It seems that at the moment, all the pages I visit are swamped with news on the latest investment fad - Bitcoins.
Cited as the digital currency of the technological age, these "coins" are becoming increasingly popular online, with the number of transactions per day increasing by 400% since May 2012, according to one source.
The "High Yield Investment Programs" continue to offer great things to investors, claiming remarkable profits for those that take the risk - as much as 12-18% per month in returns.
And that's what bothers me.
Why risk your hard-earned money on a fledgling market which, quite frankly, seems a little too good to be true, when you could have the real thing?
Rare coins provide a tangible asset that has long been backed by respectable financial institutions, and with over 50m dedicated collectors in the US alone, this is certainly no flash in the pan.
Like their digital counterpart, rare coins can also offer incredible returns. However, unlike Bitcoins, these figures are repeatedly proven by sales and are widely available online.
· The Avarae Investment Trust - which holds a $1.6m Double Florin from 1344, an Emperor Claudius aurei and a William the Conquerer penny - has returned 40% between 2008 and 2011, compared to the FTSE 100's 26% over the same time frame.
· In August, a unique 1873-CC Seated Liberty No Arrows dime sold for $1.8m at the ANA World's Fair of Money, making an 11.96%pa increase on its $891,250 sale in 2004.
· The prices of the leading 200 British coins increased by 13.38%pa between 2002 and 2012, according to the GB200 Coin Index.
I hope now you are beginning to realise why I'd prefer to have the real thing; something I can touch, something that is fascinating and something that offers spectacular results to investors with just a little effort.
You can view our outstanding collection of investment-grade rare coins here.
To discuss your options further, drop us a line on +44 (0) 117 933 9500 orinfo@paulfrasercollectibles.com
Paul
Paul Fraser
