Buy gold! but from who?!?!?! I've heard for a long time to put some money into gold coins, bullion or bulk silver coins. Problem is, who of the myriad of dealers can you trust??? I know, buy it, then send it out for appraisal but I've heard of scams where some appraisal outfits, the ones that seal the coins in plastic after appraisal, are ripping off customers too! Might be a good starting place to ask here if some have a trustworthy company they can recommend. BUT... then you have shills here to deal with and scammers that will lead you astray. Back to the original problem, who can you buy from with confidence?  I've pondered this and can think of no failsafe way to do it other than buy.. get appraised and hope(!) it's as good as they say it is AND you get the good stuff back! Anyone got any advice/experience they can add to help us newbie numismatists? Much appreciated.