The popularity of Costco’s gold bars has surged to such an extent that the company is now implementing stricter regulations on its precious metal sales. This increase in interest has prompted Costco to revise its purchasing policies in response to heightened demand.
Initially, members were permitted to purchase two 1-ounce, 24-karat gold bars per transaction. However, recent changes mean that while shoppers can still buy up to two bars, they are now limited to a single transaction every 24 hours. According to the current listings for the available 1-ounce gold bars on Costco’s website — specifically the Rand Refinery and PAMP Suisse Lady of Liberty — there is a clear notice stating, “Limit of 1 Transaction Per Membership, with a Maximum of 2 Units Per 24 Hours.”
In addition to gold bars, other gold and silver products offered on Costco.com also come with purchase restrictions. For instance, members can purchase up to two 1-ounce gold coins in a single transaction once every 24 hours. Moreover, the sale of 10-ounce silver bars is capped at one transaction, allowing a maximum of 10 units per day, further reflecting the company’s efforts to manage inventory effectively.
Since the launch of its 24-karat gold bars in 2023, Costco has gained significant attention and generated a notable buzz within the precious metals market. The Swiss and South African-made bullion has led to an online gold rush, with inventory selling out repeatedly due to overwhelming consumer interest. In its first-quarter earnings report for 2025, Costco identified gold as one of its top-selling product categories. Financial analysts at Wells Fargo estimate that the retailer’s sales of gold bars generate between $100 million and $200 million monthly.
The latest restrictions imposed by Costco seem to be a direct response to the skyrocketing demand for gold observed this year. In April, the price of gold reached unprecedented heights, primarily driven by economic uncertainty and escalating inflation concerns, which has led many to invest in tangible assets like gold. Since early 2024, the value of gold has surged by over 60%, reflecting the growing market interest.
For context, just two years ago, the price of the 1-ounce Rand Refinery bar listed on Costco’s website was slightly under ,000. Presently, that same bar is now valued at approximately $3,250, with the current market price for one ounce of gold hovering around ,295, illustrating the dramatic increase in gold prices.
Costco has yet to release an official statement or respond to inquiries regarding the rationale behind the newly introduced restrictions. Nevertheless, as members begin to notice these changes, reactions have been varied across online platforms.
One Reddit user on the r/CostcoPM (precious metals) thread stated, “Good, they should limit it to one,” expressing concerns regarding the overwhelming demand and the challenges already faced in acquiring even a single bar.
Conversely, others have voiced their dissatisfaction. “I’m not a flipper and regularly buy the max limit every order,” another user commented. “If it’s too restrictive, I can and will find better deals elsewhere,” highlighting the mixed feelings among members regarding the new purchasing limits.
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