Bullion moving fast in wrong direction

Bullion prices were falling faster than this month's "Coin Market" could be updated. Check the bullion prices recorded in the Sept. 4 issue of Numismatic News to be fully aware of the reference numbers for gold, silver and platinum bullion.

According to the World Gold Council, central banks purchased 89.4 metric tons of the yellow metal during the second quarter, a decline of seven percent from the same period one year earlier. Despite this news, it appears the same banks purchased more gold during the first half of 2018 than they have since 2015.

Common date gold and silver coins, both bullion and collectible, are now selling close to their intrinsic value, with sales volumes being down perhaps as much as 20 percent in the past month since some dealers are not willing to sell inventory at what has become a new but lower level.

Collectors appear anxious to buy but are increasingly challenged to find common material at realistic prices. Collectible coins that usually command a premium remain at bargain prices when compared to several years earlier, with enthusiastic collectors enjoying the current market. As long as someone is willing to sell at current price levels, there are buyers for these coins.

More Collecting Resources

• Are you a U.S. coin collector? Check out the 2019 U.S. Coin Digest for the most recent coin prices.

• Keep up to date on prices for Canada, United States and Mexico coinage with the 2019 North American Coins & Prices guide.