In August 2011, gold hit a record $1,917.90/oz as concerns about the global economy plagued financial markets. The jitters centred mainly in Europe, which was reeling in the aftermath of the global financial crisis, with several eurozone countries unable to repay or refinance their government debt. Gold prices had started the year at just over $1,400/oz.
Get more information on the gold prices in this story and gold's record high on CNN Money, and The Guardian.