American Gold Eagle
American Gold Eagle 1/2 oz 2021 Brilliant Uncirculated Condition. The American Gold Eagle 1/2 oz 2021 is a popular gold bullion choice worldwide. In 1986, the United States Mint introduced the American Gold Eagle series in four sizes (1 oz, ½ oz, ¼ oz and 1/10 oz). From 1986 through 1991 the US Mint used Roman Numerals to date the coins.
In 1986, the United States began striking gold bullion coins to compete with world bullion competitors, such as the Canadian Gold Maple Leaf, the South African Gold Krugerrand, and the Chinese Gold Panda. The value of these coins was intended to be tied directly to their metal value, although in some cases (where mintages were low), a collector market has developed. The bullion value of these coins far outstrips their face value, making them the ideal product for numismatists and investors.
- The Golden Eagle is one of the largest, fastest, nimblest raptors in North America. Lustrous gold feathers gleam on the back of its head and neck; a powerful beak and talons advertise its hunting prowess. You're most likely to see this eagle in western North America, soaring on steady wings or diving in pursuit of the jackrabbits and other small mammals that are its main prey.
- CH/GEM BU RANDOM YEAR 1 OZ. $50 AMERICAN EAGLE GOLD UNITED STATES COIN 1 OUNCE. 2021 American Silver Eagle Coin BU in U.S Mint Box. 3 FOR 1 PRICE MINI ST GAUDENS COINS 1/2 GRAM BULLION FREE SHIP BUY MORE DISCOUNT.
The US American Gold Eagle represents the US entry into Gold Bullion investing and became the first gold coin to be minted, in the US, since 1933. When the Gold Bullion Act of 1985 was passed, the legislation demanded that there would be four weight sizes offered and two different types of coins minted. This resulted in the American Gold Eagle containing the 1 oz, 1/2 oz, 1/4 oz, and 1/10 oz in sizes. There were also two conditions minted, brilliant uncirculated and proof (although the proof condition was only offered in 1 oz increments at first). The legislation also specified that the precious metals used, in the making of the American Gold Eagle, would come from US mines. Depending on the year, size of the coin, and market demand, the Gold Eagles' mintages vary greatly. The American Gold Eagle is released annually and displays the same design. The US Mint throws out its dies each year to ensure a crisply minted coin every time.
American Gold Eagle Bullion Coins
Brilliant Uncirculated American Gold Eagles are produced more than the other types of Gold Eagles and contain a matte finish. Although brilliant uncirculated condition constitutes a coin with no signs of wear, scratching, or anything else that might indicate circulation, it is common for these coins to obtain breaks in luster, contact marks, or spotted surfaces; all of these are results from the minting process and do not decrease the coin's value as a brilliant uncirculated coin. Brilliant uncirculated American Gold Eagles are packaged in tubes of 20 coins, sealed by the US Mint.
American Gold Eagle Coin Composition
The American Gold Eagle is considered to be 22-karats, instead of the ideal 24-karats. The 22-karat alloy is also referred to as 'crown gold' since this was the English standard of metal content and hasn't been used since 1834. The American Gold Eagle actually contains one solid ounce of .999 pure gold, and it also weighs more than one ounce, due to the silver and copper added. This alloy of metals results in a wear-resistant coin, allowing for it to uphold over time. Both the weight and gold purity are authorized by the US Mint and are recognized, by the US Congress, as true gold bullion coins.
Design History of American Gold Eagles
Reimagined by sculptor, Miley Busiek, the design of the US American Gold Eagle features the most iconic US coin design. The obverse follows the artistic design created by Augustus Saint-Gaudens, for the $20 Gold Double Eagles, issued from 1907-1933. Saint-Gaudens was exclusively picked by president, Theodore Roosevelt, to design an image that would be a part of US history, while also reinvigorating US gold coinage. The Lady Liberty design has been used as a symbol of patriotism since the US began minting their own currency and her message of courage and power still reigns true.
