Is Money Metals Exchange cheaper than APMEX?

Generally yes — Money Metals typically charges premiums 0.5–1% lower than APMEX on standard bullion coins and bars. On a single 1 oz gold coin at $2,800 spot, that difference translates to roughly $14–28 per ounce saved.

Does APMEX have a buyback program?

Yes, APMEX buys back most major gold and silver products through their online form. Money Metals also offers buyback, often with a slightly tighter spread on standard bullion items.

Which is better for first-time gold buyers?

Both are reputable and beginner-friendly. Money Metals is simpler if you want to buy 1 oz coins or bars at the lowest premium. APMEX offers more products and a more polished website if you want to explore options before buying.

Money Metals vs APMEX: which is better for buying gold?

Both are among the most trusted online gold dealers in the US — but they differ on price, selection, and who they serve best.

The short answer

If you want to buy standard 1 oz gold coins or bars at the lowest premium, Money Metals Exchange typically wins on price. If you want the widest product selection — including rare coins, graded numismatics, and gift sets — APMEX is the better choice. Both are legitimate, established dealers with insured shipping and buyback programs.

Premiums over spot

The premium is the amount you pay above the gold spot price — and it's the most important factor when comparing dealers for bullion purchases.

On a 1 oz American Gold Eagle coin with spot at approximately $2,800:

Money Metals Exchange: typically 3–4% premium (~$2,884–$2,912)
APMEX: typically 4–5% premium (~$2,912–$2,940)

On a 1 oz gold bar (e.g., PAMP Suisse or Valcambi), the spread is similar — Money Metals usually runs 0.5–1% below APMEX. Over ten ounces, that's $140–$280 in savings — meaningful at any portfolio size.

Product selection

APMEX carries over 4,000 products — gold coins from more than a dozen national mints, vintage and collectible coins, certified PCGS/NGC coins, and gift items. It's the go-to for collectors and those with specific product requests.

Money Metals has a curated catalog of around 300–500 products, focused on the most popular bullion items: US Eagles, Canadian Maples, Krugerrands, and bars from major refiners. For most bullion stackers, that's more than enough selection.

Payment options and discounts

Both accept check, bank wire, and credit/debit card (with a small surcharge for cards). Money Metals additionally accepts cryptocurrency, and their crypto discount (typically 1% off) makes it particularly attractive for buyers who already hold Bitcoin or stablecoins.

Shipping and delivery

Both dealers ship via USPS, UPS, or FedEx with full insurance. APMEX tends to ship within 1–2 business days of payment clearing; Money Metals usually ships within 2–3 business days. Both use discreet packaging with no indication of contents on the exterior.

Buyback programs

Both offer competitive buyback prices. Money Metals provides instant online quotes and has a reputation for paying close to spot on standard bullion. APMEX's buyback prices are solid, particularly for products with strong resale demand (US Eagles, Canadian Maples). The difference in practice is small — a few dollars per ounce at most.

Auto-invest and storage

Money Metals offers an automatic purchase plan — you can set recurring purchases on a weekly or monthly basis, useful for dollar-cost averaging into gold. APMEX offers vault storage through their APMEX-managed depository. Money Metals has their own depository option as well.

Who should use each one

Choose Money Metals if you buy standard bullion regularly and want the lowest premium, pay with crypto, or want a simple auto-invest program. Choose APMEX if you collect numismatic or limited-edition coins, want the broadest selection, or prefer financing options through Affirm.

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This article is for informational purposes only and is not affiliated with Money Metals Exchange or APMEX. Premiums quoted are approximate and subject to change. Verify current prices with the dealer before purchasing. This is not investment advice.