I know how much effort goes into writing such an in-depth post. Thanks in advance for taking the time. You make some great points about precious metals. I like to use https://www.providentmetals.com for purchases. They allow me to use an electronic check which gives the cash discount price. They also accept bitcoin. I frequent a local coin dealer for 90% silver. Diversification is key and now I am learning about cryptocurrency. I read somewhere that Japan is now accepting bitcoin at 260,000+ retail stores.
I would also like to bring up that bartering will be important if a major event occurs such as SHTF, WROL, or TEOTWAWKI. Having extra stuff in your preps like cigarettes, alcohol, ammo, and canned food that you put back specifically for this purpose can prove to be useful. I do this because I may need a service or chore that I am not capable of or know how to do and these items can be traded to get the mission accomplished.
Thanks, @prep4shtf! You make some solid points. I suppose I did neglect the bartering aspect of financial security. I don't smoke and don't want to go out buying cigarettes, but I could definitely store up some alcohol. The small airplane type bottles could come in really handy for this purpose...plus alcohol serves a great first-aid function as well. I also agree ammo is good and canned food, and I would say small toiletries as well, like hotel soaps and small tubes of toothpaste. Anything you could divide up well to make some "go-away" packages as well.
As for bullion purchases, I use Scotsman coins in St. Louis. (scoins.com) I have found them to be comparable or better than most if not all online dealers and I have actually been in their store so I have some rapport with them. They also are flexible with payments and ship all over for $6.95. But the most important thing is to find a quality dealer you can trust.