One difference is that gold is in limited supply, and cannot be instantly materialized by the State. Its scarcity, beauty and durability make it a natural store of value when the printing presses are running overtime.<p>Of course the State knows this too. In April 1933, less than one month after taking office, FDR signed an executive order confiscating all the private gold in the country. I wouldn't be surprised to see that happen again some day.