Spot price is the current market price for one troy ounce of a metal available for immediate delivery. It is set by global commodity exchanges and updates continuously throughout the trading day based on supply, demand, and broader economic conditions. Every physical product you buy is priced relative to spot, with a premium added on top.

Coins are legal tender issued by government mints and typically carry higher premiums due to their recognized status and liquidity. Bars are produced by private and government mints in a range of sizes and generally carry lower premiums, making them efficient for buyers focused on metal content. Rounds are privately minted, carry no face value, and usually offer the lowest premiums of the three.

A troy ounce is the standard unit of measurement for precious metals. It is slightly heavier than a standard ounce. One troy ounce equals approximately 31.1 grams compared to 28.35 grams for a standard ounce. All precious metals spot prices and product weights are quoted in troy ounces.

There is no minimum requirement for buying precious metals. Many stackers start small with fractional silver or lower priced coins and build gradually over time. Starting with a modest purchase lets you get familiar with the buying process and develop a strategy before committing larger amounts.

Silver is often the more accessible starting point because of its lower price per ounce, which allows you to buy multiple pieces and get comfortable with the process. Gold offers more value in a smaller, more compact form and suits buyers with a larger initial budget. Many stackers hold both and adjust their approach over time.

A quality home safe that is bolted to the floor or wall is the most common solution for at-home storage. Look for a safe rated for both theft and fire protection. Keep your storage location private and consider a separate insurance policy for high value collections. For larger holdings, a bank safety deposit box or third-party vault storage are worth considering.