If you’re researching Blanchard Gold reviews, you’re likely wondering whether this long-established precious metals company is a trustworthy place to buy gold, silver, rare coins, or open a Precious Metals IRA. With decades of experience in the industry, Blanchard has built a reputation as one of America’s best-known precious metals and numismatic dealers, serving investors since 1975.
In this comprehensive Blanchard Gold review, we’ll examine the company’s history, products, fees, storage options, customer feedback, and overall reputation. We’ll also analyze the advantages and potential drawbacks of investing through Blanchard to help you determine whether the company is the right fit for your financial goals.
Whether you’re interested in physical bullion, rare collectible coins, or diversifying your retirement portfolio with a Gold IRA, this guide will provide everything you need to know before investing with Blanchard Gold.
Before we dive deeper into this review, it’s important to note that choosing a precious metals company is a significant financial decision. That’s why we are committed to providing accurate, unbiased, and thoroughly researched information.
After evaluating numerous precious metals dealers and Gold IRA providers, we have identified the companies that stand out for their reputation, transparency, customer service, and overall value. Based on our latest research, we’ve compiled a list of our highest-rated precious metals companies for this year.
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Blanchard Gold Review Summary
Location:
New Orleans
Address:
909 Poydras Street
Suite 1900
New Orleans, LA 70112-4000
Management:
David Beahm (President and CEO)
Rating: 3/5
What Is Blanchard Gold?
Blanchard Gold, officially known as Blanchard and Company, Inc., is a well-established American precious metals and rare coin dealer specializing in gold, silver, platinum, and numismatic collectibles. Headquartered in New Orleans, Louisiana, the company serves investors, collectors, and retirement savers by buying, selling, and trading physical precious metals and rare coins. Founded in 1975, Blanchard is widely recognized for its expertise in precious metals investing, Gold IRA solutions, and high-quality rare coin offerings, making it one of the longest-operating firms in the industry. The company provides personalized investment guidance, market research, and portfolio diversification strategies designed to help clients preserve and grow wealth through tangible assets.
Blanchard Gold Products & Services
Blanchard and Company offers a comprehensive range of precious metals investment solutions, including physical bullion, rare coins, precious metals IRAs, secure storage options, and professional market guidance. The company’s product lineup caters to both beginning investors and experienced collectors seeking to diversify and protect their wealth.
1. Physical Precious Metals Bullion
Blanchard Gold is a direct dealer of investment-grade precious metals, offering a wide selection of gold, silver, platinum, and palladium products. Pricing is tied to live market conditions and fluctuates with global spot prices.
Gold Products
- Gold American Eagles
- South African Krugerrands
- Australian Kangaroos
- Fractional gold coins
- Gold bars ranging from small investment sizes to 1-kilogram bars
Silver Products
- American Silver Eagles
- Canadian Silver Maple Leafs
- Austrian Silver Philharmonics
- Private-mint silver rounds
- Silver bars from 1 oz to 100 oz
- Bulk silver “monster boxes”
Platinum & Palladium Products
- Government-issued bullion coins
- Investment-grade bars from recognized international refiners and mints
2. Rare Coins & Numismatic Investments
One of Blanchard’s primary specialties is the acquisition and sale of rare and historical coins. These collectibles often derive value from rarity, historical significance, and condition rather than solely from their precious metal content.
Key offerings include:
- PCGS and NGC certified coins
- Pre-1933 U.S. gold coins
- Saint-Gaudens Double Eagles
- Liberty Head gold coins
- Historic silver dollars and other collectible U.S. coinage
- Limited-edition numismatic pieces
The company is particularly well known among collectors seeking high-quality investment-grade rare coins.
3. Secure Storage & Asset Protection
For investors who prefer not to store precious metals at home, Blanchard offers access to secure storage solutions through trusted third-party depositories.
Storage Services Include:
- Fully insured shipping and delivery
- Discreet packaging for enhanced privacy
- Segregated and non-segregated storage options
- Institutional-grade vault protection
- 24/7 security monitoring and insurance coverage
Blanchard partners with leading depositories such as International Depository Services (IDS) to provide secure off-site storage for client assets.
4. Precious Metals IRA Services
Blanchard assists investors interested in diversifying retirement savings through self-directed Gold and Silver IRAs.
Services include:
- IRA rollover assistance
- Coordination with IRS-approved custodians
- Guidance on IRA-eligible precious metals
- Secure storage arrangements for retirement assets
- Compliance support throughout the account setup process
The company helps clients identify gold and silver products that meet IRS purity standards and facilitates the transfer of funds from existing retirement accounts.
