The Questions Worth Asking Any Vault

Allocated precious metals storage

Allocated or unallocated?

Allocated and segregated, recorded by serial where bars carry them, stated in the agreement.

What is the difference?

Allocated means specific bars are yours. Segregated means they are stored apart. Unallocated means you hold a claim, not title.

Is client metal ever lent?

No. Never lent, leased, pledged or rehypothecated.

Can I inspect my holding?

Yes, by appointment, and you may attend the audit.

Who audits it?

An independent auditor rather than us. Clients may attend.

Is it insured?

Coverage is arranged separately through Lloyd's of London. Not FDIC — no vault contents anywhere are.

What if the company fails?

The metal is your property in our custody, allocated and identifiable. It is not our asset.

Do I get the same bars back?

Yes, checked against your signed inventory.

Can you settle in cash instead?

No. You store metal, you receive metal. Look for that clause in any agreement you are offered.

Why is silver dearer to store?

Storage is priced on volume and handling. Silver takes roughly seventy times the space of gold for the same value.

Do you grade or value coins?

No. We are custodians. Grading and valuation are separate professions.

Do you store platinum sponge?

No. Investment-form bars and coins only.

Can a trust or company store here?

Yes, identified as any client would be.

Do you offer anonymous storage?

No, and we would decline the request. Valid legal process is honoured.

Should I use a safe deposit box instead?

For a smaller holding, often yes — cheaper and simpler. We rent boxes too and will point you there.