During the economic downfall, a lot of people who have been investing on stocks have also fallen flat on the ground, so to speak. There is no assurance of gain. It may rise but it is also very possible to fall. Sure gain investments should be on things that are not depreciating like land and jewelry. Artifacts and old coins also appreciate. If you buy morgan silver dollars you can also sell them at a higher price later. Since they are coins, it is easy to store them too without much need for sensitive care. You can also use them as a gift to someone special.