Storing precious metals

Storing metals at home

• Use a real safe rated for burglary and fire, and bolt it to the floor or wall.
• Keep it quiet. The fewer people who know, the better, including online.
• Don't rely on hiding spots alone. Common hiding places are the first places thieves check.
• Split it up if you hold a meaningful amount, so one loss isn't everything.

Check your insurance

Many homeowners and renters policies cap coverage for coins and bullion at a low amount unless you add a scheduled rider. Call your agent, ask what's covered and keep receipts and photos.

Handling and packaging

For gloves, capsules, tubes and other gear, see handling and storing coins.

• Keep coins in their original tubes or capsules, and handle them by the edges.
• Avoid soft plastic flips containing PVC, which can damage coins over time.
• Store in a cool, dry place; a desiccant pack helps with humidity.
• Silver can tone (darken) over time. That's cosmetic and doesn't change the metal content.

Keep good records

Record what you bought, when, from whom and for how much. You'll need it for insurance claims and taxes when you sell. Store a copy somewhere other than with the metal, and make sure a trusted family member knows how to find it.