Actually, Bits and Bobs was never intended to be removed from hard mode. It was originally set to unlock only once the player had purchased the backpack (since the Torch requires a backpack slot). In hard mode, where there's no backpack available, that meant Bits and Bobs didn't unlock. Now that we have ore exchange available there and not just consumable sales, it makes sense to adjust things. I'll be removing the backpack requirement for unlocking Bits and Bobs, and instead, I'll have the Torch simply show or hide depending on whether you have a backpack.
As for selling gold ore, that is definitely planned (and even titanium once future ores are introduced, hint hint). I'll be rolling gold and titanium ore exchange out gradually though, once older players have had time to stock up a bit more.