Thought to be one of the first known metals, gold has been coveted throughout history for its beauty, scarcity, malleability, and uncanny resistance to rust and corrosion. Centuries ago, gold's unique combination of properties -- its sun-like color, its soft hardness and especially its imperviousness to decay -- imbued it with magical associations in the eyes of many. Because of these unique properties, gold has traditionally been the currency of choice for much of the world's population. The value of gold has transcended all national, political, and cultural borders, to become a desired asset. It in the form of coins and bars has attracted investments across various cultures for centuries.