You have made a substantial investment in precious metals, so it’s natural you’d want to protect it.
While the most recommended (and reliable) method for storing valuables is inside a safe secured to the floor, sometimes that’s not a viable option.
Whether you’re renting a home, traveling or need a more affordable way to store your prized possessions, there are several clever solutions.
False Book
This old standby is a great option because it’s so easy to make on your own. Just get an old book — something you would realistically have on your shelf — and follow one of the many online tutorials. You’ll need an Exacto knife, basic glue, and some spare time. Or buy one with even more advanced security.
Shoebox
If you need a quick fix, let your clutter work for you. Keep several organizing boxes in the top of a closet or under the bed. One (or several) can be used to store valuables. Be sure to put a box containing something else on top to serve as a decoy.
Power Socket
Buy or make a power socket replacement. You won’t be able to use the plug, but it will provide a difficult place for a burglar to reach.
Empty Paint Can
After you finish your renovation, keep a paint can around the garage. Let the paint dry, then fill with your coins or rounds. (You may want to wrap them carefully to prevent jangling.) Store the paint can in your garage or in an out-of-the-way closet.
False-Bottom Drawer
If you were handy in wood shop, you should be able to create a drawer with a false bottom. Advanced designs can be made so that it can be opened only a certain way, but more basic designs require just a piece of pressed wood and some common tools. Here’s a great basic tutorial.
Diversion Safe
A number of products are available that already work as secret safes. Diversion safes are disguised as common everyday objects, such as soda cans, hairspray or tire sealant. They frequently come with false bottoms — some even contain the product they advertise. Keep your diversion safe in a place where it would make sense to find the product — for example, keep a hairspray diversion safe in a cabinet in the bathroom.
In a Flowerpot
If you don’t mind getting your hands (and metals!) a bit dirty, a flowerpot is an excellent hiding place. Be sure to secure your gold or silver in an Airtite or other case to protect against tarnish, then bury it in a flowerpot on your porch or in your home. Add a decorative plant to complete the look and add a bit of color to your home.
Tucked Away
If you need a quick-fix, stash your metals underneath heavy furniture, such as under a tall bookcase that has a small space between the furniture and the floor. You may even be able to tape coins or rounds to the bottom. You could also tape or glue metals to the back of a picture frame — make sure the picture lies flat when it is turned the right way, and no one will suspect it as a hiding place.
Puppy Chow
Pet food often comes in large plastic containers. Save one the next time Fido finishes dinner and line the inside bottom with your valuables, then pour the next bag on top to hide the shine of your silver or gold. This would also work with cat food, loose detergent, or even fertilizer.
Of course, these storage places don’t have many of the security features you might need, and do come with added risks. If you utilize an atypical hiding place, make sure well-intentioned loved ones don’t disturb the hiding spot (or worse, throw it away).
What unusual places do you store your diamonds, silver and gold? Share suggestions below or via our Facebook, Twitter and Google+ profiles.
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