Buying physical platinum can protect your wealth, but you need to do it right to avoid risks like scams or fake products. Start by picking a trusted dealer with a strong track record, good customer reviews, and ratings from groups like the Better Business Bureau. For example, sites like money.com/best-online-gold-dealers/ list top dealers such as JM Bullion and APMEX that handle platinum alongside gold, offering free shipping on orders over $199 and buyback options.[2]
Look for platinum in forms like bars or coins from certified makers, such as PGM-certified smelters or London Good Delivery standards. These ensure high purity, often 99.95% or better. Dealers like GoldRepublic sell these bars with full legal ownership, stored in secure Zurich vaults free of VAT, and they provide a buyback guarantee at current market prices.https://www.goldrepublic.com/buy-platinum[1] Kitco also offers platinum bars and coins online with clear pricing, including pools you can exchange for physical metal after a small premium.https://online.kitco.com/buy/gold-silver.html[6]
Compare prices from several sellers before buying, since they add a markup over the spot price. Pay with checks, wires, or eChecks for discounts up to 4%, but expect higher fees for credit cards or PayPal. Avoid unregulated spots like eBay or Facebook to dodge scams; stick to established online dealers, banks like TD Precious Metals, or phone orders from reputable firms.https://preciousmetals.td.com/shop/en/tdmetals[7][2]
Once you buy, decide on storage. Professional vaults offer the best safety with insurance against theft, loss, or damage, often included in fees. GoldRepublic stores in Swiss customs warehouses with annual audits you can check online, proving your bars are there by serial number.[1] Home safes or bank deposit boxes work for small amounts, but skip hiding spots like under the mattress. For IRAs, use IRS-approved custodians with secure depositories; platinum must meet purity rules like 99.95%.https://coinweek.com/paper-vs-physical-gold-the-essential-precious-metals-investment-guide-for-2025/[4]
Request proof of ownership, like bar serial numbers, and verify audits or insurance details. If selling later, use the dealer’s buyback or find local buyers through their directories for amounts under $1,000. Talk to a financial advisor first to match this to your goals.
Sources
https://www.goldrepublic.com/buy-platinum
https://money.com/best-online-gold-dealers/
https://sprott.com/investment-strategies/exchange-listed-products/physical-bullion-funds/platinum-and-palladium/
https://coinweek.com/paper-vs-physical-gold-the-essential-precious-metals-investment-guide-for-2025/
https://www.usmoneyreserve.com/news/executive-insights/how-do-i-buy-gold/
https://online.kitco.com/buy/gold-silver.html
https://preciousmetals.td.com/shop/en/tdmetals
https://www.goldavenue.com/en/precious-metals-guide/a-beginner-s-guide-to-gold/everything-you-need-to-know-about-physical-gold/what-is-the-safest-place-to-store-gold