After briefly dipping to $32.66 last week, silver has regained the $33.45 pivot, which now serves as near-term support. The level is seen as a trigger for momentum trades, and a sustained move above it could drive a retest of the recent high at $34.24. A breakout above that zone would open the path toward resistance between $34.87 and $35.40. Conversely, a failure to hold $33.45 could expose the downside to the $32.53–$31.81 retracement range.
While the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential silver medal to be issued sometime this summer by the United States Mint will bear the same obverse and reverse designs as used for a silver medal included in the 2013 Theodore Roosevelt Coin & Chronicles Set, the new issue will have distinct differences.
The obverse design is the same executed by Chief Engraver Charles E. Barber for the Mint’s 1905 Presidential medal from his second term, with the reverse design by Assistant Mint Engraver George T. Morgan.
Did you know that during the 2008 financial crisis, while the S&P 500 dropped by 38.5%, gold prices increased by 5.5%? This stark contrast highlights why more people are turning to precious metals IRAs to diversify their retirement portfolios. There’s never been a more critical time to consider this powerful retirement strategy.
Let me share something that might surprise you: many people don’t realize that they can hold physical gold, silver, platinum, and palladium in their retirement accounts! Whether you’re worried about inflation, market volatility, or simply want to diversify your retirement savings, a precious metals IRA could be your answer.
Holding precious metals is what I’m doing to put into an IRA for my future. There are more and more people, of all ages, that are thinking or doing this or are already doing this. It’s never to late and again in these uncertain times so it’s wise to start thinking ahead.
Let’s dive into everything you need to know about securing your retirement with this unique investment vehicle.
What Is a Precious Metals IRA?
A precious metals IRA, also known as a gold IRA, is a specialized individual retirement account that allows you to hold physical precious metals as part of your retirement portfolio. I remember when I first learned about these accounts – I was honestly skeptical! But after seeing how they’ve helped protect peoples wealth during market downturns, I became a true believer.
Operates similarly to traditional IRAs but holds physical precious metals
Offers the same tax advantages as conventional IRAs
Requires a specialized custodian who handles storage and compliance
Follows specific IRS regulations regarding metal purity and storage
Can be established as traditional or Roth IRA
Eligible Precious Metals for Your IRA
Let me tell you about a mistake I realized when I started doing research about gold IRAs. I was looking to purchase some beautiful collectible gold coins for a future IRA, not realizing till later, that it wouldn’t qualify! The IRS has strict requirements about which metals can be included in your precious metals IRA.
Gold must be 99.5% pure (except American Gold Eagles)
Silver must be 99.9% pure
Platinum must be 99.95% pure
Palladium must be 99.95% pure
Approved coins and bullion include:
American Eagle coins (gold, silver, platinum)
Canadian Maple Leaf coins
Austrian Philharmonic coins
Australian Kangaroo/Nugget coins
Several types of bars and rounds meeting purity requirements
Setting Up Your Precious Metals IRA
The setup process is actually simpler than most people think! As I am learning it seems overwhelming but it’s actually quite straightforward when broken down.
Choose a Custodian
Research reputation and track record
Compare fees and services
Check customer reviews and ratings
Verify IRS approval status
Fund Your Account
Roll over existing retirement accounts
Make new contributions
Transfer from another IRA
Consider contribution limits
Select Your Metals
Work with approved dealers
Choose eligible products
Consider diversification strategy
Review premium over spot prices
Storage Requirements and Options
Here’s something that will surprise many of us – you can’t keep your IRA-held precious metals in your home safe! The IRS requires specific storage arrangements, and getting this wrong can result in painful tax consequences.
Must use IRS-approved depositories
Segregated or non-segregated storage options
Regular auditing and insurance requirements
Geographic location considerations
Security and access protocols
Tax Benefits and Considerations
One aspect I have grown to like about precious metals IRAs is their tax advantages. Just like traditional IRAs, they offer powerful tax benefits that can help accelerate your wealth building.
