Orion Metal Exchange Review. Is It The Right IRA For You?

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Last Updated on December 17, 2025

Orion Metal Exchange is a Los Angeles–based precious metals company specializing in helping investors diversify their portfolios through physical gold, silver, platinum, and palladium.

Unlike many competitors that focus solely on transactions, Orion Metal Exchange emphasizes investor education and long-term wealth preservation.

The company assists clients with setting up self-directed IRAs backed by physical metals, rolling over existing retirement accounts, or purchasing coins and bullion for direct delivery.

What sets Orion apart is its blend of personalized service and market insight.

Rather than pushing pre-packaged products, its advisors work with clients to select metals that align with their individual goals, risk tolerance, and retirement horizon.

With access to IRS-approved storage facilities across the U.S. and abroad, Orion also gives investors flexibility in how and where their assets are secured.

In this Orion Metal Exchange review, we’ll explore its services, fees, storage policies, and customer reputation to help you determine whether this company is the right partner for safeguarding your retirement savings with precious metals.

Company Overview

Founded in 2017 and based in Los Angeles, Orion Metal Exchange is a precious metals dealer specializing in retirement accounts backed by physical gold, silver, platinum, and palladium.

The company helps investors set up self-directed IRAs, roll over existing retirement accounts, and purchase coins or bullion for either secure storage or home delivery.

Despite being a newer entrant in the industry, Orion has earned recognition in outlets like Forbes and SmartAsset for its transparent pricing and investor-focused approach.

Its accessibility and flexibility make it a strong option for both first-time precious metals buyers and seasoned retirement investors.

What Makes Orion Metal Exchange Unique?

1. Low Investment Barrier

Orion does not require a high minimum investment, making it accessible to both first-time buyers and seasoned investors.

2. Transparent Pricing

The company emphasizes straightforward pricing on coins and bullion, helping clients avoid hidden fees or inflated markups.

3. Flexible Storage Options

Investors can choose between domestic or international storage with partners like Brink’s and Delaware Depository, including segregated or non-segregated accounts.

4. Trusted Custodian Partnerships

Orion works with well-established custodians such as Equity Trust and Strata Trust Company to ensure smooth account setup and IRA compliance.

5. Investor Education & Guidance

Rather than pushing pre-set packages, Orion provides educational resources and one-on-one support to help clients align metals with their financial goals.

Services Offered

1. Precious Metals IRAs

Orion Metal Exchange specializes in self-directed IRAs backed by physical gold, silver, platinum, and palladium.

They assist with new account setup, rollovers from existing retirement accounts (401(k), IRA, or TSP), and guidance on IRS-approved metals for IRA eligibility.

2. Direct Purchases of Bullion and Coins

Beyond retirement accounts, Orion offers investors the ability to purchase coins and bullion outright.

These can be delivered directly to your home or shipped to a secure storage facility of your choice.

3. Secure Storage Solutions

The company partners with leading storage providers such as Brink’s Global Services and Delaware Depository, offering both domestic and international options.

Investors can choose segregated or non-segregated storage depending on their budget and security preferences.

4. IRA Custodian Support

Orion collaborates with established custodians like Equity Trust and Strata Trust Company to handle compliance, reporting, and administration for retirement accounts.

5. Portfolio Guidance & Market Education

Orion emphasizes client education by providing personalized consultations, insights on market trends, and strategies for balancing precious metals within a broader retirement plan.

Fee Structure

Understanding fees is essential before committing to a Gold IRA provider. Orion Metal Exchange aims to keep costs competitive and transparent compared to many peers.

Their fee structure includes one-time account setup costs as well as ongoing annual fees for custodial services and storage.

One time fees

Fee type	Amount	Description
Account setup fee	$50 to $100	Charged by IRA custodian for new accounts
Wire transfer fee	$30 to $50	Standard fee for fund transfers

Annual fees

Fee type	Amount	Description
Annual Maintenance Fee	$75 to $100	Charged yearly by the IRA custodian to manage and administer your account.
Storage fees	$150 to $225	Varies by depository and segregated vs. non-segregated storage
Insurance	Included	Metals stored with IRS-approved depositories are fully insured

Compared to competitors, Orion’s fees are relatively moderate and in line with industry averages.

The absence of hidden or sliding-scale fees makes costs more predictable, especially for investors who plan to hold metals long-term.

Investors with larger accounts may benefit from negotiated storage or custodian fee discounts.

Ease of Use & Investor Experience

1. Account Setup

Opening a Gold or Silver IRA with Orion is straightforward.

The company assists with paperwork, custodian coordination, and rollover or transfer of funds from existing retirement accounts such as 401(k)s, IRAs, or TSPs.

2. Personalized Guidance

Rather than funneling clients into preset packages, Orion provides one-on-one consultations.

Advisors help investors choose metals based on retirement goals, risk tolerance, and IRS eligibility requirements.

3. Ordering Process

For direct purchases, clients can request current pricing and place orders by phone.

While Orion does not yet offer a fully online buying platform with real-time pricing, its customer support team is available to walk investors through the process quickly.

4. Transparency & Support

Many customers highlight Orion’s transparency around costs and its willingness to explain market trends.

The company avoids high-pressure sales tactics, which creates a more comfortable experience for first-time buyers.

5. Accessibility

With no strict minimum investment, Orion makes it easier for beginners to start with smaller allocations.

Investors with larger portfolios, on the other hand, benefit from flexible storage options and negotiated fees.