The design features a fierce Lady Liberty carrying an olive branch in one hand and an ignited torch in the other. The olive branch represents the country's desire for ultimate peace. The torch is the symbol of enlightenment and has been used, in the United States, as a means to freedom and liberty; enlightenment births freedom. Lady Liberty is stressed in a loose and flowing robe, marching with the US Capital building behind her. Next to her is the coin's date of mintage; from 1986-1991, the coin's date was cast in Roman Numerals, instead of the familiar Arabic Numeral System. Along the rim are 50 stars, each representing a US state, a design that has been used on other emblematic US coins, such as the Morgan Silver Dollar. The original design featured only 46 stars, since that was how many states existed from 1907-1933.
The reverse displays the emblem of the nation, hand-picked by the Founding Fathers. The bald eagle is the king of the birds of prey and represents fierce beauty, strength, and independence. There are 3 bald eagles represented on the reverse design of the American Gold Eagle. The eagles have made a nest of olive branches and have started reproducing, with an infantile eagle represented under its mother. The coin's weight, purity, and monetary value are written underneath the eagle family.
Proof American Gold Eagle Coins
The Proof American Gold Eagles were minted, in just 1 oz increments, in 1986. By 1988, the Proof American Gold Eagle Coin became available in four sizes: 1 oz, 1/2 oz, 1/4 oz, and 1/10 oz. Unlike its brilliant uncirculated counterpart, the Proof American Gold Eagle's packaging is more aesthetically pleasing. The coin itself is encased in an appropriately fitted capsule then placed into a velvet presentation box with its Certificate of Authenticity. The presentation box is then protected by an official US Mint cardboard box.
Since the Proof American Gold Eagles are not minted, at the same rate as the brilliant uncirculated coins, their value is higher and is the ideal investment not just for collectors, but investors as well. The proof finish is described as mirror-like and although it contains the same alloy as the brilliant uncirculated version, making it a more durable coin, the proof finish is more sensitive to contact, resulting in an easily scratched coin. Numismatists prefer keeping their Proof Gold Eagles in their original packaging for protection.
All American Gold Eagles contain values that transcend the market rate of gold, since they also have select mintages and a monetary denomination, but the Proof American Gold Eagles can carry a value greater than any other Gold Eagle, specifically if it's certified.
Burnished American Gold Eagle Coins
A term that was introduced recently, in 2006, 'burnished' refers to where and how the American Gold Eagle was minted. All Burnished American Gold Eagles sport a 'W' mint-mark, signifying its place of origin: the West Point Mint. Celebrating the successful 20th anniversary of the American Gold Eagle series, the US Mint released a new coin to join the record-breaking program. A burnished coin was produced for each size variety (1 oz, 1/2 oz, 1/4 oz, and 1/10 oz), but switched to only minting 1 oz coins in 2009, due to a stall in proof and burnished Gold Eagle production.
The US Mint claims that the actual process of minting the burnished coins is very similar to the proof version but the outcome is quite different. Burnished coins greatly resemble brilliant uncirculated Gold Eagles, wherein they carry that same frosted finish, instead of a glossy one. The complicated and precise process begins with a blank put through a spinning drum. When that blank comes out, on the other end, a specialist handles the coin with white gloves to ensure maximum care. The coin is then placed, by hand, into the coin press, where a high pressure strike is released. This gives the burnished coin a more refined look, making every little detail sharper. Although the finish, of the burnished coin, has a matted look, the background is more mirror-like, giving the illusion that Lady Liberty is floating.
Certified American Gold Eagle Coins
As most coin collectors and numismatists know, a coin can be a considered brilliant uncirculated or proof, but that's just the beginning of identifying a coin's value. Dr. William Sheldon was an American psychologist by trade and a numismatist as a hobby. In 1948, Sheldon developed the Sheldon Numeric Scale, which became the foundation of grading and certifying coins. The Sheldon Numeric Scale dictates that a coin's condition can fall between 1 and 70. Before this groundbreaking system, coins were graded mostly by physical appearance and could receive one of three grades.
