[refermech]

Or more appropriately would I feel more secure with an ounce of gold in my hand or a .45 caliber handgun? Gold is just a metal. Nothing more. If you want to place a ridiculous value on it, that is your right.

[Wyatt's Torch]

Not to get all philosophical but aren't all "things" ultimately assigned an arbitrary (i.e. "ridiculous") value? That "value" is defined by the collective market. Fact is, gold has never been "valued" at zero because the collective market deems it of value. For centuries, gold has been the most monetary of all commodities. It works as a monetary standard because it is something "tangible" backing the currency. today, the only thing backing the dollar is the US Government which is rapidly becoming a bankrupt entity. Dollars can, overnight, become less valuable (or even worthless) based on the whims of those running the printing presses. Not true for gold and other tangible things of value.

[RC one]

I thought as you did at one time. I changed my mind though. I have morethan enough guns and ammo. Frankly, I’m not comfortable buying any more as they may become illiquid in the future and they lack the portability and “hidability” of gold coins. Both offer a good hedge against inflation but gold is simply more portable. and, as far as being “just a metal”, remember, A.) it’s rare, much rarer than paper and B.) it has been used as currency for far longer than fiat paper hence the Russian’s suggestion that we revert back to it as the inherant flaws of unfunded paper currency become more and more evident. peace brother.

[Kirkwood]

It’s not an either guns or gold decision. A wise person will have both.

[uncommonsense]

A .45 caliber handgun won't buy your freedom from a re-education camp ;-)

Gold has been a form of currency for 4 millennium. It also has intrinsic value as an element in thousands of products.

In 1900, an oz of gold would buy you the best suit on a rack. In 2009, it will buy you the best suit on the rack. Given the massive changes in the world over the last 109 years - in population, mining technology, electronics, politics - that is amazing consistency.