The 1997 IRA amendment offers IRA investors the opportunity to diversify their investments from pure paper, stocks, bonds and mutual funds, to solid hard-asset investments-precious metals.

Gold bullion and silver bullion were approved for IRAs by the US government in 1997. Heretofore, only Gold Eagles and Silver Eagles coins were acceptable for IRA Plans. This change is especially beneficial to IRA investors who would like to diversify their IRA holdings to include more than stocks, bonds and mutual funds.

Gold Eagles are the only gold coins specifically approved for IRAs. Other gold coins to be eligible as IRA investments must be at least .995 fine (99.5% pure 24-karat gold) and be legal tender coins. This provision puts Gold Maple Leafs, Kangaroo Nuggets, Austrian Philharmonikers and Perth Mint's Gold Dragons on the approved list. In fact, all the coins of the Perth Mint's Lunar Series (.9999 fine) are eligible. Conversely, many gold coins, such as Krugerrands (91.67% pure) and old numismatic US gold coins (90% pure) are not legal investments for IRAs.

Silver Eagles are the only US silver coins specifically approved for IRAs, though the .999 fine clause makes Silver Maple Leafs also eligible. However, pre-1965 US 90% silver coins are not eligible for IRAs. For IRA investors who prefer silver, bullion bars are recommended.

Platinum Eagles were also allowed by the 1997 IRA law revision. American Platinum Eagles have become very popular bullion coins in the US.

Please consult your tax accountant and investment advisor on retirement goals and tax implications for your situation.