Disclaimer: Our service is supported by potential compensation from companies listed on this page. Compensation and research determine company rankings, allowing us to provide free consumer information.
Retirement planning can be a maze, but we’re here to guide you through it. Our financial future depends on smart choices, especially when it comes to precious metals.
Goldco and American Hartford Gold stand out as beacons in this landscape. These titans of the gold and silver IRA world offer unique paths to secure our golden years.
But which one truly shines? Let’s uncover the treasures each company holds and find the perfect fit for our investment dreams!
Key Takeaways

- Founder: Trevor Gerszt
- BBB (Better Business Bureau): 4.82/5 Ratings from 1,146 Customer Reviews
- Trustpilot: 4.8/5 Ratings from 1,568 Customer Reviews
- Endorsement: Sean Hannity, Chuck Norris, and More
- Initial Investment Requirement: $25,000
- Promotions: Get Up to $10,000 in Free Silver & Up to 3 Years with No IRA Fees

- Founder: Sanford Mann
- BBB (Better Business Bureau): 4.88/5 Ratings from 646 Customer Reviews
- Trustpilot: 4.8/5 Ratings from 1,370 Customer Reviews
- Endorsement: Bill O’Reilly, Roman Balmakov, and Rick Harrison
- Initial Investment Requirement: $10,000
- Promotions: Get Up to $15,000 in Free Silver on Qualified Purchases
Company Overviews
Both Goldco and American Hartford Gold stand as prominent figures in the precious metals industry, each bringing distinct advantages to investors.
Goldco showcases its deep expertise and years of experience, while American Hartford Gold focuses on making investments more approachable and cost-effective.
Goldco
Operating from California, Goldco was established by Trevor Gerszt more than ten years ago. The company specializes in self-directed IRAs for precious metals investments, including gold, silver, platinum, and palladium.
Having processed over $2 billion in transactions, Goldco has built a strong reputation as a trusted partner for portfolio diversification.
Their exceptional service has earned them an AAA rating from the Business Consumer Alliance, along with impressive ratings on Trustpilot and ConsumerAffairs. The Better Business Bureau features 1,155 reviews, reinforcing their stellar reputation.
Notable personalities like Sean Hannity, Chuck Norris, and Laura Ingraham have endorsed the company, adding to its credibility.
The company puts significant emphasis on education, providing resources that help investors make well-informed decisions.
Their consistent appearance on the Inc. 5000 list of fastest-growing private companies for six consecutive years speaks to their success.
From efficient IRA rollover services to maintaining high customer satisfaction rates, Goldco continues to earn trust from both experienced and new investors.
American Hartford Gold
American Hartford Gold, established in Los Angeles, California by Sanford Mann in 2015, has rapidly emerged as a trusted name in precious metals dealing.
They specialize in self-directed IRAs, offering gold, silver, and platinum products for financial security. Setting themselves apart from Goldco, they welcome investments without minimum deposit requirements, making precious metals more accessible.
The company has built its reputation through outstanding customer service, featuring an attractive buyback program and price-matching guarantee.
Their commitment to excellence has resulted in an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau and an impressive 4.9 out of 5-star average on TrustLink and ConsumerAffairs.
Endorsements from well-known figures like Bill O’Reilly and Rick Harrison strengthen their market position. American Hartford Gold appeals to investors of all experience levels with their straightforward, pressure-free approach.
Investors feel confident in their decisions thanks to competitive pricing and transparent processes, whether they’re transferring retirement accounts or making direct purchases.
These strengths position American Hartford Gold as a leading choice for those seeking accessible and flexible investment options.
Product Offerings
The success of precious metal investments largely depends on product variety and ease of access. Goldco and American Hartford Gold each bring distinct advantages through their product selections, meeting various investor needs.
Goldco
Goldco maintains a comprehensive selection of precious metals, encompassing gold, silver, platinum, and palladium.
This range strengthens portfolio diversification, helping investors manage market changes and protect against inflation. The broad selection enables customized investment approaches, especially within self-directed IRAs.
You can choose from these popular options for direct purchase or IRA inclusion:
- Gold coins: American Eagle Gold Coin, Canadian Maple Leaf Gold Coin
- Silver coins: Silver American Eagle Coin, Canadian Maple Leaf Silver Coin
- Platinum coins: Platinum American Eagle Coin
- Palladium products: Palladium Bars and Coins
Through this diverse selection, Goldco serves both seasoned investors and newcomers to precious metals investing.
American Hartford Gold
American Hartford Gold specializes in gold, silver, and platinum products, serving traditional buyers and IRA investors alike.
While they don’t offer palladium, their products provide reliable options for protecting against economic uncertainty. Their focused inventory appeals to investors who value straightforward choices and dependability.