There are many coin grading agencies out there but only two that are revered worldwide. The Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC) and the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) are two companies that issue coins their grades. These companies not only certify coins, but they also encase the graded coin into an official holder, preserving the coin and marking the holder with its earned grade. This alone has changed the coin collecting game, while also offering a peace of mind for collectors and investors.
When purchasing a Certified American Gold Eagle, there is information provided on the coin holder that is important to know. The first thing to notice is the coin's strike type:
- MS: Short for 'Mint-State;' refers to coins that have never been in circulation and are the same condition as when they were originally produced. Mint State coins will receive a grade ranging from 60-70 on the Sheldon Numeric Scale.
- PF/PR: Abbreviation for 'Proof;' refers to the method of coin manufacture, made for eye appeal among collectors.
- SP: A 'specimen' coin is a combination of strike type (somewhere in the middle of Mint State and Proof).
A Certified American Gold Eagle (or any certified bullion coin) will most likely come in one of two grades:
- MS/PF70: Bullion coins that have kept their original mint luster and contain zero post production flaws.
- MS/PF69: Bullion coins that contain 2 or less minute imperfections but still carry their original mint luster.
Other certification terms often used for bullion coins:
- First Strike: PCGS term designates coins that have been certified within the first 30 days of production by the contributing mint.
- Early Release: NGC term designates coins that have been certified within the first 30 days of production by the contributing mint.
- UCAM/DCAM: Shortened for Ultra-Cameo and Deep-Cameo, these terms refer to the coin's visual brilliance that is apparent on the surface by an unyielding, frosted finish and a deeply mirrored background luster.
Investment Opportunity
The American Gold Eagle Coins offer investors and collectors a seamless asset to their longterm investment goals. Recognized by most retirement and IRA accounts, the American Gold Eagle transcends its face value, while maintaining high intrinsic and numismatic value. The fractional American Gold Eagles come in sizes: 1/2 oz, 1/4 oz, and 1/10 oz. These smaller sizes represent a great entry level coin for nearly anyone. The American Gold Eagle program is the official bullion coin of the US and its popularity is not surprising.
Golden Eagle Coins offers a variety of American Gold Eagles and makes the process of buying gold online quick and easy. American Gold Eagles have the best premium when purchased via paper check, money order, cashier's check, or bank wire. All credit/debit and PayPal orders are subject to a 4% surcharge.
For orders over $99, shipping rates and insurance are free! Expedited shipping options and rates are also available! We ship using US Postal Service and every package is fully insured for its value.
American Gold Eagle Bullion Coins
Brilliant Uncirculated American Gold Eagles are produced more than the other types of Gold Eagles and contain a matte finish. Although brilliant uncirculated condition constitutes a coin with no signs of wear, scratching, or anything else that might indicate circulation, it is common for these coins to obtain breaks in luster, contact marks, or spotted surfaces; all of these are results from the minting process and do not decrease the coin's value as a brilliant uncirculated coin. Brilliant uncirculated American Gold Eagles are packaged in tubes of 20 coins, sealed by the US Mint.
American Gold Eagle Coin Composition
The American Gold Eagle is considered to be 22-karats, instead of the ideal 24-karats. The 22-karat alloy is also referred to as 'crown gold' since this was the English standard of metal content and hasn't been used since 1834. The American Gold Eagle actually contains one solid ounce of .999 pure gold, and it also weighs more than one ounce, due to the silver and copper added. This alloy of metals results in a wear-resistant coin, allowing for it to uphold over time. Both the weight and gold purity are authorized by the US Mint and are recognized, by the US Congress, as true gold bullion coins.
