This did happen 15 years ago or so. Not saying it is the same. It's okay to dip your toes into "fizz" (physical precious metals bullion)
Coins are expensive, and have certain legal advantages. "Junk silver coins" are circulated 90% silver us currency. These are also "coins" being us currency. Junk is fun but there are no collector pieces in there. "Rounds" are like coins but do not enjoy the legal designation of coins. They are coins to you, but not to the government. You can buy small bars - say 1 ounce - again not having legal status of coins. There is the antique market, which is also legally different. It is a little complicate. If you want some just do it is my advice. It will never go to zero, but may get confiscated by the man.
I bought some silver at then highs, and it is much higher today. Glad to have it. May get some more.
Valcambi makes these credit card sized bars that break into 1g pieces. Kind of cool. You can keep one in your wallet.
I don't know if it's a great buy right now. I think silver will go higher, but it's going to have one hell of a correction,
When you realize what is driving this run up, then you will realize historical price action is about as useless as tits on a boar hog when looking for a correction.
Except I've heard that yarn before in 2000 and again in 2008. This time it could be different, or maybe not.