5. Buyback Program
Blanchard offers a buyback service that allows customers to sell their precious metals back to the company when they decide to liquidate their holdings. This program provides added flexibility and convenience for investors seeking an exit strategy.
6. Investment Consulting & Market Research
Blanchard provides personalized investment guidance through dedicated account representatives who help clients build precious metals portfolios aligned with their financial goals.
Additional resources include:
- One-on-one investment consultations
- Precious metals market commentary
- Economic and inflation analysis
- Portfolio diversification guidance
- Long-term wealth preservation strategies
The firm’s in-house research team regularly publishes market insights, helping investors stay informed about economic trends, precious metals pricing, and potential investment opportunities.
Blanchard Gold Pricing and Fees
Blanchard Gold uses a dealer-spread pricing model rather than charging fixed commissions. The company’s profit is built into the difference between the market value of precious metals and the final selling price. While Blanchard provides online pricing for many products, actual costs vary depending on the type of asset purchased, market conditions, and whether the investment is made through a precious metals IRA.
1. Bullion and Rare Coin Premiums
Like most precious metals dealers, Blanchard applies a premium above the spot price of gold, silver, platinum, and palladium. The premium depends largely on the product’s rarity, demand, and collectible value.
Typical Markup Ranges Include:
| Product Type | Typical Premium |
|---|---|
| Investment-Grade Bullion Bars & Coins | 1%–5% above spot |
| Common Numismatic Coins | 8%–23% above spot |
| Rare & Investment-Grade Collector Coins | Up to 29% or more |
Popular bullion products such as Gold American Eagles, Canadian Maple Leafs, and standard gold bars typically carry the lowest premiums. In contrast, rare and certified collectible coins may command significantly higher markups due to scarcity, condition, and historical significance.
2. Precious Metals IRA Costs
Investors establishing a Self-Directed Gold IRA through Blanchard should expect standard industry fees associated with account administration, custody, and secure storage.
Potential IRA-related expenses may include:
- Account Setup Fee: Approximately $25 one-time charge
- Annual Administrative Fee: Typically based on account size and custodian requirements
- Custodian Fees: Vary depending on the selected IRA custodian
- Storage Fees: Generally range from $200 to $300 annually for secure, insured vault storage
These fees are primarily charged by third-party custodians and approved depositories rather than by Blanchard itself.
3. Shipping and Insurance
Blanchard offers fully insured delivery for precious metals purchases shipped directly to customers.
Typical Shipping Structure
| Order Value | Shipping Cost |
| Under $300 | Flat-rate shipping fee |
| $300–$5,000 | Free insured shipping |
| Over $5,000 | Free expedited insured shipping |
Orders are packaged discreetly and generally require an adult signature upon delivery to ensure security.
4. Payment Options and Pricing Differences
The total purchase price may vary depending on the payment method selected.
Accepted Payment Methods:
- Bank wire transfers
- Personal checks
- Credit and debit cards
- Cryptocurrency (subject to transaction limits)
Wire transfers and personal checks often qualify for the lowest pricing because they avoid payment processing fees. Credit card purchases may carry higher premiums, while cryptocurrency transactions are typically subject to specific purchase limits and verification requirements.
Is Blanchard Gold Expensive?
Blanchard’s bullion premiums are generally competitive with other established precious metals dealers. However, investors should be aware that rare coins and numismatic products can carry substantially higher markups than standard bullion. Before purchasing, it is advisable to compare premiums, storage costs, and IRA fees with other leading precious metals companies to ensure you receive the best overall value.
Blanchard Gold Custodian and Storage Options
Blanchard Gold does not act as a custodian or operate its own storage facilities. Instead, the company partners with established third-party custodians and secure depositories to provide storage and administration services for precious metals investors. Whether you are purchasing physical bullion, rare coins, or opening a Self-Directed Gold IRA, Blanchard helps coordinate secure storage and account management through trusted industry partners.
1. Gold IRA Custodian Options
IRS regulations require all precious metals held within a Self-Directed IRA to be administered by an approved custodian. These custodians are responsible for maintaining account records, handling compliance requirements, processing transactions, and submitting required tax reports.
Primary Custodian Partner
Blanchard has a long-standing relationship with GoldStar Trust Company, one of the leading custodians specializing in self-directed retirement accounts and alternative investments.
Additional Custodian Choices
Investors are not limited to a single provider. Blanchard can work alongside several IRS-approved custodians, including:
- GoldStar Trust Company
- Equity Trust Company
- STRATA Trust Company
- The Entrust Group
- Other qualified self-directed IRA custodians
This flexibility allows investors to select the custodian that best fits their investment objectives and fee preferences.
