Are you planning to secure your hard-earned income by investing in precious metals? While gold and silver have long been considered safe havens, selecting the right investment partner can be overwhelming with the numerous companies in the marketplace. Not every provider delivers on transparency, customer service, and security.
After spending over two decades in the precious metals industry, I’ve researched and reviewed dozens of companies to help investors make informed decisions. In this review, we’ll take a close look at Orion Metal Exchange its products, services, online reputation, pros, cons, and whether it’s worth considering as your investment partner.
Orion Metal Exchange: Company Overview
Founded by Jacob Blalock and headquartered in Los Angeles, California, Orion Metal Exchange is a precious metals investment company backed by decades of industry expertise. Jacob brings over 40 years of investment knowledge and has shaped Orion’s commitment to transparency, investor education, and personalized support.
The company offers:
- A dedicated in-house IRA department
- Real-time market pricing charts
- Buyback services
- Nationwide partnerships with custodians and depositories
- Insured delivery for physical assets
One standout quality that sets Orion apart is its willingness to guide investors even those who may not become clients. This customer-first approach has earned Orion a solid reputation across major consumer review platforms.
What Orion Metal Exchange Offers
Precious Metals Selection
Orion provides a wide range of IRA-approved coins and bars in gold, silver, platinum, and palladium. Popular options include:
- Gold American Eagle & Canadian Maple Leaf
- Proof Gold & Silver Eagles
- IRA-approved bullion bars
- Platinum & Palladium Eagles and Maple Leafs
Their inventory is extensive, though availability may vary depending on market supply.
Precious Metals IRA
Orion’s main area of expertise lies in precious metals IRAs. Their in-house IRA team handles the entire process, from account setup to rollover assistance. Unlike many competitors, Orion works with all custodians and depositories nationwide, ensuring investors get the best fit for their needs.
The process typically involves:
- Speaking with an IRA representative for guidance
- Rolling over funds from an existing retirement account
- Selecting a custodian and insured depository
This streamlined approach makes Orion a strong choice for retirement-focused investors.
Storage Options
Orion partners with third-party insured depositories across the U.S. All storage is insured through Lloyd’s of London, offering peace of mind that assets are secure.
Insured Home Delivery
For investors preferring physical possession, Orion offers insured shipping with tracking numbers. Orders are typically delivered within 5–7 business days, though check payments may extend delivery to 10–12 days.
Buyback Program
When it’s time to sell, Orion’s buyback services ensure a smooth process. Investors can:
- Take physical custody of metals from their IRA, or
- Liquidate assets for cash (usually within 3–5 business days)
This makes Orion a convenient option for both long-term holders and those looking for liquidity.
Investor Tools: Charts & News
- Charts: Orion provides 10-year price charts for gold, silver, platinum, and palladium, helping investors analyze trends.
- News Section: The site features updates on precious metals markets, giving clients insights into current trends and strategies.
Fees & Transparency
One drawback of Orion Metal Exchange is its lack of publicly listed fees. While their IRA department claims to help clients find the lowest-cost custodians, the absence of upfront fee information may be frustrating for investors who value complete transparency.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Wide selection of gold, silver, platinum, and palladium
- In-house IRA department with nationwide custodian partnerships
- Free investor kit with educational resources
- Buyback program with fast liquidation
- Real-time pricing charts available online
- Insured storage and home delivery
Cons
- Website lacks clear fee structure
- Product availability may fluctuate
Final Verdict: Is Orion Metal Exchange Worth It?
Orion Metal Exchange has built a strong reputation as a reliable precious metals IRA provider. From insured storage to customer-first support, the company delivers on most fronts. Their positive track record across BBB, Consumer Affairs, and TrustPilot reinforces their credibility.
However, the lack of transparent fee details remains a drawback. For this reason, I recommend contacting an Orion representative directly to confirm costs before committing.
If you value a wide selection of precious metals, hands-on IRA support, and a proven buyback program, Orion Metal Exchange is certainly worth considering.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a 1099-B IRS form?
A 1099-B is a tax document that reports proceeds from the sale of stocks, bonds, and other securities, including precious metals. If you sell metals from your IRA or personal holdings, Orion (or your custodian) may issue this form to the IRS and to you.
When is a 1099-B filed?
It is typically filed after a sale transaction is completed and reported in the tax year it occurs. For example, if you liquidate gold in 2026, you’ll receive the 1099-B for your 2026 tax return.
What percentage of my portfolio should I invest in precious metals?
Most financial experts recommend 5–15% of your portfolio in physical assets like gold and silver. However, the exact percentage depends on your risk tolerance, retirement timeline, and broader investment goals. It’s always best to consult a financial advisor or CPA before deciding.