You can select from these popular items for purchase or IRAs:
- Gold coins: Saint Helena Sovereign Gold Coins
- Silver coins: Australian Wildlife Silver Coins, American Eagle Silver Coins
- Platinum coins: American Eagle Platinum Coin
This carefully chosen range helps both beginning and experienced investors achieve their financial objectives.
Though offering fewer options than Goldco, American Hartford Gold stands out by providing competitive prices and educational support, making precious metals investing more accessible to a broader range of investors.
Service Offerings
Looking at the services from Goldco and American Hartford Gold reveals a range of options that help investors protect and grow their retirement savings through precious metals investments.
Goldco
Goldco helps investors by providing services that diversify retirement portfolios with precious metals. Their main services include Precious Metals IRAs, direct purchases, a buyback program, and storage options.
- Precious metals IRAs: A main service at Goldco is setting up self-directed IRAs. You can move assets from retirement accounts like 401(k), 403(b), and TSP into gold and silver IRAs, making portfolio diversification easier.
- Direct purchases: If you want immediate ownership, Goldco sells certified gold and silver coins and bars directly. This lets you add physical assets to your savings accounts.
- Buyback program: You get peace of mind through Goldco’s buyback program, which offers competitive pricing when you choose to sell your metals.
- Storage solutions: Goldco works with custodians and storage facilities to keep your physical assets safe. Storage fees change based on your chosen method.
Goldco focuses on education through their resources. Their Precious Metals Specialists give personal guidance to help you make smart choices.
American Hartford Gold
American Hartford Gold provides complete services. These cover Precious Metals IRAs, direct sales, an easy buyback policy, and investor education.
- Precious metals IRAs: You can easily convert traditional IRA accounts into self-directed IRAs with gold, silver, or platinum. This helps protect your portfolio during economic changes.
- Direct sales: If you want flexibility, American Hartford Gold offers gold and silver coins and bars for quick purchase.
- Buyback program: Their straightforward buyback promise makes selling assets simple and worry-free.
- Educational support: They give market insights and expert advice to help you understand precious metals investments better.
- Storage options: You can use reliable custodial services if you want secure storage for your metals.
American Hartford Gold stands out with good prices and easy access, making it attractive for both experienced and new investors.
IRA Rollover Assistance
Both Goldco and American Hartford Gold provide essential support with IRA rollovers, simplifying the process of adding precious metals to retirement plans. Their services aim to reduce complexity while maintaining IRS compliance.
Goldco
Goldco handles rollovers for numerous account types. You can transfer funds from Traditional IRAs, Roth IRAs, SIMPLE IRAs, SEP IRAs, 401(k), 403(b), Roth 401(k), and Roth 457(b). This wide range of options gives you flexibility, no matter how your retirement savings are structured.
The company works alongside trusted custodians to make the process straightforward. Their team helps move your funds from existing accounts to Precious Metals IRAs smoothly, whether through direct or indirect rollovers.
This careful assistance helps you avoid penalties or taxes, creating a secure path for diversifying your retirement portfolio.
Support remains central to their offerings. You’ll work with dedicated representatives who help with paperwork and answer questions throughout the process.
This shows Goldco’s dedication to making rollovers simple. The step-by-step approach lets you move your investments into gold or silver IRAs with confidence.
American Hartford Gold
American Hartford Gold specializes in assistance for standard IRA accounts. Their services focus on rollovers from traditional, Roth, and employer-sponsored plans like 401(k). You’ll find options suited to various financial situations.
Professional guidance shapes their service model. Representatives handle everything from initial paperwork to final investment setup for precious metals IRAs. You can rest assured knowing your account meets IRS requirements at each stage.
The company stands out for making rollovers accessible. Their straightforward approach matches their strong reputation for service excellence.
Whether you’re new to investing or experienced, you’ll find it easy to manage rollovers, helping secure your long-term financial future with gold and silver investments.
Fees And Pricing
Feature | Goldco | American Hartford Gold |
---|---|---|
Setup Fee | $50 | Not specified |
Wire Fee | $30 (one-time) | Not specified |
Annual Maintenance Fee | $80 | Not specified |
Annual Storage Fee | $100 (shared) – $150 (private) | $180 |
Total Annual Fees | $225 – $275 | Varies (potential fee waivers for larger accounts) |
Minimum Investment | $25,000 | No minimum (IRAs start at $10,000) |
Fee Structure | Transparent, outlined upfront | Flexible, may vary based on account type and metal holdings |
Goldco
Goldco maintains a straightforward fee structure that outlines all costs at the beginning, helping investors understand their expenses clearly. You’ll need to pay a $50 setup fee and a one-time $30 wire fee when funding your account.
