The Process and Risks of Cutting a Gold Bar in Half
Gold bars are highly valued assets, often used for investment and storage. While owning a gold bar is a preferred way to preserve wealth, there may come a time when you need to divide it. Despite its soft nature, cutting a gold bar in half requires careful planning, safety precautions, and the right tools. This article outlines the process, challenges, and considerations involved in sawing a gold bar in two.
Preparation and Safety Precautions
Before you start, it’s crucial to ensure you have the right tools and protective equipment to avoid damage and injury.
Tools Required:
- A high-quality saw: A hacksaw or a band saw with a fine-toothed blade is ideal for cutting through gold.
- A vice or clamps to hold the bar securely.
- Safety equipment: Goggles and gloves to protect against metal shards.
Preparation:
Secure the Gold Bar: Ensure the gold bar is firmly held in a vice or clamped to prevent movement during the cutting process. This is essential for maintaining precise control and avoiding injury.
Clean and Well-Lit Work Area: Work in a clean, well-lit area to enhance visibility and precision.
Marking and Cutting the Gold Bar
Marking the Cut: Use a marker to clearly indicate the midpoint where the cut is to be made. A straight edge can help you ensure an even cut.
Initial Cutting: Begin sawing gently to create a groove along the marked line. It’s important to let the saw do the work rather than forcing it, as this can lead to a crooked cut.
Maintain Pressure: Apply steady and even pressure while moving the saw back and forth smoothly. This helps maintain an accurate cut and avoids unnecessary wear on the saw.
Finishing the Cut: As you approach the end of the cut, be cautious to avoid sudden breaks or splintering. Ensure the cut is complete and then clean up any sharp edges with a file or sandpaper.
Post-Cutting Considerations
Preserve Metal for Further Use: If the goal is to preserve the metal for future use, consider melting down the pieces or refining them. Consult with professionals to achieve optimal results.
Value and Legality:
Value: Cutting a gold bar in half will impact its resale value. It is often more practical to sell or trade the bar as a whole.
Legality: Ensure that cutting the gold bar does not violate any laws or regulations regarding property or currency. Check with legal experts or consult local laws to avoid any issues.
Real-World Example
Gold does not always need to be sawed in half. In a unique situation, I had some gold ingots. A bank bag fell causing one of the ingots to balance on a split shelf in a safe, storing jewelry in the ingots’ storeboxes. A bag of rolled coins, mainly pre-1967 quarters, nickels, dimes, and pennies, weighing approximately 50 quarters and 50 mixed coins, was also placed on the shelf. The ingot had a distinct mark, almost cutting it in half.
For those who are confident in their sawing skills, the process can be completed without the need for a hacksaw. If you have a brick saw or a saw for angle iron, you can achieve the same result, just be mindful of the dust produced during the cutting process.