Design History of American Gold Eagles
Reimagined by sculptor, Miley Busiek, the design of the US American Gold Eagle features the most iconic US coin design. The obverse follows the artistic design created by Augustus Saint-Gaudens, for the $20 Gold Double Eagles, issued from 1907-1933. Saint-Gaudens was exclusively picked by president, Theodore Roosevelt, to design an image that would be a part of US history, while also reinvigorating US gold coinage. The Lady Liberty design has been used as a symbol of patriotism since the US began minting their own currency and her message of courage and power still reigns true.
The design features a fierce Lady Liberty carrying an olive branch in one hand and an ignited torch in the other. The olive branch represents the country's desire for ultimate peace. The torch is the symbol of enlightenment and has been used, in the United States, as a means to freedom and liberty; enlightenment births freedom. Lady Liberty is stressed in a loose and flowing robe, marching with the US Capital building behind her. Next to her is the coin's date of mintage; from 1986-1991, the coin's date was cast in Roman Numerals, instead of the familiar Arabic Numeral System. Along the rim are 50 stars, each representing a US state, a design that has been used on other emblematic US coins, such as the Morgan Silver Dollar. The original design featured only 46 stars, since that was how many states existed from 1907-1933.
The reverse displays the emblem of the nation, hand-picked by the Founding Fathers. The bald eagle is the king of the birds of prey and represents fierce beauty, strength, and independence. There are 3 bald eagles represented on the reverse design of the American Gold Eagle. The eagles have made a nest of olive branches and have started reproducing, with an infantile eagle represented under its mother. The coin's weight, purity, and monetary value are written underneath the eagle family.
Proof American Gold Eagle Coins
The Proof American Gold Eagles were minted, in just 1 oz increments, in 1986. By 1988, the Proof American Gold Eagle Coin became available in four sizes: 1 oz, 1/2 oz, 1/4 oz, and 1/10 oz. Unlike its brilliant uncirculated counterpart, the Proof American Gold Eagle's packaging is more aesthetically pleasing. The coin itself is encased in an appropriately fitted capsule then placed into a velvet presentation box with its Certificate of Authenticity. The presentation box is then protected by an official US Mint cardboard box.
Since the Proof American Gold Eagles are not minted, at the same rate as the brilliant uncirculated coins, their value is higher and is the ideal investment not just for collectors, but investors as well. The proof finish is described as mirror-like and although it contains the same alloy as the brilliant uncirculated version, making it a more durable coin, the proof finish is more sensitive to contact, resulting in an easily scratched coin. Numismatists prefer keeping their Proof Gold Eagles in their original packaging for protection.
All American Gold Eagles contain values that transcend the market rate of gold, since they also have select mintages and a monetary denomination, but the Proof American Gold Eagles can carry a value greater than any other Gold Eagle, specifically if it's certified.
Burnished American Gold Eagle Coins
A term that was introduced recently, in 2006, 'burnished' refers to where and how the American Gold Eagle was minted. All Burnished American Gold Eagles sport a 'W' mint-mark, signifying its place of origin: the West Point Mint. Celebrating the successful 20th anniversary of the American Gold Eagle series, the US Mint released a new coin to join the record-breaking program. A burnished coin was produced for each size variety (1 oz, 1/2 oz, 1/4 oz, and 1/10 oz), but switched to only minting 1 oz coins in 2009, due to a stall in proof and burnished Gold Eagle production.
The US Mint claims that the actual process of minting the burnished coins is very similar to the proof version but the outcome is quite different. Burnished coins greatly resemble brilliant uncirculated Gold Eagles, wherein they carry that same frosted finish, instead of a glossy one. The complicated and precise process begins with a blank put through a spinning drum. When that blank comes out, on the other end, a specialist handles the coin with white gloves to ensure maximum care. The coin is then placed, by hand, into the coin press, where a high pressure strike is released. This gives the burnished coin a more refined look, making every little detail sharper. Although the finish, of the burnished coin, has a matted look, the background is more mirror-like, giving the illusion that Lady Liberty is floating.
