Background
American Eagle Gold Proof Coins are collectible versions of the official United States Mintprecious metal coinsproduced since 1986. They are available in four sizes: one ounce, half ounce, quarter ounce and one tenth ounce. All American Eagle Gold Proof Coins contain 91.67 percent (22 carat) gold. The weight and diameter of the gold vary by coin denomination, as shown below. The coins are marked with the U.S. Mint at West Point and bears the mint mark "W".
The obverse features the Liberty figure that has been used on gold coins since 1986. The design was inspired by Augustus Saint-Gaudens' famous 1907 gold $20 piece, the "Double Eagle". In 2021, the coin celebrated its 35th anniversaryAmerican Eagle Coin-programmawith a new design. The mint used historic assets such as the original bronze casting to better reflect Saint-Gaudens' original vision. The update includes changes to the Capitol, stars, torches, sunbeams, and other design elements.
Since 2021, the back shows a portrait of an eagle. To give the new coins a higher level of security, they have also been updated with enhanced security features, including an edge variant.
From 1986 to 2021, the reverse, by sculptor Miley Busiek, depicted an eagle with an olive branch flying over a nest containing another eagle and young.
In 2020, the United States Mint produced a special 75th Anniversary of the End of World War II American Eagle Gold Proof Coin with a "V75" marking. The outline of the secret mark represents the shape of the Rainbow Pool at the World War II Memorial in Washington, DC.
Characteristics
The obverse shows a reproduction of Augustus Saint-Gaudens' full-length figure of Lady Liberty, with wavy hair, holding a torch in her right hand and an olive branch in her left hand.
Since 2021, the back shows a portrait of an eagle.
Cover inscriptions
Reverse inscriptions
- THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
- OUT OF MANY, ONE
- ON GOD WE STAND
Coin and mint mark
Specifications
The composition is 91.67% gold, 3% silver, the rest copper with a reed edge. Weight and diameter vary between one-, half-, quarter-, and tenth-ounce sizes.
- The one-ounce coin, with a face value of $50, has a diameter of 1.287 inches (32.70 mm), contains one gold troy ounce and weighs 1.0909 troy ounces (33.931 g).
- The half-ounce coin, with a face value of $25, has a diameter of 27.00 mm (1.063 in), contains 0.5000 troy ounces of gold and weighs 0.5455 troy ounces (16.966 g).
- A quarter-ounce coin, face value $10, is 0.866 inches (22.00 mm) in diameter, contains 0.2500 gold troy ounces, and weighs 0.2727 troy ounces (8.483 g).
- The one-tenth ounce coin, with a face value of $5, has a diameter of 0.650 inches (16.50 mm), contains 0.1000 gold troy ounces and weighs 0.1091 troy ounces (3.393 g).
Information about artists
Reversed- Designer:Augustus Saint-Gaudens
Backwards Related information
Content last reviewed on June 14, 2021
FAQs
American Eagle Gold coins offer several benefits to investors who want to diversify their portfolios with gold or other precious metals. They are a popular coin for collectors and investors, which can lead to steady prices. They're also guaranteed to be high-quality coins made with investment-grade gold.
How much is a 1 oz gold eagle coin worth? ›
American Eagles 1 Ounce
| Weight: | Spot Price: | Buy Price: |
|---|
| 1.00 oz | $ 2,337.03 | $ 2,467.90 |
All American Eagle Gold Proof Coins contain 91.67 percent (22-karat) gold.
How much gold is in a $5 Gold Eagle? ›
The $5 Gold Coin is relatively light, with no real weight felt when holding it. For a more specific answer, the gross weight of the coin is 0.1091 troy ounces or 3.393 grams. The gold that resides within the coin weighs 0.10 troy ounces or about 3.110 grams.
Are 1/10 oz gold coins worth buying? ›
Fractional gold coins often come with higher premiums compared to larger gold bars or full-sized coins. These premiums can erode your potential gains over time, so fractional gold coins may not be the best strategy for someone who plans to put a lot of money into gold.
Is it better to buy bullion or proof coins? ›
Bullion Coins: Ideal for those who prioritize the metal's market value. Bullion coins are a straightforward way to invest in precious metals, offering a tangible asset that mirrors current market prices. Proof Coins: Suited for collectors and those who appreciate artistry and rarity.
Do gold proof coins hold value? ›
The value of Proof coins is almost always going to be more significant than that of a similar uncirculated, non-proof coin (when discounting other numismatic coins, such as key dates, errors, etc.).
What is the best gold coin to buy for investment? ›
Let's take a close look at each of these 9 best-selling gold coins in the world.
- Krugerrand. Manufacturer: South African Mint. ...
- Vienna Philharmonic. Manufacturer: Austrian Mint. ...
- Canadian Gold Maple Leaf. Manufacturer: Royal Canadian Mint. ...
- Australian Gold Kangaroo (Australian Gold Nugget) ...
- British Britannia. ...
- Chinese Gold Panda.
The coins are 22-karat gold, plus small amounts of alloy. This creates harder coins that resist scratching and marring, which can diminish resale value. Bullion coins are coins whose weight, content and purity are guaranteed by the United States government.
How much can I sell an American Eagle gold coin for? ›
What is the current value of a one ounce Gold American Eagle coin? The current ask purchase price for a one ounce American Gold Eagle is: $2,444.80 and the current Monex bid selling price for one ounce Gold Eagle coin is: $2,360.80.
Local coin dealers and pawn shops offer a straightforward, quick selling process. They are ideal if you're looking for an immediate sale.
Why is American Eagle gold coin so expensive? ›
Each coin is composed of 91.67 percent gold, with the remainder being a mixture of silver and copper. This alloy increases the coin's resistance to scratches and damage, ensuring its longevity and contributing to its higher cost.
Are gold proof coins worth buying? ›
Collectability and Rarity
In contrast, proof coins may gain additional value due to their scarcity, artistic appeal, and historical significance. Proof coins are often issued in limited quantities, with special editions and commemorative themes, making them particularly appealing to collectors.
Do proof coins go up in value? ›
Over time, the limited availability of certain proof coins can lead to an increase in their numismatic value. Collectors appreciate the look and feel of proof coins, especially proofs of existing popular precious metal coins.
Are golden eagles worth buying? ›
The American Gold Eagle is a very attractive coin with a strong patriotic image. It's also a convenient and cost effective way of adding gold to your investment portfolio.
Do gold eagles hold their value? ›
“Due to their secure nature, high quality, and American orientation.” “22-karat gold, with small amounts of alloy, making the coin harder and more resistant to scratching and marring, retaining a high resale value.”
