroyed in this way. In fact, one fairly well known coin dealer is reported to have actually installed equipment to open their protective packaging, rather than have workers continue to do so by hand, lest they suffer from repetitive motion injuries! Some owners of these uncirculated mint sets have broken the collections themselves. Rather ironically, this is often because they wish to complete a certain collection of their own. Some coins were never minted for common or 'business strike'. For example, the 1970-D Kennedy half dollar was only available from the 1970 uncirculated mint sets. Therefore, the only way that a person could complete a collection of coins in this denomination would be either to break up their own mint set or buy the item from someone else who had done so. Breaking one up, of course, would only make sense if the value of the coin was worth more than the value of the set.

The original packaging of many of these uncirculated mint sets is not very sturdy, and suffers the effect of wear over time. Some collections were packaged in envelopes, whose color at times caused toning of the coins inside. Since there is a continued demand to some extent, (even just because new collectors take an interest each year in obtaining these items), it would seem that as time goes on, fewer of these older mint items will be available. So, if one does have uncirulated coin sets, keep them intact, especially if they are in their original packaging.

A person might easily confuse the concept of uncirculated mint sets with proof sets. However, they are very different. Both, of course, have never been in general circulation. Unlike proof coins, though, the coins displayed in uncirculated sets were usually not made with any special considerations given to the quality of the coins. Normal procedures were followed, unlike the preparation for proof coins, which may require attention to striking equipment or to the blanks used in fashioning the coins, even to the point of multiple strikes or special handling of materials in order to obtain the best quality strike. Therefore, the coins from uncirculated coin sets could display a variety of conditions. However, in general, such sets had probably been handled more carefully and were packaged at the mint, so the coins' conditons may have benefited at least somewhat from the additional attention. Proof coins, on the other hand, received attention at nearly every step in their production.

One move lately to further distinguish mint items from normal uncirculated coinage is that these newer uncirculated coin sets from the US Mint are given a special satin finish in order to make it easier to distinguish them from regular uncirculated coins. This is a wise move for several reasons. First, it helps to distinguish between the Mints' products, which makes them more desirable and sells more collections. Secondly, this discourages unscrupulous sellers from removing original coins which are in excellent condition and replacing them with less valuable coins. With the satin finish, this practice would be more readily apparent. If doubts persist in a buyer's mind before making a purchase, a skillful coin dealer could be consulted to evaluate a set and determine whether an item offered for sale was authentic. Likewise, a person wishing to sell his or her set could obtain authentication which could be a factor in the sale of the item.

The collections which the Mint produced from 1947 until 1958 were double mint sets. That is, they included two specimens of each coin produced from each mint (Denver, Philadelphia, and San Francisco). In 1965 to 1967, Special Mint Sets (SMS) were substituted. These contained samples of the coins from the cent through the half dollar. The items in these collections were of a higher quality than usual, and were almost 'Proof' in condition. The San Francisco Mint only minted coins through 1955, so those offered afterwards will not have any S coins.

Examining the offerings for uncirculated coin sets and various popular coin investments available on the websites of several coin dealers, it was easy to see how complex the hobby of coin collecting could become. It would take a certain amount of time to familiarize oneself with the many items available, even in the coinage of one's own country, in order to make an intelligent investment. Even after such a labor, there are no guarantees that the winds of the market will blow in a favorable direction so that any profit could be realized. Although one may have invested in coins as a hedge against financial insecurity, there is no promise that any coin will remain valuable or help provide for future needs. In contrast, these words from Isaiah 33:2 offer a sure foundation that one can build a life upon: O LORD, be gracious unto us; we have waited for thee: be thou their arm every morning, our salvation also in the time of trouble. Coin collecting can be an enjoyable and sometimes profitable hobby. Make sure that it does not become the pursuit and foundation of a life, though, for only God is able to completely fulfill such a position.

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US Silver Coins

Rare silver coins have been treasured by coin collectors, over the years, as these pieces continue to gain in value, regardless of how the current stock markets are faring. Currently, precious metal investments are up and the prices look to continue to climb. Historically, US silver coins and other precious metals gain interest when inflation looms or when currency wains. But, and interestingly, with the current forecasts that indicate a good economic trend globally, coin collections are expected to continue to be smart investments. Throughout history collectors of these rare tangible assets have loved buying, selling, and trading collections, but now interest nation wide is mounting. Many investors from diverse backgrounds are learning about coin collecting and adding US silver coins to financial portfolios. Perhaps the Internet has made coin trading simpler, and if anything more understandable, offering information that before took time and energy to research. There are some tricks of the trade to be studied before jumping into a buying frenzy with any type of coin or collection, so the curious and interested will need to get online and read about what makes certain pieces more valuable and how the markets are faring today.

Stock market experts and financial guides suggest that investors place a minimum of ten percent of their investments into tangible assets. Actual things that can be touched, seen, and traded are part of an over-all investment strategy because these investments seem to be the safer strategies that can be liquidated if needed. US silver coins and other precious metals investments will not be fast trading, get ahead quick investments, but they will, with time, slowly and surely rise in value. And, should there be some type of economic, natural, or man-inflicted disaster that turns financial systems upside down, having the stability of precious metals can mean having the means to trade for necessities, should there be unfortunate circumstances. Whatever the reason, rare silver coins, and gold as well, are worth looking into, bringing a certain level of stability to any investment strategy.

