Once you've decided to add physical gold to your retirement savings, the next decision matters just as much: who you buy it through. Augusta Precious Metals regularly tops lists of the best gold IRA companies, and in our research it earns that position — with one important caveat about who it's really for.
Below we cover what Augusta offers, what it costs, how its ratings hold up, and whether it's the right fit for you.
Augusta Precious Metals at a glance
Founded in 2012, Augusta has deliberately stayed narrow: it deals only in gold and silver. It doesn't sell cryptocurrency, platinum or palladium, or branch out into other assets. That specialization shows in the depth of its education and the consistency of its service.
Whether you're opening a gold IRA or buying metals outright, Augusta offers:
- Gold and silver IRAs with full setup and rollover support
- Direct purchases of physical gold and silver, delivered to your home
- Popular bullion coins and bars
- Premium gold and silver coins for collectors
- IRA-eligible metals that meet IRS purity and storage standards
Education before any sales pitch
Augusta's defining feature is that it teaches first. Before you invest, you're offered a one-on-one session to understand how gold fits (or doesn't fit) into your retirement plan. The tone is closer to a planning conversation than a sales call.
Its free resources include:
- A free gold IRA guide
- A video library on precious metals investing
- Regular market updates
- A web conference hosted by Harvard-trained economist Devlyn Steele
- A dedicated section on how to spot and avoid gold IRA scams
Lifetime account support
Many dealers focus on the sale. Augusta focuses on the relationship: once you're a client, you're supported for the life of the account.
- A personal customer success agent
- Ongoing access to the education team
- Full help with IRA processing and paperwork
- A dedicated order desk when you're ready to buy more or sell
Ratings and reputation
Augusta's record across independent review platforms is among the strongest in the industry. These are the figures we recorded at our last check:
| Platform | Rating | Reviews | Complaints (12 mo.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Better Business Bureau | A+ | 103 | None |
| Business Consumer Alliance | AAA | 100 | None |
| Trustpilot | 4.8 / 5 | 174 | 1 |
| ConsumerAffairs | 5 / 5 | 143 | None |
Review counts and ratings change over time; check each platform for the latest figures.
What Augusta costs
Augusta publishes its fees up front, which is less common in this industry than it should be:
| One-time setup fee | $50 |
| Annual custodian / maintenance fee | $125 |
| Annual storage fee | $100 |
| First-year total | $275 |
|---|---|
| Ongoing annual cost | $225 |
Shipping and insurance are included on qualifying purchases. The remaining variable is the dealer margin on the metals themselves, which is standard across the industry — ask for it in writing for the specific products you're considering.
Minimum investment: $50,000. That's higher than most competitors and is the single biggest reason Augusta isn't right for everyone. If you're starting with less, look at Goldco or the lower-minimum options in our comparison table.
Where your metals are stored
Augusta works with Delaware Depository, a private, high-security facility, as well as other IRS-approved depositories. Metals are fully insured and stored in your name, segregated from other clients' holdings.
How to open a gold IRA with Augusta
Contact Augusta and open your account
The team helps you complete the application for a self-directed IRA.
Transfer or roll over funds
Move money from an existing 401(k), IRA or similar plan. Augusta coordinates with your current provider and handles the paperwork.
Choose your metals
Select from IRS-approved gold and silver products. The decision is yours, and you're not obliged to buy premium coins.
Secure storage or delivery
IRA metals are shipped, insured and documented, to an approved depository. Cash purchases can be delivered to your home.
Pros and cons
What we like
- Education comes before any sales conversation
- Real-time gold and silver pricing charts on the website
- Free web conference on inflation and economic risk
- White-glove handling of setup, paperwork and rollovers
- Published consumer guide to avoiding gold IRA fraud
Watch out for
- $50,000 minimum puts it out of reach for smaller savers
- Gold and silver only — no platinum or palladium
Our verdict
In an industry where trust is everything, Augusta Precious Metals is one of the easiest companies to recommend. It avoids pressure tactics, publishes its fees, and pairs genuine education with long-term support.
The catch is the $50,000 minimum. If you're rolling over a substantial balance and want a patient, well-informed partner, Augusta belongs at the top of your shortlist. If you're starting smaller, one of the other providers in our comparison will be a better fit.
Thinking about Augusta? Request their free information kit — there's no obligation, and it's a good way to see their pricing and process before you speak to anyone.
Get the free kit →Still comparing? See how Augusta stacks up against the other providers in our guide to the best gold IRA companies.
Frequently asked questions
What is the minimum investment with Augusta Precious Metals?
Augusta requires a minimum of $50,000 to open a gold or silver IRA, which is higher than most competitors.
What fees does Augusta charge?
A one-time $50 setup fee, a $125 annual custodian fee and a $100 annual storage fee — about $275 in year one and $225 a year after that, plus the dealer margin on the metals you buy.
Does Augusta offer platinum or palladium?
No. Augusta specializes in gold and silver only.
Where does Augusta store IRA metals?
In insured, IRS-approved depositories such as Delaware Depository, with metals held in your name and segregated from other clients' holdings.