Tax-deferred growth potential
Possible tax deductions for contributions
Roth IRA options available
Required Minimum Distribution (RMD) rules
Early withdrawal penalties and exceptions
Costs and Fees to Consider
Let’s talk money – because understanding the full cost structure is crucial for making an informed decision. I encourage everyone to look beyond just the obvious fees. *these may or may not be subject to change*
Setup fees ($50-$300)
Annual custodian fees ($75-$300)
Storage fees (0.5-1% of assets annually)
Transaction fees for buying/selling
Insurance costs
Dealer premiums over spot prices
Investment Strategies and Portfolio Allocation
Through research, I’ve learned that successful precious metals IRA investing isn’t just about buying gold – it’s about strategic allocation and understanding your goals.
Recommended allocation percentages (typically 5-15% of portfolio)
Rebalancing strategies
Market timing considerations
Long-term vs. short-term planning
Risk management techniques
Conclusion
Securing your retirement with a precious metals IRA can be a smart move in today’s uncertain economic environment. Whether you’re looking to protect against inflation, diversify your portfolio, or simply add a tangible asset to your retirement savings, a precious metals IRA offers unique advantages worth considering.
Remember, the key to success is working with reputable custodians, understanding the rules and requirements, and maintaining a balanced approach to your overall retirement strategy.
Consider speaking with a financial advisor to determine if a precious metals IRA aligns with your retirement goals and risk tolerance. It never hurts to ask questions it will only benefit you.
Ready to take the next step? Start by researching IRS-approved custodians and comparing their services and fees.
Your future self might thank you for taking this important step toward securing your retirement!
IMPORTANT DISCLOSURE
This article is for informational and educational purposes only. I am not a financial advisor, investment advisor, or registered broker. The content provided here reflects personal research and opinion and should not be considered professional financial advice.
Any investment decisions you make should be based on your own research or consultation with a qualified financial professional who can review your personal situation, goals, and risk tolerance. Investment in precious metals, including gold, carries risk and past performance does not guarantee future results.
Examples, statistics, and scenarios mentioned in this article are for illustration purposes only. Your actual investment needs and suitable portfolio allocations may differ significantly based on your individual circumstances.
Always conduct thorough due diligence and consult with licensed financial, investment, tax, and legal professionals before making any investment decisions. This is especially important for retirement planning and precious metals investments.
By reading this article, you acknowledge that any actions you take based on this information are at your own risk.
The 2026 edition has been “meticulously redesigned with the collector in mind,” according to the publisher.
“I am truly honored to have been part of this year’s transformation, working closely with the extremely talented and professional staff at Whitman and the invaluable Red Book Advisory Panel of more than 70 numismatic industry leaders, experts, and supporters,” said Jeff Garrett, Red Book editor and president of Mid-American Rare Coin Galleries. “Every change, from the book’s physical size to its presentation order, was carefully chosen and implemented with a single goal — to enhance the collector’s experience.”
“GIANT MARKET CRASH here. Q: How can I be so bullish on gold, silver, and Bitcoin? A: Because the idiots running the Fed, Treasury, Banks, and Wall Street only know how to print money, which makes things worse. FYI: When fake money is printed the rich, who own real assets get richer…. while the poor and middle class, who save fake money, get poorer due to inflation and taxes. Let inflation make you richer, not poorer. Save gold, silver, and Bitcoin. Take care. Crash is here,” Kiyosaki wrote
BMO Capital Markets has recently initiated Vizsla Silver Corp (VZLA) stock to Outperform rating, as announced on January 24, 2025, according to Finviz.
Over the last six months, the stock has risen by 15.79%, and it has gained 6.28% in the previous three months. Currently, VZLA is trading at 9.64%, 16.82%, and 18.91% relative to its 20-Day, 50-Day, and 200-Day Simple Moving Averages, respectively.
Bill HB306, now awaiting signature from Governor Spencer Cox, authorizes the state treasurer to issue a competitive procurement for a precious metals-backed electronic payment platform. This will allow state vendors to opt for payment in physical gold and silver.
Rep. Kenneth Ivory sponsored Bill HB306, and Sen. Keith Grover pushed the legislation through the Senate. The state politicians noted that the legislation is the latest evolution in Utah’s stance in favor of sound money.
“In uncertain economic times, Utah is providing vendors and service providers with the option to receive payment in gold and silver,” Rep. Ivory said. “This law gives Utahns an alternative to choose how they preserve the purchasing power of their earnings and savings.”