There are two basic methods to buying, selling, and trading precious metals. In the coin markets, thousands of pieces are bought and sold daily. As people discover old or lower mintage pieces within family possessions, they put these pieces on the market to sell. Or, as families need to liquefy, they sell US silver coins to meet needs. But, there are collectors who actively trade coins to complete family collections, which are more valuable. One trader may trade a coin that is very valuable to receive a coin of lesser value, but one that completes a collection, increasing the worth of the collection. Obviously, knowing something about this market is essential before jumping in. Those interested will need to conduct a fare amount of study into precious metals markets, but this can be a fun and exciting course of study, as rare silver coins are identified and collected.

Investigating the precious metals market can begin online. The Internet is simply loaded with information on all types of investment strategies and there are agencies that post daily reports on the precious metals markets. Many different coin brokers and agencies offer tutorials and guidance through websites and some are willing to speak with individuals. Starting any coin investment activity with a professional agency that can authenticate purchases and trades may be a wise strategy. Numismatists, or coin collectors, have always taken careful time to seriously investigate and grade collections and pieces. Once the beginner starts to learn more about precious metals and trading, he or she will definitely become a coin collector enthusiast!

The Bible explains that we are to be hard working and prudent, but we are not to invest our lives or hearts into the glitters of wealth. God allows his people to use these tangible items as means of trading and for His glory, but they are never to take His place in heartfelt devotion. His Word also speaks of the consequences of the love of money. "They shall cast their silver in the streets, and their gold shall be removed: their silver and gold shall bot be able to deliver them in the day of the wrath of the Lord: they shall not satisfy their souls, neither fill their bowels: because it is the stumbling block of iniquity." (Ezekiel 7:19) When making investments into US silver coins, keep a godly and healthy perspective!

When working with a dealer to purchase rare silver coins, be sure and investigate the dealer's background and history. Working with a reliable broker will be important. It will also be wise to get second opinions on any piece under consideration. Taking the time to verify information and authenticate a coin will be worth it, there are those who operate under fraudulent practices. It will also be wise to check certification and grades with independent sources. And finally, comparison shop online, with local dealerships, or check pricing in publications that publish coin values. These activities will lead those investing in precious metals into a safe, yet exciting, investment activity.

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Precious Metals Prices

Precious metals prices are up and the Internet provides valuable information on current and future outlooks for optimal investments. Precious metals quotes can provide the serious investor with a tangible outlook on current prices and values for the future, as well as different ways to invest. Some sites offer technical analyses and charts on the history of gold, silver, and platinum. These analyses show trends and when comparing trends with specific economic outlooks it might be helpful to see how the current economic outlook has affected the value of precious metals. Rising gas prices and the current threats in the world are causing investors to look at more tangible assets for future economic concerns. These uncertainties should cause us to look all the more to the Lord and remember the promises of God. "For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope" (Romans 15:4). Hope can be found in the precious word of God. Diversity in investing has caused individuals to seek out different ways to invest in gold, silver, platinum and other metals. Many dealers online offer to purchase scrap pieces of many kinds of jewelry items and will pay cash for these tokens to individuals who wish to sell. Precious metals prices change daily and with values going up it might be a good time to purchase or resale jewelry. Some dealers pay cash based upon current market values taking into consideration weight and purity. Online dealers may also be interested in other precious metals such as copper, zinc and nickel as values continue to rise.

Information on copper, zinc, and nickel values are available online through precious metals quotes. Copper is used in the housing industry, especially copper building wire, which is used in the construction of new homes and commercial buildings. It is also used in plumbing, automotive, air conditioning, telecommunication equipment, electronics, appliances, electrical cords, and since the use of copper is increasing, demands are up and more mining is needed. Zinc is often used as an alloy with copper to form brass. Zinc is used in water treatment technology, batteries, tape, and in many items to protect against rusting. Nickel alloys are used abundantly in aerospace, oil and gas, and chemical processing industries. All precious metals prices are up and some are in demand as more mining is needed to keep up with increasing needs. Stock investments in mining companies are more valuable as demand keeps going up.

Gold is another metal that is used in many industries including electronics, dentistry, and jewelry and is in great demand along with silver and platinum. Silver is used in jewelry, silverware, dental devices, batteries, photography, electrical, and for research. Silver is also being used in hospitals in bandages that aid healing in burn victims. Research on silver for medical uses reveals that it contains an anti-bacterial property that speeds healing. Platinum is used in jewelry, electrical, electronics, glass, petroleum, medical devices, spark plugs, catalytic converters, and fuel cells. Platinum's resistance to tarnishing makes it popular in the jewelry market. Since platinum is used in fiber optic cables and hard disk drives, the demand has increased along with the demand for computers. Platinum is also used in different kinds of fertilizers and in silicons used for aerospace. The medical community has found usefulness for platinum in anti-cancer drugs and implants. To find out more about these substances, do a search online for precious metals quotes.

Purchasing gold, silver, and platinum is easy to do through dealers on the Internet. Coins and bullion are popular ways to make investments and are available in many different denominations. Precious metals prices vary depending on the dealer, so it is wise to do some research and compare different sites before making investments. Some of the more popular coins include the American Eagle, Canadian Maple Leaf, Vienna Philharmonics, and South African Krugerrands, all available in gold, silver, or platinum. For the investor who doesn't wish to have physical possession of precious metals, there are stocks and certificates available through many sites online. Having stocks and certificates means that the actual metal is stored in a vault, usually through a bank, and that it is kept under security. Another way to invest is by buying stock directly with the mining companies that offer them.

Dealers online offer precious metals quotes for serious inquiries and investors. Many provide updated market charts of current values pertaining to gold, silver, platinum, and palladium. Most prices are given in $US dollars by ounce and include conversions and melting points. Finding a broker online to help with investment decisions will give one additional insight into the best market opportunities and will usually include many choices. A financial adviser may also be very helpful in making decisions about investments pertaining to retirement.

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