The last few years have been quite tough on the bottom line for investors. Every kind of investor, from mutual fund managers to the average worker with a 401(k) retirement fund has felt the effects of the faltering global market. However, at least one type of investment has managed to hold its ground and actually see growth in these dismal times. This investment is rare gold coins.

Gold prices and investing in gold have provided a shelter to those weary investors on the brink of financial ruin. If investing in gold is something you think may help shore up your portfolio, here are a few pointers to get you started.

Gold Has Multifaceted Uses

What many investors often fail to take into account when considering gold coins is that they have many dimensions of value. The most obvious is the actual face value of the coin. It will always at least carry this inherent value with it, making your investment always worth at least something. When a stock takes a turn for the worst, it can potentially be worth nothing. One of the benefits of gold and silver investing is that it can provide you with a great platform for short-term stability and long-term growth, something that no other investment vehicle can offer you in this economy. Gold prices are independent of the face value stamped on these coins.

The Precious Metal Holds Value in Itself

The actual bullion the coin is made of is in itself, valuable. Coins used to be minted of actual precious metals, like gold and silver. It was made to match the face value of the coin. It was not until the beginning of the 1900's that this began to change as gold prices outweighed the value of the money. This means that no matter what happens with the economy or the collectability of the coin, the coin will still hold its value of the precious metal it was minted with. Obviously, gold and silver will never be worthless, which is more than anyone can say for numerous stocks and bonds over the past 22 months of trading.

A Rare Gold Coin's Value Is Also Dependent On Its Rarity as a Collectible

The great beauty of a rare gold coin as a good investment option is that the piece in question could fetch quite a high price if it is extremely rare, has minting imperfections or in some other way becomes a highly coveted piece in the collecting world.