2. Precious Metals Storage Options
Blanchard offers access to highly secure storage solutions through reputable third-party depositories designed specifically for precious metals.
Domestic Depository Storage
For Gold and Silver IRA accounts, IRS regulations require that metals be stored in an approved third-party depository rather than at home.
Blanchard commonly works with International Depository Services (IDS), a respected precious metals storage provider with multiple vault locations.
Key Features Include:
- Secure vault facilities in Delaware, Texas, and Canada
- Fully insured precious metals storage
- Advanced security systems and continuous monitoring
- Independent audits and inventory verification
These facilities are designed to provide institutional-grade protection for investor assets.
Offshore Storage Solutions
For investors purchasing precious metals outside of retirement accounts, Blanchard also offers access to international storage alternatives through strategic partnerships.
One option includes storage through Strategic Wealth Preservation (SWP) in the Cayman Islands, which provides:
- Private offshore storage solutions
- Direct ownership of stored assets
- Comprehensive insurance coverage
- Diversification outside the U.S. financial system
Offshore storage may appeal to investors seeking additional geographic diversification and asset protection.
3. Allocated vs. Segregated Storage
When storing precious metals in a professional vault, investors typically choose between two storage methods.
Allocated Storage
With allocated storage, your metals are assigned to your account and recorded as your property, but they may be stored alongside assets belonging to other clients of the depository.
Benefits:
- Lower annual storage fees
- Secure ownership tracking
- Suitable for most bullion investors
Segregated Storage
Segregated storage keeps your specific coins and bars physically separated from those of other investors.
Benefits:
- Your exact assets remain individually identified
- Added protection for rare or collectible coins
- Greater peace of mind for high-value holdings
Because of the additional handling and storage requirements, segregated storage generally carries higher annual costs.
4. Home Delivery and Personal Storage
Investors purchasing precious metals with personal funds can choose direct delivery rather than professional vault storage.
Blanchard offers:
- Fully insured shipping
- Discreet packaging
- Secure courier delivery
- Signature confirmation upon receipt
This option allows investors to maintain direct possession and control of their precious metals while avoiding ongoing storage fees.
Pros of Blanchard Gold
Extensive Industry Experience
Blanchard Gold has been serving precious metals investors since 1975, making it one of the longest-established companies in the industry. Its decades of experience have helped it build a strong reputation among both investors and collectors.
Strong Buyback Program
The company offers a comprehensive buyback program, providing customers with a convenient way to sell their precious metals back when they are ready to liquidate their holdings. This added liquidity can be particularly valuable during changing market conditions.
Broad Selection of Rare and Historical Coins
In addition to investment-grade bullion, Blanchard specializes in rare and certified numismatic coins. The company maintains an extensive inventory of historic U.S. gold and silver coins, including sought-after pre-1933 collectibles.
Certified Authenticity
Many of Blanchard’s collectible coins are independently graded and authenticated by leading third-party grading organizations, including the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) and the Numismatic Guaranty Company (NGC), helping investors purchase with confidence.
Flexible Gold IRA Solutions
Blanchard works with reputable self-directed IRA custodians and allows investors to choose from multiple IRS-approved custodial providers, offering greater flexibility when establishing a Precious Metals IRA.
Secure Storage Options
The company provides access to highly secure domestic and offshore storage solutions through established depository partners. Investors can choose between professional vault storage or direct delivery depending on their preferences.
Personalized Investment Guidance
Blanchard offers one-on-one consultations with experienced account representatives who help clients navigate precious metals investing, portfolio diversification, and long-term wealth preservation strategies.
Valuable Market Research and Education
Clients gain access to educational resources, economic commentary, and precious metals market analysis designed to help them make informed investment decisions and stay updated on market trends.
Cons of Blanchard Gold
While Blanchard Gold is a well-established precious metals dealer with decades of industry experience, there are several potential drawbacks that prospective investors should consider before opening an account or making a purchase.
Higher Premiums on Rare Coins
Blanchard places a strong emphasis on numismatic and collectible coins, which often carry significantly higher premiums than standard bullion products.
Potential concerns include:
- Rare coin markups can be substantially higher than bullion premiums.
- Collector coin values are influenced by rarity, grading, and market demand rather than metal content alone.
- Investors may find it more difficult to recover the full premium paid when selling certain numismatic products.
For investors focused primarily on maximizing precious metal content, lower-premium bullion may offer better value.
