Minimums for Gold IRA – What's a decent starting point?

• •Been thinking a lot about diversifying what my grandfather left me, and honestly, the stock market volatility lately has my stomach churning.
• •My family’s always been in timber up here in Spokane, so I understand real assets, but this whole Gold IRA thing is relatively new to me.
• •I’ve seen some companies advertising pretty steep minimums, like $50k or even $25k to open a Gold IRA.

Been thinking a lot about diversifying what my grandfather left me, and honestly, the stock market volatility lately has my stomach churning. My family’s always been in timber up here in Spokane, so I understand real assets, but this whole Gold IRA thing is relatively new to me. I’m looking at potentially moving about $300k, maybe a bit more, into something physical, and gold coins feel like the right move, especially with how central banks are hoarding it these days.

I’ve seen some companies advertising pretty steep minimums, like $50k or even $25k to open a Gold IRA. Is that the norm? I understand they’ve got custodian fees and storage, but it just feels a little high if someone was just trying to dip their toes in. I’m not really "dipping my toes in" with the amount I'm considering, but it got me wondering about the accessibility for others.

Anyone here familiar with what a truly reasonable minimum looks like? I'm trying to figure out if these higher minimums translate to better service or if it's just a way to filter out smaller clients. Also, for those who’ve opened one, did you start with coins, and if so, any preferences? I’m leaning towards American Gold Eagles for their liquidity and recognition. I used that Gold IRA Calculator I found online to get a rough idea of what my portfolio might look like down the road with certain appreciation rates, and it was certainly eye-opening. Just trying to avoid any rookie mistakes here.