The best places to buy gold coins online

If you're aiming to add some variety to your investment portfolio, don't overlook gold. It's often seen as a safe-haven asset : In times of economic or political turmoil, investors turn to gold because it has a long history of holding its value, and is a scarce resource. The precious metal is also considered an investment that can hedge against inflation. On May 7, gold reached a two-week high of $4,735.32 per ounce. But the precious metal hasn't performed as well as it did last year: Since the start of the year, prices have been on a rollercoaster, thanks in part to the Iran war. However, market watchers told CNBC that a rally in gold could start again if a U.S.-Iran peace settlement is reached. If you're interested in adding physical gold to your investing portfolio, there are several strategies. While gold bars and bullion are popular options, coins also have another layer of value — some have rare designs or historical significance, therefore commanding higher prices. There are many ways to buy gold coins online, but a few retailers shine for customer service, affordable shipping and ease of use. CNBC Select reviewed a dozen vendors and found four that stand out. (See more on how we chose our top places to buy gold coins in our methodology.) We want to hear your story Are you living paycheck to paycheck, or do you have a financial success you're comfortable sharing with a reporter? Please fill out this quick form . …