How to invest in GOLD?

I'd like to invest in GOLD to hedge and as a long-term investment. But I don't really want to buy Gold ETFs or (vintage) gold coins from stores. Please recommend reliable banks or brokers in US that can help small investors like me invest in gold. Thank you. :) ps, I won't chase the past returns. Also, does someone know the difference between Gold and Gold Future ?

Public Comments

1. Why wouldn't you buy GLD, the ETF? It mirrors the performance of the physical but it much, much more liquid. And you don't need to buy a safe in which to store it. Typically, if you don't want to buy coins then you have to deal with a metals dealer, and they typically charge very high commissions on sales. If you are buying less than a few million USD worth of physical gold, go with an ETF -- there is no reason not to. D
2. You could buy stock in a gold mine
3. i go personally to MTB on Broad Street in Manhattan only because i live here and can do so. they also do remote business in case you don't live nearby. check them out and see what they can do for you. numismatic coins have a market of their own aside from the metals price, and ETFs are one degree less secure from owning bullion outright, so you might as well buy the metal.
4. unless you are investing megic bucks you are better off with etf's!!!