Security & Storage of Precious Metals

IRS-Approved Storage

Orion Metal Exchange partners with IRS-approved depositories to ensure compliance for Gold IRAs.

This guarantees that all retirement assets are properly held and meet federal regulations.

Storage Partners

Clients can choose between trusted storage providers such as Brink’s Global Services and Delaware Depository, which offer insured and highly secure facilities both in the U.S. and internationally.

Segregated vs. Non-Segregated Storage

Investors have the option to store metals in a segregated account (dedicated storage for individual holdings) or non-segregated/pooled storage (shared vault space, often at a lower cost).

Segregated storage offers added peace of mind but may incur higher fees.

Insurance Coverage

All metals stored in partner depositories are fully insured against theft, damage, and loss.

This gives investors additional confidence in the safety of their holdings.

Transparency & Monitoring

Orion provides clear documentation and statements regarding the location and status of stored metals. While there is no full online vault monitoring, clients receive regular account updates and confirmations for all transactions.

Buyback Program: How Easy Is It to Sell Back Your Metals?

1. Buyback Availability

Orion Metal Exchange offers a straightforward buyback program, allowing investors to sell their precious metals directly to the company.

This applies to both IRA-held metals (through the custodian) and metals purchased for direct delivery.

2. Pricing Transparency

The company provides competitive buyback rates based on current market spot prices.

While rates fluctuate with the market, Orion clearly communicates pricing and fees associated with buyback transactions.

3. Process

• IRA Metals: Investors initiate a withdrawal or liquidation request through their custodian, and Orion assists with transferring the metals and completing the sale.

• Direct Purchases: Customers can contact Orion directly to arrange the sale and shipping of metals back to the company.

4. Convenience

While the buyback process is reliable, it is primarily handled through phone or email, rather than an online portal.

However, the company’s staff is known for responsive and helpful customer service, which simplifies the experience.

5. Limitations

Buyback may be subject to minimum quantities for certain coins or bars, and market conditions can affect timing and final sale price.

Investors should plan accordingly if they anticipate needing liquidity quickly.

Customer Reviews & Reputation

Positive Feedback

• Many Orion Metal Exchange clients praise the company for its personalized service, transparency, and knowledgeable staff. Customers often highlight:

• Clear explanations of IRA setup and rollover processes

• Helpful guidance on metal selection and diversification

• Competitive pricing and fair buyback rates

Areas for Improvement

• Some reviews note that Orion’s ordering and buyback processes rely heavily on phone or email communication, with limited online account management tools.

• While the personalized approach is appreciated, investors seeking fully digital solutions may find this less convenient.

Third-Party Ratings

Orion Metal Exchange has earned positive mentions from reputable outlets like Forbes and SmartAsset for its credibility and service quality.

However, as a younger company compared to long-established dealers, it has fewer online reviews than some competitors, making independent verification of experience important for cautious investors.

Overall Reputation

Overall, Orion Metal Exchange maintains a strong reputation for professionalism, transparency, and investor education.

Customers who value guidance and support over fully automated platforms tend to rate their experience highly.

Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Low Minimum Investment: Accessible for first-time investors and smaller accounts.	Limited Online Tools: Ordering and buyback processes rely heavily on phone or email; no full online portal for account management.
Transparent Pricing: Clear fees and competitive markups on metals.	Relatively Young Company: Fewer years in the industry than legacy competitors, which may concern conservative investors.
Flexible Storage Options: Segregated and non-segregated accounts with trusted partners like Brink’s and Delaware Depository.	Buyback Limitations: Certain coins or bars may have minimum quantities for sale, and timing may depend on market conditions.
Trusted Custodian Partnerships: Works with reputable custodians such as Equity Trust and Strata Trust Company.
Investor Education & Guidance: Personalized support and market insights for informed decision-making.
IRA and Direct Purchase Options: Supports both retirement accounts and direct bullion purchases.

Who Is Orion Metal Exchange Best For?

• First-Time Precious Metals Investors: Low minimum investment makes it accessible to beginners.

• Retirement Investors Seeking Guidance: Personalized consultations help align metals with retirement goals and risk tolerance.

• Investors Prioritizing Security: IRS-approved storage partners and fully insured depositories offer peace of mind.

• Buy-and-Hold Investors: Those planning long-term holdings benefit from predictable fees and clear storage options.

• Diversified Portfolio Seekers: Investors looking to hedge against inflation or stock market volatility with physical metals.

• Investors Seeking Fully Online Platforms: Orion relies on phone and email for ordering and buybacks, with limited digital tools.

• Those Needing Immediate Liquidity: Buyback transactions may have minimum quantities or depend on market timing.

• Investors Seeking Long Industry Track Record: Orion is a newer company compared to long-established dealers, which may concern extremely conservative investors.

FAQ

Final Verdict: Is Orion Metal Exchange Worth It?

Orion Metal Exchange is a solid choice for investors looking to diversify their retirement portfolios with physical precious metals.

Its combination of low minimum investment, transparent pricing, flexible storage options, and personalized guidance makes it particularly appealing for first-time investors and those who value hands-on support.

While it may not be ideal for investors seeking a fully online platform or those who prefer a long-standing industry veteran, Orion’s commitment to education, security, and customer service sets it apart in the Gold IRA space.

Bottom Line

If you want a trustworthy partner to guide you through a Gold or Silver IRA or direct precious metals purchases, Orion Metal Exchange is worth considering.

Visit Orion Metal Exchange today to explore IRA options, request pricing, or start your investment journey in precious metals.

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