Costco has been placing new limits on gold purchases in recent months as the metal's popularity surges

A one-ounce gold bar sold at Costco. The wholesale club has placed additional purchasing limits on its gold offerings in recent months.

Dominick Reuter/Business Insider

• Several precious metal listings on Costco's website have had transaction limits tightened this year.
• Even with earlier restrictions, the company said its inventory sold out "within a few hours."
• Gold prices have reached record highs, and Costco has been a popular source for new collectors.

Sometimes things are a little too popular.