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Gold futures reach record $4,013 per troy ounce amid economic uncertainty .

Investors flock to precious metals as a “safe haven” during U.S. government shutdown .

Silver futures also surge, up about 60% year-to-date.

Rising gold demand raises environmental concerns over mercury use in mining.

Gold futures have soared above $4,000 per troy ounce for the first time, as many investors seek a “safe haven” to park their money as the U.S. government shutdown continues.

Gold futures in New York jumped above the $4,000 mark Tuesday morning, marking a record high. The going price for New York spot gold had previously closed at $3,960.60 per troy ounce — the standard for measuring precious metals — on Monday.

Gold sales can rise sharply when anxious investors seek secur

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