Sales-Driven Business Model
Like many full-service precious metals firms, Blanchard utilizes dedicated account representatives who work directly with clients throughout the purchasing process.
Some customer reviews indicate:
- Frequent follow-up calls from sales representatives.
- Recommendations toward higher-margin collectible products.
- A more consultative sales approach compared to self-service online bullion dealers.
While many investors appreciate personalized guidance, others may prefer a less sales-oriented experience.
Limited Pricing Transparency
Although Blanchard publishes pricing for many products, certain rare coins and specialty items require direct consultation with a representative.
This can create challenges for investors who prefer:
- Instant online pricing comparisons
- Fully transparent premiums
- Self-directed purchasing without sales interaction
Obtaining quotes for specialized inventory may require speaking directly with an account executive.
Buyback Terms May Vary by Product
Blanchard offers a buyback program that helps provide liquidity for investors. However, resale conditions can differ depending on the type of asset being sold.
Factors that may affect the process include:
- Market demand for specific products
- Current inventory needs
- The rarity of collectible coins
- Prevailing precious metals prices
As with any dealer, investors should request buyback details before purchasing.
Limited Return Options for Bullion
Precious metals prices fluctuate daily, which is why many dealers maintain strict return policies on bullion purchases.
Investors should carefully review:
- Return eligibility requirements
- Order cancellation policies
- Buyback procedures
- Shipping and insurance responsibilities
Understanding these policies before purchasing can help avoid unexpected issues later.
Precious Metals IRA Minimums
Blanchard’s Precious Metals IRA services are generally geared toward investors making larger retirement allocations.
As a result:
- Minimum investment requirements may be higher than some competitors.
- Smaller investors may find more accessible entry points elsewhere.
- The overall cost structure may be less attractive for those making modest purchases.
Blanchard Gold Reviews and Ratings
Before partnering with any precious metals dealer, it is crucial to analyze their reputation across major consumer watchdog platforms. Blanchard and Company exhibits a highly established presence on certain platforms, though its footprint varies significantly across the web.
The firm has been an accredited business with the Better Business Bureau (BBB) since 1982, maintaining a stellar A+ rating.
Reputation at a Glance
| Platform | Rating | Review Count |
| Better Business Bureau (BBB) | 4.75 / 5 | 124 Reviews (0 Complaints) |
| Shopper Approved | 4.7 / 5 | 3,665 Reviews |
| Google Business | 3.5 / 5 | 35 Reviews |
| Trustpilot | N/A | No Profile / Reviews |
| Trustlink | N/A | No Profile / Reviews |
| Business Consumer Alliance (BCA) | N/A | No Profile / Reviews |
What Customers Are Saying:
To give you a clear picture of the Blanchard customer experience, we have synthesized real verified feedback from across the web. While thousands of buyers praise their long-term advisory approach, others warn about friction during order disputes and liquidation.
The Positive Feedback
Many investors praise Blanchard for its helpful, consultative approach to building a precious metals portfolio. Customers frequently note that account executives emphasize long-term wealth preservation rather than high-pressure, short-term sales tactics.
“Honest and helpful, was super beneficial. I came in with a certain portfolio strategy years ago… Very happy I did. Advice I learned here that I still use today: The best time to plant a tree was 15 years ago. The next best time [is now].”
Other long-term clients highlight consistency, establishing multi-year relationships with specific representatives to systematically balance out their retirement portfolios with physical gold and silver.
“I have been using Blanchard (specifically Nestor Vindel) as my source for precious metals for more than 10 years and have never been dissatisfied with their service or their recommendations…”
The Critical Feedback
Conversely, critical reviews often center around customer service breakdown when logistical issues occur. Some buyers report significant frustration trying to resolve incorrect shipments, noting a lack of support regarding return shipping accommodations and needing to resort to credit card chargebacks for resolution.
“A very hard company to deal with if there is a problem. They sent me the wrong order… I tried repeatedly to get them to send me return shipping materials and they would not. They expected me to send it on my dime. I did get a refund through my credit card company, not Blanchard.”
Another recurring piece of feedback touches on premium transparency and the company’s buyback policy. Some investors feel that while the onboarding and buying processes are seamless, the support drops significantly when it comes time to liquidate or sell back their metals.
“…They are eager to serve, as long as you are willing to buy. Just don’t dare ask them to assist you in selling. Once you do, you will realize that you paid too much and have little support on selling items that were purchased as an investment.”
Is Blanchard Gold Legit or a Scam?
