With regard to the radio commercials, there is one advertising heavily in NY. It lists a famous person as a spokesman and offers free books and CD. Basically it pushes rare gold coins as the best way to invest in gold. BE ULTRA CAUTIOUS. One of the people involved with this, was in trouble years earlier with selling coins at multiples of its true value. With etf's, gold bullion, etc., you know the true value. With coins you are at the mercy of the dealer and what grading they use.

I am not saying whether gold will or won't be a good investment, but if you decide to include it in your portfolio; go with a legitimate fund, etf, or actual bullion - stay away from collector coins (unless you intend to become an expert).