Commodities Oil Gold Metals. If you demand delivery, it could take some time to convert your share into actual physical coins or bullion that could then be shipped to you. Certain items, such as the cost of appraisals, can be added. The IRS does allow you to add certain costs to the basis, which can reduce your tax liability in the future. Short-term gains are taxed at the ordinary income tax rates that apply to other income such as wages. He became a member of the Society of Professional Journalists in Start by subtracting transaction costs from the sale price to find your net proceeds.