Blanchard Gold (Blanchard and Company, Inc.) is a legitimate, long-standing precious metals firm, not a scam. Founded in 1975, they are one of the oldest and largest retail dealers in physical gold, silver, platinum, and palladium in the United States.
Is Blanchard Gold the Right Choice for Your IRA Rollover??
The final decision on your investment partner is yours, but several critical factors suggest caution with Blanchard Gold. Most notably, their scaled fee structure for IRA accounts can lead to compounding administrative and storage costs that significantly erode your retirement savings over time. Furthermore, the lack of an online application process makes the rollover transition unnecessarily cumbersome. Unlike the industry’s top-tier firms, Blanchard also fails to provide a complimentary educational kit for new investors. For more transparent, flat-fee alternatives, click here.
Blanchard Gold Reviews: Conclusion
Thank you for reading our Blanchard Gold reviews. After evaluating the company’s history, products, services, pricing structure, and customer feedback, it is clear that Blanchard remains one of the most established precious metals dealers in the United States. Founded in 1975, the company has earned a strong reputation for its extensive experience, rare coin expertise, Precious Metals IRA services, and commitment to investor education.
Blanchard’s greatest strengths include its long track record, broad selection of bullion and numismatic coins, flexible IRA options, secure storage partnerships, and personalized investment guidance. These features make it an attractive choice for investors seeking a full-service precious metals firm with decades of industry experience.
However, no company is perfect. Some Blanchard Gold reviews mention concerns regarding higher premiums on collectible coins, limited pricing transparency for certain products, and occasional complaints about sales practices. Additionally, investors focused on low-cost bullion investing may find more competitive pricing through discount online dealers.
Overall, Blanchard Gold is a legitimate and reputable precious metals company that may be well-suited for investors interested in rare coins, personalized service, and long-term wealth preservation. As with any investment decision, it is wise to compare multiple precious metals dealers, review fees carefully, and ensure the company’s offerings align with your financial goals before making a purchase.
You can request a FREE Gold Investment Guide from our #1 recommended precious metals company above, or explore our top-rated precious metals companies below to find the option that best fits your investment goals.
➜ See Our Top 3 Recommended Precious Metals Companies for Gold IRAs and Direct Purchases
Frequently Asked Questions About Blanchard Gold
Is Blanchard Gold reputable?
Yes, Blanchard and Company is a reputable and highly established precious metals firm. Operating out of New Orleans, Louisiana, the company has been in business since 1975 and has held an A+ accreditation with the Better Business Bureau (BBB) since 1982. They have amassed thousands of positive reviews on platforms like Shopper Approved, making them one of the oldest and most financially stable dealers in the industry.
What is Blanchard Gold’s return policy?
Blanchard maintains a strict return policy that varies by product type. Under their 10-day customer satisfaction policy, buyers can return certified Rare Coins for a full refund (including shipping costs) if they are unsatisfied. However, Bullion products (such as standard gold and silver bars or rounds) are final and are not subject to return or exchange due to market price volatility. “Common Date Coins” are eligible for an exchange of equal grade but not a cash refund.
Does Blanchard Gold offer a buyback guarantee?
While Blanchard does not offer a legally binding “guarantee” to repurchase every item, it is their standard business practice to extend a buyback offer on precious metals and rare coins they commonly sell. Buyback pricing is determined by the live “bid price” at the time of the sale, which fluctuates hourly based on market conditions and their inventory needs. For rare coins, they will only make a buyback offer if the coins are graded and “slabbed” by major services like PCGS, NGC, or CACG.
Does Blanchard Gold offer Gold IRAs?
Yes, Blanchard provides support for physical precious metals IRAs, allowing investors to place eligible gold, silver, platinum, and palladium bars or coins into a tax-advantaged retirement account. While Blanchard acts as the precious metals dealer providing the IRS-approved bullion, they work alongside independent, self-directed IRA custodians and secure third-party depositories to manage the account administration and physical storage.
Where does Blanchard Gold store your metals?
For clients who choose not to take personal, physical delivery of their metals, Blanchard coordinates secure, fully insured storage through independent third-party depositories. These facilities feature state-of-the-art security systems and allocate your metals on a non-segregated or segregated basis, meaning your physical assets are held completely separate from the depository’s or the dealer’s inventory.
What types of precious metals does Blanchard sell?
Blanchard offers a wide range of investment options across gold, silver, platinum, and palladium. Their inventory is broadly divided into two categories: investment-grade bullion (such as American Eagles, Canadian Maple Leafs, and standard bars aimed at raw weight accumulation) and numismatic rare coins (historical, graded coins valued for their scarcity, condition, and collector demand rather than just their raw metal content).
