Dollar vs. Gold Purchasing Power Timeline

Gold as Inflation Hedge: A Year-by-Year Comparison of $10,000 in Cash vs. Physical Gold

Interactive Analysis

Dollar vs. Gold Purchasing Power Timeline

See how $10,000 has lost value since 1971 — and how gold has preserved wealth through every era of inflation.

Select Year 1971
1971 1990 2000 2010 2024
Starting amount:
$
$
Dollar Value Today
$10,000
Equivalent purchasing power
-0%
Gold Value Today
$10,000
Same gold, priced in today's dollars
+0%

Select a year to see the purchasing power comparison.

Purchasing Power Over Time

All values normalized to your starting amount in the selected year

Full Timeline Breakdown

YearGold Price/ozDollar (CPI Adj.)Gold HoldingsMultiplier
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Disclaimer: This tool is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, or tax advice. Gold prices and CPI figures are approximate historical values. Past performance of any asset, including gold, is not a guarantee of future results. Purchasing power calculations use U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics CPI data and London Bullion Market Association gold price benchmarks. Gold IRA investments involve risk, including possible loss of principal. Always consult a licensed financial advisor before making investment decisions. This page may contain affiliate links; we may earn a commission at no additional cost to you.