Catalog year: 2001

At the beginning of the year, the price per ounce of gold fluctuated around $270–$280. Up until the end of the year, there was an increase, especially after the September 11 terrorist attacks in the United States. By the end of the year, the price had risen to about $275–$290 per ounce. The debt situation of developing countries played a role in increasing interest in gold.
The price of silver in 2001 ranged between $4 and $4.50 per ounce.
Investment demand was less significant than industrial demand, but it still had an impact.
The price of platinum ranged between $500 and $600 per ounce. The main demand came from the automotive industry (catalysts) and jewelry.
Palladium cost about $500–$550 per ounce and was in demand for the same reasons as platinum. However, there were additional factors associated with high demand in the electronics industry.
Exchange-traded investment funds (ETFs) backed by physical metals were gaining popularity.
The estimated global gold production in 2001 was approximately 2,590 tons. The main gold producers were South Africa, Australia, the USA, China and Russia.
According to the USGS (Geological Survey), global silver production in 2001 was about 18,800 tons. The largest silver producers were Mexico, Peru, China, Australia and Poland.
At the time of 2001, the following mints can be distinguished among the most significant manufacturers:
The United States Mint - produces the famous "American Eagle" coins. Royal Canadian Mint - issues "Canadian Maple Leaf" coins. Australian Mint Perth - issues "Australian Kangaroo" and "Australian Koala" coins. The Austrian Mint - produces the Vienna Philharmonic. The Mint of China - produces "Panda".
However, "American Eagle" and "Canadian Maple Leaf" have traditionally been very popular among investors at this time.