I like your thoughts here brattymack. This $900 level that is mentioned came from an interview from BNN. I forget who the analyst was. This remark he made was mentioned here about gold reaching $900 before resuming its upward trend. His words were to the effect that the price of gold may hit $900 before getting to the $1,200 or $1,500 level he was asked about. He seemed to base his idea more on the time of the year when gold hits its weak spot for demand. I'm not a real follower of gold but I do listen and consider the merits of what is said. I didn't think he was out of line even if we do not agree with him. Who really knows what the price may be in the future, either short term or long term. Short term it could be anywhere, but longer term almost anybody believes it will be higher.

As for paper currency, I can't see it losing its value as a trading vehicle. There isn't a currency in the world that isn't without its problems. Can you name me one? The Japanese yen has long lost its halo. The Euro was doing ok until Greece torpedoed it, and then Portugal, and now some other small countries chipped in. China isn't even considered because of its controls. That may change but until it does, it is on its own. So we come back to the U.S. dollar, and the U.S. economy, and the world takes refuge where one considers money safe, regardless of where we go in the future.

Now, none of the above changes anything you speak to. The dangers you mention are very real and a threat. Who really knows the future? Perhaps the safest place might end up being in our own mattrass. But don't tell anyone, please.