Nobody knows for sure, but I think the precious metals are due for another rise soon, and I think that silver is probably a better bet than gold at this juncture.
Also, if you’re talking about survival, then I’m not sure how much good a gold bar would be, especially if you’re talking about moderate funds. Most likely silver coins would be a better bet, and nothing fancy at that, but just something you could exchange with real people in the neighborhood.
You might also want to give some thought to useful stuff that will keep, like toothpaste, aspirin, bandaids, toilet paper, soap, razor blades. If the S doesn’t HTF, then you can always use that kind of stuff, and it will probably keep going up in price, so the money’s not wasted. FWIW, I find that beer will keep in a cool place out of the sun for at least a year.
Lighters, and smokes.
An ounce of gold is very compact and has tremendous purchasing power but would be useless in a barter situation as how would anyone make change for a $1700 bar of gold?
Coins, preferably of US mint of pre-1964 vintage, are 90% silver. They are easy to recognize, come in small enough increments which makes it reasonable to barter, and are easy to acquire (APMEX for one) any amount from one at a time to sacks of a specified face value, priced at current spot price for silver content.
If your looking for a hedge against hyperinflation either gold or silver bullion is preferred over junk coins. Know your dealer, fake bullion (loaded with tungsten) is out there.
Regards,
GtG