If you plan to hold gold several years, it seems like buying physical is better (to avoid the GLD management fees). This is assuming you can figure out the storage problem.
I won't pretend to know the sales tax laws in every state, but in Maryland they absolutely don't collect sales tax on gold or silver. Jewelry yes, but not coins and bullion.
there must be a reason why soros has both gold bullion and gold etfs. your knowledge of sales tax is plain wrong. if you know an exception please post it. anybody who looks for "one" best stock for... anything needs to develop a better understanding of markets.
If they print stock and stock options and sell in the market, I am sure they would make a lot of money.
Actually tandh may have to pay sales tax on gold purchases if he buys in a physical store in certain states. No matter where you live you can buy gold tax free online. I have a couple of friends who have made satisfactory online purchases of gold bullion. Reputable online vendors of bullion do exist.
Even if you avoid sales tax, you still have to pay capital gains and you have to worry about theft or pay for storage. AEM offers a 4% dividend at its current price. If gold goes up 100%, AEM will go up at least 300%, so you get a higher return, plus a dividend, and no storage cost.