A survey of top economists reveals that a majority believe the troubling economic conditions that have brought turmoil to the financial markets will persist well into 2009.

The current economic malaise, a combination of a slowing economy and accelerating inflation, has been far worse than anyone predicted and it is clear that policymakers and economists are confused as to the best remedy.

This is important for hard asset investors because, while these conditions have touched off a bear market in real estate and stocks, tangible assets such as rare coins have performed exceedingly well.  The market for historically significant rare coins is growing and creating wealth for those who choose to invest in this market.