Older proof gold coins would be out of most peoples reach and are not always available even if one does have the cash. With the price of gold these days most modern gold coin denominations are just there to make it so-called legal tender. No one would spend a $5 gold coin as five dollars. Proof gold coins are a collector item or at least they want you to think that. They cost far more than the gold in them is worth. One takes a chance in buying one hoping the mintage stays low and people will keep collecting them. To me it is an unwise investment. Forget the proof thing and buy an older coin in the highest grade you can afford and make sure it is one of the semi key coins. That is it does not have the lowest mintage but is lower than most of the common types. See a couple of coin dealers for their opinion. If they try to sell you modern gold bullion see someone else. Modern gold coins are more for IRAs and the such and don't seem to have a high collector base only an investor base. I would like to have a coin that has both bases and that is the real thing that was once really money. Hope this helps.