American Bullion vs Goldco. Which Gold IRA Is Right For You?

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Last Updated on November 27, 2025

Choosing between American Bullion and Goldco often comes down to deciding whether you prefer a long-established Gold IRA pioneer with deep educational resources or a highly streamlined provider known for white-glove service and strong investor protections.

Both companies are well-respected in the precious metals industry, each with more than a decade of experience helping investors roll over retirement accounts into physical gold and silver.

However, they differ significantly in their approach:

• American Bullion is known for its educational depth, transparent guidance, and long track record in the Gold IRA space.

• Goldco, on the other hand, focuses on personalized onboarding, comprehensive customer support, and value-driven promotions for new IRA customers.

If you’re comparing these two firms for your Gold IRA rollover, this guide breaks down every key area.

These include fees, storage, buyback programs, customer support, investment options, and trust signals, to help you decide which company best aligns with your retirement goals.

1. Quick Comparison Table

Feature	American Bullion	Goldco
Founded	2009	2006
Minimum Investment	Typically $10,000–$25,000	$25,000 minimum
Fees	Standard IRA setup + annual custodian/storage fees (varies by provider)	Flat annual fees; potential fee waivers for larger accounts
Metals Offered	Wide selection of IRS-approved gold & silver	IRS-approved gold & silver + exclusive premium coins
Buyback Policy	Reliable, competitive buyback pricing	Written guaranteed buyback program
BBB/Trustpilot Rating	BBB: A+	BBB: A+ / Trustpilot: 4.8+
Best For	Investors wanting transparency, education, and industry longevity	Investors wanting concierge service, promotions & strong buyback guarantees

2. Company Background & Trust Signals

American Bullion

Founded in 2009, American Bullion is one of the original companies that helped popularize Gold IRAs in the U.S.

With deep roots in the precious metals and bullion industry, the company is known for its educational approach, personalized service, and long-standing reputation among retirement investors.

Trust Signals & Recognition:

• BBB Rating: A+

• Trustpilot: 4.8/5 (verified customer reviews)

• Industry Reputation: Known for helping thousands of clients roll over existing retirement accounts into precious metals IRAs

• Strengths: Transparency, educational resources, and approachable specialists

American Bullion appeals to investors who want a firm with industry longevity, clear guidance, and a well-established track record.

Goldco

Founded in 2006, Goldco is one of the most recognized names in the Gold IRA space due to its strong emphasis on customer protection, personalized retirement planning, and premium service.

The company has grown rapidly thanks to its concierge-style support and high customer satisfaction.

Trust Signals & Recognition:

• BBB Rating: A+

• Trustpilot: 4.8+/5

• Awards: Multiple “Company of the Year” recognitions in the financial services sector

• Media Presence: Frequently featured in financial news outlets and endorsed by well-known personalities

• Strengths: Communication, account safety, and investor-focused policies

Goldco appeals to investors who want white-glove support, promotional benefits, and robust buyback assurances.

Takeaway:

3. Minimum Investment & Setup Process

American Bullion

American Bullion keeps its entry point accessible with a $10,000 minimum investment for new Gold IRA accounts, lower than many competitors.

Their setup process is intentionally streamlined, making it straightforward even for first-time precious metals investors.

Setup Process Overview:

• Complete a short application form (online or by phone)

• American Bullion coordinates directly with your custodian to transfer or roll over funds

• Metals selection begins once funds arrive in the new IRA

• Specialists guide you step-by-step to avoid errors and delays

Investors appreciate that American Bullion handles most of the paperwork, minimizing administrative burden.

Goldco

Goldco requires a $25,000 minimum investment, which positions it as a more premium option.

While the barrier to entry is higher, the payoff is a very hands-on, white-glove experience during setup.

Setup Process Overview:

• Dedicated specialist helps you open the self-directed IRA

• Goldco coordinates the rollover with your existing custodian

• Once funds are available, you receive personalized recommendations on metals

• The team ensures tax-compliant handling from start to finish

Their onboarding is one of the most comprehensive in the industry, which is especially beneficial for retirees and high-net-worth investors.

Takeaway:

4. Fees & Pricing Comparison

American Bullion

American Bullion structures its fees to stay competitive and predictable for long-term investors.

Typical Fee Structure:

• Setup Fee: $0

• Annual Custodian Fee: ~$100

• Annual Storage Fee: ~$100

• Total Annual Cost: About $200 (varies slightly by custodian and storage choice)

They often run promotions that cover first-year fees for qualifying new accounts, which can reduce the initial cost of opening a Gold IRA.

Goldco

Goldco operates on a more premium fee model, aligned with its higher-touch service.

Typical Fee Structure:

• Setup Fee: $0–$50

• Annual Custodian Fee: ~$80

• Annual Storage Fee: $100–$150

• Total Annual Cost: About $180–$230

Goldco also frequently offers promotional incentives, including 10% back in free silver for qualified investments.

Takeaway:

5. Custodian & Storage Options

American Bullion

American Bullion partners with STRATA Trust Company and Delaware Depository, two well-established institutions in the precious metals retirement industry.

• Custodian: STRATA Trust Company, which is known for simplicity, responsive service, and smooth rollover processing

• Storage Options: Delaware Depository (IRA-approved, high-security vaults): Offers segregated and non-segregated storage. Facilities feature advanced security, comprehensive insurance, and strict compliance procedures

American Bullion handles all custodian coordination, making setup efficient and beginner-friendly.

