Platinum Coins and Bars

Although platinum bullion demand does not rival either gold or silver, Independent Living Bullion offers a full range of physical platinum bullion investment options to its customers as well. The two main North American government mints have discontinued the production of platinum coins in recent years, causing availability and price of platinum products to be somewhat fluid.

Investors looking to buy platinum coins or bars online, or over the phone, should call Independent Living Bullion directly at 1-800-800-1865 to inquire about pricing and product availability and/or to place an order.

Many may not be aware that platinum is even more rare than gold. Actually, platinum is so rare that all of the metal ever mined could fit into a room measuring 25 feet by 25 feet. This super-dense precious metal is more than twenty times rarer than gold.

Platinum prices have recently been below gold, an anomaly seldom seen in the past several decades. Granted, gold has risen primarily due to its rediscovered use as a monetary and safe-haven asset during these times of substantial global fiat currency turmoil, but like gold, platinum is a tangible asset that can be owned in the form of bullion coins or bars. Investing in platinum offers a huge upside potential.

Historically speaking, platinum has generally sold for around twice the price of gold. As recently as May 2008 platinum was 2.4 times the price of the yellow metal before the financial collapse took both metals down. Since then, platinum has lagged the prime monetary metals; i.e., gold and silver. However, don't expect platinum's relative cheapness to last forever.

With an overwhelming percentage of demand coming from the industrial sector – especially from its use in catalytic converters in automobiles – platinum is a more speculative investment than either gold or silver. And thus it can often be more volatile, both to the upside and the downside.

A primary driver suggesting that buying platinum coins will be an excellent play going forward is that nearly three quarters of the world's supply for the metal comes from a single country – South Africa. And given the ongoing destruction of the post-apartheid South African economy it's not difficult to recognize how quickly the supply of platinum could be disrupted, causing an immediate shortage and price spike.

In fact, the events of early 2008 were likely a prelude: massive electrical blackouts shut down production at many of the country's mines. Furthermore, rumors about a potential move by the South African government to nationalize all mines has dissuaded many mining companies from either opening or expanding production in the country.

Even with the economic slowdown in many parts of the Western world, the future outlook for auto demand (and thus the demand for platinum) remains very strong thanks to a rising middle class in both China and India – where amazingly nearly 40% of the world's population resides.

Overall the downside risk to owning platinum coins – compared to gold coins – is minimal given the rarity of platinum's present discount. So those looking for good relative value might consider diversifying their precious metals portfolio by investing in platinum bullion coins or bars or even trading in some of your gold for platinum.