Was there ever a time when you could buy direct from the U.S. Mint?

[dualstow]

I'm talking about 1 oz American eagles, bullion coins and not proofs or other collectibles. Does anyone know if there was a time when you could order bullion coins direct from the U.S. mint, or has one always had to go to a private dealer since the U.S. went off the gold standard?

Do you feel some people who have reservations about buying their first coin would more eagerly take the plunge if they could order direct, or you think this is a non-issue?

Imagine a world in which it was generally believed that everyone held some gold. Call it a bubble or call it a trend, but imagine a future with gold vending machines next to those that dispense Snickers bars. Imagine being able to get your bank withdrawals in American eagles instead of paper currency. Do you think this would change how you feel about the Permanent Portfolio?

[Ad Orientem]

To the best of my knowledge post 1972 gold has had to be purchased on the open market not via the mint or any other government agency.