I've been buying gold for many years, starting around $500.00 per ounce. Each year I buy a couple of 1 oz coins, put them in a safety deposit box and forget about them. Now, if things really get bad I have a back up to everything else. If they don't, my kids will inherit them someday.
As the U.S. dollar loses value, gold will keep going up. But it doesn't really matter since I don't plan to use them except in case of an emergency. And, I give my kids a one ounce silver coin each Christmas....gold costs too much. I have old coins from my parents.......never sold one, some are 75 years old. I have no idea what they are worth but, years ago, my kids loved to play with them and each time I look at them it is with fond memories.
If I was on a tight budget I'm not sure I would do this. But, they've been a great investment, lots of fun and a security blanket. To each their own, I guess. Hope this helps you decide on gold for yourself.