The United States is experiencing a new kind of gold rush as many Americans are queuing up to sell their gold trinkets simply to make ends meet.

The value of gold is on the rise, and any income people can get in such a credit crisis is welcome.

Experts have warned, however: the rush to cash in on gold is shortsighted.

“All the way from a late spouse's wedding ring, to a grandfather's pocket watch – everything sentimental. They're destitute at this point and desperate for funds," says Nancy Metropolis, owner of American Gold Exchange in New Jersey.

Droves of customers are unloading their treasure chest of valuables in hope that the returns will pay for car repairs, electricity bills, or food.

"Some weeks are bad. Sometimes it's hard to pay the bills," says local resident Ariel Mercado who sold his gold for cash.

The possibilities to sell gold are now …