choosing a dealer

The right precious metals dealer can help make your buying and selling experience as easy as possible

When looking for a trusted precious metals dealer, you might be inclined to go with the first option you find when you do a quick internet search, especially if the price is right.

However, not all precious metal dealers are created equal, and it is important to select a dealer that is trustworthy, scrupulous, and honest.

Here are a few helpful hints and questions to consider when deciding on a precious metals dealer.

Choosing Your Precious Metal Dealer

Because of the trend in gold and silver prices over the past few years, many upstarts and untrustworthy shops have been weeded out naturally. It goes without saying that you want to invest with a dealer who has extensive knowledge of precious metals as well as buying and selling within the industry.

Unfortunately, nothing is ever guaranteed in the business of precious metals, but there are a few actions you can take to help lower your risk of doing business with an untrustworthy dealer.

Online or local?

Decide early on whether you would prefer an online or local dealer.

An increasing number of individuals are doing their shopping online, and with good reason. The prices you find online will usually be much lower than any price you pay at a local coin shop. An online dealer is not going to have any of the brick-and-mortar costs and they also have access to a national market, sometimes even international.

While local shops may have higher costs, they are a great option if you want to get some quick cash. Many individuals also prefer local shops for their sense of security and privacy, something that some online dealers often lack. You can also view the metals you are buying firsthand.

It is important to note that both online and local dealers present their share of associated risks.

Check reviews

Reviews from other customers are a valuable resource when it comes to choosing the right precious metals dealer for you.

Ask those you know or check reputable online review sites to find dealers that truly satisfy their customers. Even if you have worked with a particular dealer in the past, always stay up-to-date with trusted review sites. Dealers, even trusted ones, can change over time, and it pays to be watchful. One missed order can cost you thousands of dollars.

Consider price

When it comes to price, you should always compare dealers to see which ones have the best, most reasonable offer. Many unsavory operations offer prices that seem too good to be true. it is important to stay aware of current and fair metal prices so that you can get a good deal without getting scammed.

Customer satisfaction

Does the dealer you are considering buying from deliver excellent customer service? Do they actively keep their customers up-to-date with the running of their business? These are questions to keep in mind when trying to find a precious metals dealer.

Look at the selection

As far as product selection goes, do they offer a wide variety of precious metals? Do they have a variety of products to choose from? This is an important marker of their business operations and what you can expect from them in the future.

Check delivery and shipping fees

Trustworthy dealers should provide tracking information and delivery within a couple of days. As far as shipping fees go, it pays to compare quotes and prices from a variety of dealers before committing to one of them.

Provident Metals - A Trusted Online Precious Metal Dealer

While this list is not exhaustive, it should give you an idea of which questions to ask when you are choosing a precious metals dealer.

If you are searching for bullion or collectable currency, Provident Metals has a wide selection to choose from. You can also check out our reviews, FAQ, and information on our shipping policies.