What APMEX is and how to buy from them

APMEX (American Precious Metals Exchange) is a precious metals dealer based in Oklahoma City that sells coins, bars, and rounds made of gold, silver, platinum, and palladium. You can buy from them online at apmex.com, by phone at 1-800-375-9006, or through their mobile app. They ship to all 50 states and hold inventory of both common bullion items and rare numismatic coins.

When you place an order, APMEX charges the spot price of the metal plus a markup that varies by product type and current demand. Shipping costs depend on order weight and your location. Most orders ship within one to three business days. You receive tracking information by email, and APMEX insures shipments in transit at no extra charge.

APMEX also buys precious metals from individuals. If you want to sell coins or bars you own, you can request a quote online or by phone. They pay by check or bank transfer, and they cover return shipping if you decline their offer.

Key Takeaways

  • APMEX charges the spot price of metal plus a dealer markup that changes based on product type and market conditions.
  • You can buy online, by phone, or through their app, and most orders ship within one to three business days with included insurance.
  • APMEX buys precious metals from individuals and will quote your items by email or phone before you commit to selling.
  • Prices and availability change throughout the day as metals markets move, so the price you see online may differ from the price when you complete checkout.

How APMEX pricing works

APMEX displays prices in real time on their website. The price you see includes the current spot price of the metal plus APMEX's markup. The markup is not a fixed percentage — it shifts based on which product you are buying, how much demand exists for that item, and current market volatility.

Common bullion items like American Silver Eagles or one-ounce gold bars typically carry a smaller markup than rare or collectible coins. A one-ounce American Silver Eagle might have a markup of $2 to $4 per coin, while a rare date coin could carry a markup of 10 percent or more of the total price.

The spot price itself changes throughout the trading day as global metals markets move. If you add an item to your cart and wait several hours before checking out, the price may have risen or fallen. APMEX locks in the price you see at checkout, so you know the exact cost before you complete the purchase.

Payment methods and account options

APMEX accepts credit cards, debit cards, bank transfers, checks, and wire transfers. They also accept payment through PayPal. If you are buying a large order, a wire transfer or bank transfer typically processes faster than a credit card and may may have access to you for a volume discount.

You do not need to create an account to make a purchase, but creating one lets you track order history, save favorite items, and set up price alerts. Price alerts notify you by email when a specific coin or bar drops to a price you choose. This feature is free and does not obligate you to buy.

APMEX offers a loyalty program called APMEX Rewards. Members earn points on every purchase that can be redeemed for discounts on future orders. The program is free to join.

Shipping, insurance, and returns

APMEX ships orders via UPS, FedEx, or USPS depending on package weight and destination. Shipping costs are calculated at checkout based on your address and the weight of your order. Most orders arrive within five to ten business days, though expedited shipping is available for an additional fee.

All shipments are insured against loss or damage at no extra charge. APMEX covers the full value of your order while it is in transit. If a package arrives damaged or goes missing, you file a claim with APMEX directly — you do not deal with the carrier yourself.

APMEX has a 30-day return policy for most items. If you receive an order and change your mind, you can return it unopened for a refund of the purchase price minus a restocking fee. The restocking fee is typically 5 to 10 percent of the order value. Rare or collectible coins may have different return terms, so check the product page before you buy.

Buying rare and collectible coins from APMEX

Beyond bullion, APMEX stocks rare coins graded by third-party services like PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service) and NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Company). These coins carry certification numbers and grades that describe their condition. A coin graded MS-65 is in much better condition than one graded VF-20, and the price reflects that difference.

Rare coins are priced individually rather than by weight. APMEX lists the grade, certification number, and detailed photos for each coin. The markup on rare coins is higher than on bullion because the dealer is taking on more risk — the value depends on collector demand for that specific date and variety, not just the metal content.

If you are new to rare coins, APMEX publishes educational content on their website about grading standards, how to read certification labels, and the history of different coin series. This information is free and does not require an account.

How APMEX compares to other dealers

APMEX is one of the largest precious metals dealers in the United States by volume. Other major dealers include JM Bullion, Kitco, Golden Eagle Coins, and local coin shops. Prices and markups vary between dealers because each one sources metals differently and carries different inventory.

When comparing dealers, check the markup on the specific item you want to buy, not just the spot price. A dealer with a lower markup on American Silver Eagles might have a higher markup on platinum bars. Shipping costs and return policies also differ, so factor those into your total cost.

APMEX publishes their buy-back prices on their website, which tells you roughly what they will pay if you sell to them later. This is useful information if you are deciding whether to buy from them — you can see the spread between their buy price and sell price for any item.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I buy from APMEX if I live outside the United States?

APMEX ships to all 50 U.S. states but does not currently ship internationally. If you are outside the U.S., you would need to use a different dealer or a package forwarding service. Check APMEX's shipping policy on their website for the most current information.

What happens if the price drops after I place my order?

APMEX locks in the price at checkout, so you pay what you agreed to pay even if the spot price falls before your order ships. You cannot cancel an order to buy at the lower price. However, if you have not yet been charged, you can contact APMEX to cancel before payment is processed.

Does APMEX report my purchases to the government?

APMEX does not report individual bullion purchases to any government agency. Bullion sales are not tracked the way certain financial transactions are. However, if you sell precious metals to APMEX, they may issue a 1099-B form for tax purposes depending on the amount and type of sale — consult a tax professional about your specific situation.

Can I inspect coins before I buy them?

APMEX publishes detailed photos and certification information for each rare coin online. For bullion items, you cannot inspect individual pieces before purchase because they are generic and interchangeable. If you receive an item that looks damaged or defective, you can return it under their 30-day return policy.

What is the minimum order amount?

APMEX does not have a stated minimum order amount. You can buy a single coin or bar if you choose. However, shipping costs are the same whether you order one item or ten, so smaller orders have a higher cost per item when you factor in shipping.