The yearly maintenance charge is $80, while storage costs range from $100 for shared storage to $150 for private storage. Your total yearly fees will be between $225 and $275, based on your storage choice.
You’ll need at least $25,000 to open a gold IRA with Goldco. This higher entry point makes Goldco suitable for investors with larger portfolios.
Though the fees might seem substantial, you’ll appreciate how the company keeps everything transparent about managing your costs.
American Hartford Gold
American Hartford Gold takes a more flexible approach to fees compared to Goldco. You might notice that some fee information isn’t readily available and could vary based on your account type or the amount of metals you hold.
The company sets an annual storage fee of $180; however, you might qualify for fee waivers if you maintain a larger account, potentially reducing your overall costs.
You can start investing with American Hartford Gold without meeting a minimum requirement, though IRAs begin at $10,000.
This lower threshold makes American Hartford Gold more accessible if you’re just starting with precious metals or have a smaller investment portfolio. You’ll find this flexibility beneficial whether you’re new to investing or have specific financial targets in mind.
Storage Options
Storage plays a vital role in protecting precious metals investments. Both Goldco and American Hartford Gold provide unique solutions that align with various investor needs.
Goldco
Goldco offers two main storage arrangements through highly secured facilities like Delaware Depository and Brink’s Global Services. You can choose between segregated and non-segregated storage options.
With segregated storage, your metals are kept in separate, individual spaces, completely isolated from other assets. This premium option suits investors seeking exclusive storage, with an annual fee of $150.
The non-segregated or shared storage allows your precious metals to be stored alongside other investors’ holdings while maintaining clear ownership records.
This cost-effective option carries an annual fee of $200 but reduces initial storage expenses. Goldco’s partnerships with secure U.S. vaults feature advanced safety measures, giving you confidence in the protection of your investments.
By offering both premium and shared storage choices, Goldco adapts to your specific needs, whether you value exclusivity or cost-effectiveness.
American Hartford Gold
American Hartford Gold designs storage solutions that match modern investor preferences. You can select between secure vault storage or home delivery.
Vault storage ensures your metals are protected in professional facilities with controlled environments built to prevent theft and damage.
If you prefer direct control, home storage remains an option. However, when dealing with IRAs, you must carefully follow IRS regulations.
The choice between professional and personal storage shows how American Hartford Gold prioritizes your preferences.
Their storage options focus on accessibility, making sure both hands-off investors and those wanting physical access to their assets feel secure about their investment’s safety.
Customer Reviews And Ratings
Looking at customer reviews and ratings reveals what makes Goldco and American Hartford Gold stand out. Both companies have built strong reputations, shown by positive feedback across multiple platforms.
Goldco
Goldco receives excellent feedback from its customers on several review platforms, showing its dedication to superior service.
- Better Business Bureau (BBB): Goldco maintains an A+ rating, with 1,146 reviews averaging 4.82 stars out of 5.
- Trustpilot: More than 1,500 reviews show an average score of 4.8 stars.
- ConsumerAffairs: The company achieves similar excellence, with ratings near 4.8 out of 5 from 1,688 customer reviews.
Clients frequently praise Goldco’s expert staff, clear fee structure, and efficient IRA rollover process. Quick problem resolution, especially regarding value concerns, stands out as a key strength.
Buyers express satisfaction with the company’s buyback offers, describing them as reasonable and flexible. Issues mainly relate to the free silver promotion’s unclear terms and occasional unrequested calls.
Most clients appreciate Goldco’s attention, which works well for both seasoned and first-time investors. This personal service builds trust.
However, the $25,000 minimum investment means some reviewers suggest Goldco suits those ready for bigger investments.
American Hartford Gold
American Hartford Gold similarly earns high customer ratings and recognition for its welcoming investment approach.
- Better Business Bureau (BBB): Holds an A+ rating, backed by 646 reviews, averaging 4.88 out of 5.
- Trustpilot: Reviews show a satisfaction score of 4.8 stars from 1,370 customer reviews.
- ConsumerAffairs: Achieves 4.5 stars out of 5 from 871 customer reviews, with clients praising accessible service and expert guidance.
Users often highlight American Hartford Gold’s relaxed sales style and thorough market education. Positive comments emphasize the smooth buyback program and competitive rates.
The company stands out from Goldco by having no minimum investment requirement, making it attractive to beginners and smaller investors.
Critical feedback mentions some communication delays, though these seem rare and quickly addressed. While offering fewer products than Goldco, customers value the straightforward choices in gold and silver coins.
Both companies show excellence in customer satisfaction but serve different investment needs and financial levels, as shown through their reviews.
Advantages And Disadvantages
Comparing the advantages and disadvantages of Goldco and American Hartford Gold helps you make an informed decision when selecting your investment partner. Each company brings unique strengths while serving specific financial needs and preferences.
