The US Government will not nationalize the mines. You need Geologists, experienced miners , managers etc in large numbers in order to take them over and make them productive and profitable & the government has few if any , & those who are in place now under free enterprize won't stay unless paid fairly for their skills , efforts & capital. Yes, the Government could order all gold produced be turned over to the govmt, but they will have to pay a fair price , including a profit , or it will stay in the ground. Also , we all know how poorly the government runs things such as the US Post Office, veterans care, etc . So in my opinion you are far safer in precious metal mining stocks than in the physical coins , bars etc that can be easily confiscated, or even banned from trade , but you don't kill the geese that lay the golden eggs , especially if the mining stocks you own are listed and owned in Canada . LINDY