Best Places to Sell Gold in the USA

Selling your gold can feel a bit daunting, but with the right know-how, it’s totally doable. Whether you’ve inherited some jewelry or have coins to cash in, there are a few popular places you can sell your gold in the USA. Below, we break down the best options – from local jewelry stores to pawnshops, mail-in services, and online gold buyers – with the pros and cons of each. Before you start, it’s a smart idea to estimate your gold’s value using a gold calculator (like the one on our homepage) so you have a ballpark figure in mind. Armed with an estimate, you can confidently compare offers and make sure you’re getting a fair deal.

Local Jewelry Stores

Local jewelry stores are a convenient first stop if you prefer a face-to-face transaction. Many jewelers buy gold jewelry and coins for their melt value or to resell. You can walk in and get a personal evaluation on the spot.

• Pros: You’ll get in-person service and an immediate appraisal. Jewelers are knowledgeable about precious metals and can often explain what your piece is worth. If you accept their offer, you usually get instant payment (cash or check) without waiting. There’s also the trust factor of dealing with an established business in your community.
• Cons: Local jewelers have to cover overhead and make a profit, so their offer may be below market value. In many cases, they pay less than specialized gold buyers because they might resell to a wholesaler or refiner. Also, if you only visit one store, you’re getting a single data point – limited competition can mean a lower payout. It’s wise to get quotes from a few jewelers to see who offers the best price.

Pawnshops

Pawnshops are known for turning valuables into cash quickly. Just about every town has a pawnshop, making them an accessible option for selling gold rings, necklaces, or even gold coins.

• Pros: Speed and convenience are the big advantages. You can usually walk in without an appointment and walk out with cash in hand the same day. Pawnshops deal in all kinds of items, so they’re easy to find and often open beyond regular business hours. If you need money urgently, a pawnshop provides an instant, no-fuss transaction.
• Cons: The convenience comes at a cost – pawnshops typically offer lower prices for gold. Because they need room to mark items up for resale (and they aren’t specialized gold experts), their appraisal might be on the low side. Don’t be surprised if a pawnshop’s offer is significantly below what a jeweler or online buyer would pay. Additionally, some pawnshops might charge fees or interest if you pawn (loan against) your gold instead of selling outright. Always clarify whether you’re selling or pawning, and compare offers if you can.

Mail-In Gold Buying Services

Mail-in gold buyers (often advertised on TV or online) let you sell your gold from the comfort of home. The process usually involves requesting a prepaid mailer or kit, sending in your gold, and then getting an offer.

• Pros: Ultimate convenience – you don’t have to leave your house. Reputable mail-in services provide insured shipping kits so your items are protected in transit. It’s easy: you mail your gold, they appraise it, and then they make an offer. If you accept, you can get paid electronically or by check fairly quickly. This option is great if you live far from gold buyers or have a busy schedule.
• Cons: You have to ship off your gold, which can be nerve-wracking if you’re worried about loss or theft (insurance or not). You also might have to wait a bit (often 24–48 hours after they receive it) to hear what the offer is. If you decline their offer, you’ll want to ensure they’ll return your items without hefty fees – always read the fine print. Another downside is the lack of face-to-face interaction; you’re relying on the company’s honesty, so research their reputation and reviews before sending anything. It’s crucial to use established mail-in services with good track records to avoid scams.

Online Gold Buyers

Online gold buyers are companies (or platforms) you find on the internet that purchase gold directly. In many cases, these overlap with mail-in services – you get a quote online, ship your gold, and get paid. Some online platforms even operate as marketplaces or auctions for your gold items.

• Pros: Competitive prices are a big perk here. Online buyers often have lower overhead than brick-and-mortar stores, allowing them to pay a bit more for your gold. You can reach a wide range of buyers or a large company with just a few clicks, potentially getting better offers. The process is usually straightforward: fill out an online form, get a mailing label or kit, and send your gold in. Many online buyers offer quick payment (within a day or two of appraisal) via PayPal, bank transfer, or check. Plus, you can easily check customer reviews and ratings online to vet the buyer beforehand.
• Cons: As with mail-in, you’re dealing remotely, so you have to trust the process. There’s a slight risk of shipping mishaps (always insure and track your package). You won’t get cash today – you have to wait for the mailing and appraisal process. Additionally, the online gold buying space has some bad apples, so you need to be careful to avoid scams or bait-and-switch offers. Stick to well-reviewed, established buyers, and don’t hesitate to walk away if something feels off or if the offer seems too low.

Tips for Getting the Best Deal

No matter where you decide to sell, a little prep work can help you get the most money for your gold:

• Compare multiple offers: Don’t jump on the first offer you receive. Prices can vary a lot from one buyer to another. Visit a couple of local shops and get a quote online to see who’s willing to pay the most. A bit of shopping around can easily put extra cash in your pocket.
• Check for hidden fees: Always ask about or look for any fees or deductions. For example, some mail-in services might charge for return shipping if you reject their offer, and certain online platforms could have processing fees or commissions. The best buyers are upfront about any costs. Make sure the price you’re quoted is what you’ll actually get, after any fees.
• Read reviews and verify reputation: Before selling your gold to anyone, do a quick background check. Read customer reviews on Google, Yelp, or the Better Business Bureau. A buyer with a strong track record and positive reviews is more likely to give you a fair experience. If a company has lots of complaints about low payouts or slow payments, steer clear.
• Know your gold’s value: It helps to have an idea of your item’s purity (karat) and weight. This is where using a gold calculator on our homepage comes in handy – it gives you a rough estimate of your gold’s market value. While you won’t get the full market price (buyers need some margin to make a profit), knowing the ballpark value helps you recognize if an offer is reasonable or too low.

Start with a Gold Calculator

Before you head to a store or request a mailer, try our free gold calculator on the homepage. It only takes a minute to input your item’s details and get an instant estimate of its value. This will give you confidence and a starting point for negotiations. Get your estimate now – you might be pleasantly surprised at how much your gold is worth!

With a solid estimate in hand and the tips above, you’ll be well-prepared to choose the best place to sell your gold. Good luck, and happy selling!