Gold is always a good investment. It has an almost guaranteed resale value that is at least the price of purchase. This is specially true for heirloom pieces like jewelry or coins. Gold can be traded anywhere and is not subject to currency fluctuations due to political or economic down trends. Also, the price of gold is on the upward trend and buying gold now can produce hefty dividends for later trade.
Most people buy gold in bullion form of one troy ounce each. This type of gold bullion is a large piece of gold and has high value. This does not allow easy transport. Thus, some people buy bullion coins instead. These are twenty-four carat or pure gold coins of roughly USD 1100 or so worth. Thus, these are smaller and easier to carry and conversion to cash is easier because of its smaller value. Thus, if you have the cash to invest in something that lasts and sure to retain value, buy gold bullion or coins.