Storing gold securely: options, risks and the best solution

Storing gold securely is essential to preserve its value over the long term and to keep gold bars, coins or jewellery under suitable conditions. Both the chosen storage location and the preparation and surrounding environment play an important role. Below you will find an overview of common gold storage options and what to consider in each case.

Storing gold and gold coins at home

Many people initially decide to store gold or gold coins at home. This solution seems straightforward and offers a certain simplicity, particularly for smaller quantities.

An advantage of storing gold at home

The key advantage of home storage is constant availability. Gold and other valuables are accessible at any time, without having to consider opening hours or external access rules. This aspect can be perceived as practical, especially for manageable amounts.

Aspects to consider when storing gold at home

As the value and volume of stored gold increase, additional factors become more important and should be carefully considered when opting for home storage:

• Insurance solutions are often subject to specific conditions and maximum limits.
• Storage conditions within the home can vary, for example in terms of humidity or temperature fluctuations.
• Home safes (safes for private use) differ significantly in terms of features and level of protection. It is important to note that many models can be forced open or even removed entirely during a burglary—especially if they are not securely anchored or are only lightly protected.

Storing gold and gold coins at a bank

Storing gold in a bank safe deposit box has been a well-known option for many years. Banks have traditionally offered this service and, in some cases, still do today. At the same time, availability has changed in recent years: in many regions, the number of available bank safe deposit boxes has declined.

Bank safe deposit boxes for gold storage – the current situation

In principle, storing gold in a bank safe deposit box remains an established option. However, availability increasingly depends on location and the individual bank. More and more banks are discontinuing or significantly restricting safe deposit box services and instead choosing to cooperate with independent safe deposit box providers.

• Banks often have long waiting lists for safe deposit boxes.
• Access is usually limited to the bank’s regular opening hours.
• Safe deposit boxes are not part of banks’ core business and are therefore often offered only as an additional service.

This development explains why complementary, bank-independent solutions for gold storage have emerged. They are designed to extend existing options where traditional bank safe deposit boxes are unavailable or only available to a limited extent.

Which forms of gold can be stored in a safe deposit box

Safe deposit boxes—whether used at banks or with specialised providers—are suitable for various forms of gold and related documents:

• Gold bars: From small denominations to larger investment bars.
• Gold coins: Investment and collectible coins such as Krugerrand, Maple Leaf or Vienna Philharmonic.
• Gold in blister packs: Original packaging remains protected and intact.
• Gold jewellery: Items with material or sentimental value.
• Documents: Purchase receipts, certificates or valuation documents.

Step by step: Preparing and storing gold correctly

Regardless of the chosen storage location, it is advisable to prepare gold carefully. Proper preparation helps to preserve its condition and value over the long term.

Preparatory measures

• Gentle cleaning: Remove dust and light residues without using abrasive agents.
• Preserve packaging: Do not open blister packs or seals.
• Secure documentation: Store invoices, certificates and proof of purchase in an organised manner.

Suitable storage conditions

The surrounding environment plays an important role in gold storage. The overview below outlines key factors relevant to proper storage:

When these conditions are met—such as in professionally equipped vault rooms—gold remains well preserved over the long term.

As a safe deposit box provider, we support the discreet storage of valuables. We guarantee a reliable storage location, personal support and highly secured sites with clearly structured measures for burglary and robbery prevention.

• Rent a safe deposit box in Cologne
• Rent a safe deposit box in Frankfurt
• Rent a safe deposit box in Bergisch Gladbach
• Rent a safe deposit box in Braunschweig
• Rent a safe deposit box in Bremen

By addressing storage location, preparation and suitable conditions, you create a reliable foundation to ensure that your gold remains protected and well stored over the long term.