Is it necessary or worth the effort to buy "new" coins (no scratches)?  I'm buying for the gold weight but I see comments, like, "they're beautiful", so I'm wondering if by due diligence you mean I need to ask about condition too? I also wonder how you can verify counterfeit?  Is...

What's the best way to buy actual gold?
From whom and how does one find it locally?
Is it best to buy eagles, like the book says?
Up to what premium should be paid?

Would really appreciate your help.

I only hold paper gold: gld, sgol, and gtu. Can you tell me the best way to buy eagles, perhaps both locally and otherwise?  The book recommends coins over bars so that's why I'm thinking eagles. In other words, how do I choose a reputable dealer and up to what premium should I expect to pay? All op...

I just transferred my bonds to TD Ameritrade because Treasury Direct doesn't give you a current value.  How do you know what their value is holding them at Treasury Direct?