U.S. tax treatment of physical metals can be more complicated than many sales pages suggest. Keep records and consult a qualified tax professional for your facts.
Cost basis
Basis generally starts with what you paid and may include certain acquisition costs. Records matter when you later calculate gain or loss.
Collectibles rate
The IRS identifies coins and metals among collectibles for capital-gains purposes. Long-term collectibles gains can be subject to a maximum 28% federal rate, depending on the taxpayer’s situation.
IRA rules
Most metals are treated as collectibles in retirement accounts, with limited statutory exceptions for certain coins and qualifying bullion held by an approved trustee. Do not assume a product is IRA eligible based only on a dealer badge.
Reporting is fact-specific
Broker reporting rules and your obligation to report taxable gains are not the same question. Professional advice is appropriate for meaningful transactions.
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Sources and further reading
This page is educational and does not recommend a personalized allocation or promise that precious metals will rise in value.