Gold Dealers vs. Gold IRA Companies
Before diving in, understand the difference:
- Gold Dealers (this page): Sell physical gold shipped directly to you. No IRA involvement. You own and store the metal yourself.
- Gold IRA Companies: Facilitate precious metals IRAs. Metal is stored at a depository for retirement. See our Gold IRA rankings.
If you want gold delivered to your home, keep reading. If you want gold in a tax-advantaged retirement account, check our IRA guide instead.
How We Evaluated Dealers
- Premiums: How much over spot price?
- Shipping: Free shipping thresholds, insurance, speed
- Buyback: Will they repurchase? At what spread?
- Selection: Range of products available
- Payment Options: Credit card, check, wire, crypto
- Trust: BBB rating, years in business, reviews
#1. JM Bullion — Best Overall
JM Bullion has earned its position as the go-to dealer for most buyers. Their combination of competitive premiums, free shipping over $199, and excellent customer service hits the sweet spot.
Highlights:
- Free shipping on orders $199+
- Price match guarantee
- 4% discount for bank wire/check payments
- 24/7 online ordering
- A+ BBB rating
#2. APMEX — Best Selection
APMEX (American Precious Metals Exchange) offers the largest selection in the industry. If you're looking for a specific coin, bar, or rare item, they probably have it.
Highlights:
- Largest precious metals inventory online
- Free shipping on orders $199+
- IRA-eligible products clearly marked
- 24/7 customer service
- A+ BBB rating
Trade-off: Premiums can be slightly higher than SD Bullion or JM Bullion on common items.
#3. SD Bullion — Best Prices
SD Bullion consistently offers the lowest premiums in the industry. If price is your primary concern, they're hard to beat.
Highlights:
- Industry-low premiums on most products
- Price match guarantee
- Free shipping on orders $199+
- A+ BBB rating
Understanding Gold Premiums
The "premium" is what you pay above the spot price of gold. Typical premiums:
- Gold Bars (1 oz+): 2-5% over spot
- American Gold Eagles: 4-8% over spot
- Canadian Maple Leafs: 3-6% over spot
- Numismatic/Collector Coins: 20-100%+ over spot (avoid for investment)
Pro Tip: Always calculate the total premium before buying. Compare the dealer's price to the current spot price (easily found on any financial site).
Payment Methods & Pricing
Most dealers offer discounts for certain payment methods:
- Bank Wire/Check: Usually 3-4% discount (best price)
- Credit Card: Convenient but typically full price (fees)
- Cryptocurrency: Some dealers accept BTC, varies by site
- PayPal: Limited availability, similar to credit card pricing