Dave; you said, "Look at true antiques- art, 17th century furniture, rare American coins- the best examples of these items will hold their value in the worst economic times."

Yes and no. I don't know how many recessions you have experienced Dave. But it is my recollection that collectibles across the board took significant hits. However, like the stock market, for those who have the financial resources and a strong stomach, history has proven that sometimes these were the best times to purchase these items that were depressed in price because as the "good-times" returned, the prices shot back up. Some folks are still waiting for the gold and silver markets to return to their glorious years of 1980. Silver was $50 an ounce twenty years ago, gold was being predicted to break $1000 per ounce. Check today's newspaper for current gold and silver price levels and see if it's worth the wait to hold on longer.