Goldco

Goldco gives clients more flexibility, offering a choice among multiple recognized custodians and top-tier vaults.

Custodians: Equity Trust Company

Storage Options: Delaware Depository, Brinks Global Services (multiple U.S. locations), Options for segregated or non-segregated storage

Goldco’s wider selection allows investors to tailor storage based on location, preference, or security needs.

Takeaway:

6. Metals Selection & Flexibility

American Bullion

American Bullion provides a broad and IRS-compliant selection of both bullion and premium products.

The company is known for offering a balanced mix suitable for beginners and diversified investors.

Metals Offered:

• Gold: IRS-approved bullion coins and bars (e.g., American Gold Eagle, Canadian Maple Leaf)

• Silver: Wide selection of IRA-eligible coins and bars

• Platinum & Palladium: Available for investors seeking broader diversification

• Collectible/numismatic products: Offered but not emphasized for IRAs

Flexibility:

• Strong focus on helping investors choose metals aligned with retirement goals

• Clear IRA guidance to avoid prohibited or ineligible products

American Bullion emphasizes education and compliance, ensuring investors avoid common IRA metal mistakes.

Goldco

Goldco offers an extensive catalog of IRA-eligible and premium metals, with more emphasis on a curated selection of high-quality coins.

Metals Offered:

• Gold: Wide variety of IRA-approved coins, including exclusive/limited-run options

• Silver: Large catalog including IRA-eligible rounds and bars

• Platinum & Palladium: Available, though selection may vary

• Exclusive Goldco coins: Popular among collectors (though not all suitable for IRAs)

Flexibility:

• More choices, including exclusive coins not available from most competitors

• Reps help match metals to long-term protection goals

• Strong focus on silver options for diversification

Goldco appeals to investors who want broader product variety, including exclusive coins and more customizable portfolios.

Takeaway:

7. Buyback Program & Liquidity

American Bullion

American Bullion provides a straightforward, reliable buyback policy designed to give investors confidence when it’s time to sell or rebalance their portfolio.

Key Points:

• Offers a guaranteed buyback program at competitive market rates

• No pressure or penalties when selling metals back

• Known for fast processing and clear communication

• Ideal for retirees seeking predictable exit options

American Bullion’s buyback structure is simple and transparent, giving investors peace of mind that they can access liquidity when needed.

Goldco

Goldco is well-known for its industry-leading buyback program, praised for its ease and high customer satisfaction.

Key Points:

• Offers a guaranteed highest buyback price commitment

• Quick and seamless liquidation process

• Dedicated support handling every step of the resale

• Especially appealing to hands-off investors who want a smooth exit path

Goldco’s buyback program stands out because of its reputation for consistent, fair pricing and fast execution, making it one of the most popular liquidity options in the industry.

Takeaway:

8. Education & Customer Support

American Bullion

American Bullion emphasizes investor education, helping clients understand every step of the Gold IRA process.

Resources & Support:

• Free guides, webinars, and videos covering Gold IRA basics

• One-on-one consultation with rollover specialists

• Step-by-step guidance on account setup, metals selection, and compliance

The company is ideal for beginners and retirees who want hands-on educational support to feel confident making investment decisions.

Goldco

Goldco focuses on white-glove customer support alongside strong educational materials.

Resources & Support:

• Comprehensive guides and videos, including exclusive Goldco content

• Dedicated account executives provide personalized guidance

• Full support for rollovers, account setup, and ongoing IRA management

Goldco appeals to investors who want premium, concierge-level service with strong guidance at every step.

Takeaway:

9. Pros & Cons and Who Each Company is Best For

American Bullion

• Long-standing reputation and experience in Gold IRAs

• Strong educational resources for beginners

• Transparent fee structure with minimal hidden costs

• Guaranteed buyback program provides liquidity and confidence

• Streamlined IRA setup with rollover assistance

• Limited promotional offers compared to competitors

• Fewer premium or collectible coin options

• Less concierge-style service than high-touch competitors

Best For:

• First-time investors seeking education and guidance

• Retirees looking for low-risk entry into gold investing

• Investors who value transparency and predictable buyback

Goldco

• Premium white-glove service with dedicated account managers

• Strong buyback guarantee for metals

• Wide selection of IRS-approved coins and bars

• High customer satisfaction and industry recognition

• Attractive promotional incentives for new investors

• Higher minimum investment ($25,000)

• Fees slightly higher than entry-level competitors

• May be overkill for beginners who want a simple, low-barrier start

Best For:

• Experienced investors or high-net-worth individuals

• Those seeking personalized service, promotional perks, and full-service support

• Investors who want premium guidance and broad product variety

10. Conclusion

Both American Bullion and Goldco are highly reputable Gold IRA providers, each catering to different investor priorities:

American Bullion focuses on education, transparency, and guaranteed buyback, making it ideal for first-time investors and retirees who want a straightforward, reliable Gold IRA experience.

Goldco emphasizes premium service, strong promotional incentives, and a concierge-level experience, appealing to experienced investors and those with larger capital who value personalized guidance.

Secure your retirement with trusted Gold IRA providers:

Take the first step today toward retirement security and portfolio diversification.

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