Goldco
Goldco stands out with strong customer satisfaction scores and multiple investment choices, establishing itself as a reliable option for investors. However, its higher entry point might not suit everyone.
Advantages
- Offers extensive metal selections including gold, silver, platinum, and palladium, enabling portfolio diversification.
- Outstanding customer feedback with an A+ BBB rating and 4.82 stars from almost 1,570 reviews shows service quality.
- Educational materials, including free gold IRA kits and market guides, help you make informed decisions.
- Provides valuable promotional offers such as up to $10,000 in bonus silver for qualifying accounts.
Disadvantages
- Higher barrier to entry with a $25,000 minimum investment requirement.
- Limited specialty metal options due to mainstream precious metals focus.
American Hartford Gold
American Hartford Gold prioritizes accessibility and affordability, making it suitable for newcomers and smaller investors. However, its relative youth and limited selection present certain challenges.
Advantages
- Zero minimum investment threshold improves accessibility, with IRAs starting at $10,000.
- Offers investor benefits through transparent buyback programs and price-matching guarantees, ensuring fair value.
- Impressive reviews averaging 4.89 stars from over 600 BBB reviews demonstrate commitment to service.
Disadvantages
- Unclear fee structure creates potential confusion for investors.
- Limited selection focusing on gold, silver, and platinum reduces investment variety.
- Shorter industry presence since 2015 compared to established competitors.
Both companies excel in specific areas, serving various investor requirements and goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Goldco and American Hartford Gold credible companies?
Both maintain strong credibility. Goldco holds an A+ BBB rating and AAA from the Business Consumer Alliance. American Hartford Gold carries an A+ BBB rating with high marks on TrustLink and ConsumerAffairs.
What makes Goldco a good option for precious metals IRAs?
Goldco excels with proven expertise, clear fees, and personalized service. Having handled $3 billion in transactions over ten years, they offer gold, silver, platinum, and palladium investments. Their services include IRA rollovers and educational materials to support informed investment choices.
Why choose American Hartford Gold for retirement investments?
American Hartford Gold stands out for its zero minimum investment requirement and competitive prices backed by a price match guarantee. Their straightforward inventory and educational focus make them suitable for investors at all experience levels.
Which company offers better storage options?
Both provide reliable storage solutions. Goldco features segregated and non-segregated storage, while American Hartford Gold offers vault storage and home delivery options. Your choice depends on security needs versus direct access preference.
What are popular products offered by each company?
Goldco provides gold, silver, platinum, and palladium products, including American Eagle and Canadian Maple Leaf coins.
American Hartford Gold offers gold, silver, and platinum options, featuring Saint Helena Sovereign Gold Coins and American Eagle Silver Coins.
Should I go with Goldco or American Hartford Gold?
Your choice should align with your investment goals. Select Goldco for comprehensive guidance and diverse options if you can meet the $25,000 minimum.
Choose American Hartford Gold for accessibility with no minimum investment and straightforward pricing. Each company excels in specific areas to meet varying investor needs.
Conclusion
Your decision between Goldco and American Hartford Gold should align with your specific investment objectives and financial circumstances.
Each company offers distinct advantages – Goldco stands out with its individualized investment guidance and wide range of products, while American Hartford Gold attracts investors with its approachable pricing structure and easy entry options.
Understanding what makes each company unique helps you select the option that best matches your needs. If you prioritize comprehensive support and extensive product selection, Goldco might be your ideal choice.
If you’re looking for more affordable entry points without compromising on quality, American Hartford Gold could be the better fit.
Both companies have proven track records in helping investors strengthen their portfolios with precious metals, making either choice a solid pathway toward achieving your long-term financial security goals.
PROS
- No setup fees for new accounts.
- Guaranteed buyback program at top market rates.
- Endorsed by celebrities Sean Hannity and Chuck Norris.
- Up to $10,000 in free silver for qualified investors.
- Over 6,000 five-star customer reviews across major platforms.
CONS
- A $25,000 minimum investment may deter smaller investors.
Kevin Clark stands as a prominent authority in financial markets, particularly focused on precious metals and gold IRA investments. His credentials include a prestigious Wharton MBA and CFP™ certification, which he leverages to assist investors with retirement portfolio strategies. His extensive background combines executive roles on Wall Street with valuable experience on WVDOT’s advisory team. You can find Clark’s expert analysis featured across major financial media outlets, and his bestselling book has helped numerous investors understand market dynamics. Through his engaging presentations and seminars, he breaks down sophisticated investment concepts into practical strategies, enabling you to make informed decisions about incorporating precious metals into your retirement planning. His approach emphasizes secure retirement solutions through strategic metal investments.