You are correct that there are limited choices for a physical gold IRA. There are fancier grades of US Eagles that sell at a steep premium to the bullion-grade coins. It's been years since I opened this account, so I don't remember all the details. I do remember the broker recommending investment-grade Eagles for part of my portfolio, and I cannot echo that advice. Too much commission for him; too slow a return for the investor.
I don't know your investing background, but what I've found is that physical gold is not a good investment for the worrier. It can be pretty volatile, and if you're the kind of person who obsessively checks the DJIA ticker every few minutes, gold might give you heartburn. Another point: since it's in a custodial account, it may take at least a few days to liquidate or adjust your account. If gold is in a bubble and it bursts, you could lose thousands before you're able to close your position.
On the other hand, the Federal Reserve can't print gold, and I don't believe that the economic problems in the US and the EU are going to blow over any time soon. I think gold has a ways to run yet, but if I'm wrong then I'll get an expensive lesson. Won't be the first or the last...