Certified American Gold Eagle Coins
As most coin collectors and numismatists know, a coin can be a considered brilliant uncirculated or proof, but that's just the beginning of identifying a coin's value. Dr. William Sheldon was an American psychologist by trade and a numismatist as a hobby. In 1948, Sheldon developed the Sheldon Numeric Scale, which became the foundation of grading and certifying coins. The Sheldon Numeric Scale dictates that a coin's condition can fall between 1 and 70. Before this groundbreaking system, coins were graded mostly by physical appearance and could receive one of three grades.
There are many coin grading agencies out there but only two that are revered worldwide. The Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC) and the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) are two companies that issue coins their grades. These companies not only certify coins, but they also encase the graded coin into an official holder, preserving the coin and marking the holder with its earned grade. This alone has changed the coin collecting game, while also offering a peace of mind for collectors and investors.
When purchasing a Certified American Gold Eagle, there is information provided on the coin holder that is important to know. The first thing to notice is the coin's strike type:
- MS: Short for 'Mint-State;' refers to coins that have never been in circulation and are the same condition as when they were originally produced. Mint State coins will receive a grade ranging from 60-70 on the Sheldon Numeric Scale.
- PF/PR: Abbreviation for 'Proof;' refers to the method of coin manufacture, made for eye appeal among collectors.
- SP: A 'specimen' coin is a combination of strike type (somewhere in the middle of Mint State and Proof).
A Certified American Gold Eagle (or any certified bullion coin) will most likely come in one of two grades:
- MS/PF70: Bullion coins that have kept their original mint luster and contain zero post production flaws.
- MS/PF69: Bullion coins that contain 2 or less minute imperfections but still carry their original mint luster.
Other certification terms often used for bullion coins:
- First Strike: PCGS term designates coins that have been certified within the first 30 days of production by the contributing mint.
- Early Release: NGC term designates coins that have been certified within the first 30 days of production by the contributing mint.
- UCAM/DCAM: Shortened for Ultra-Cameo and Deep-Cameo, these terms refer to the coin's visual brilliance that is apparent on the surface by an unyielding, frosted finish and a deeply mirrored background luster.
Investment Opportunity
The American Gold Eagle Coins offer investors and collectors a seamless asset to their longterm investment goals. Recognized by most retirement and IRA accounts, the American Gold Eagle transcends its face value, while maintaining high intrinsic and numismatic value. The fractional American Gold Eagles come in sizes: 1/2 oz, 1/4 oz, and 1/10 oz. These smaller sizes represent a great entry level coin for nearly anyone. The American Gold Eagle program is the official bullion coin of the US and its popularity is not surprising.
Golden Eagle Coins offers a variety of American Gold Eagles and makes the process of buying gold online quick and easy. American Gold Eagles have the best premium when purchased via paper check, money order, cashier's check, or bank wire. All credit/debit and PayPal orders are subject to a 4% surcharge.
For orders over $99, shipping rates and insurance are free! Expedited shipping options and rates are also available! We ship using US Postal Service and every package is fully insured for its value.
- One Ounce Uncirculated American Gold Eagles1986-Date
- Half Ounce Uncirculated American Gold Eagles1986-Date
- Quarter Ounce Uncirculated American Gold Eagles1986-Date
- Tenth Ounce Uncirculated American Gold Eagles1986-Date
- Certified Gold American Eagles
- Certified Proof Gold American EaglesNGC & PCGS
- Ultra High Relief Gold EaglesCertified & Mint Issued
- Proof American Gold Eagles
- 20th Anniversary Gold American Eagle CoinsSingle Coins & Sets
- Certified Burnished American Gold Eagles
- Burnished American Gold EaglesOriginal Mint Packaging
The U.S. Mint launched the American Eagle Coin Program in 1986 with gold and silver bullion coins for investors. The program has since expanded to include platinum and palladium coins. The Mint also makes proof and uncirculated versions of the American Eagle coins for collecting.
The obverse of the American Eagle Gold Coins features a version of Liberty first used on the 1907 $20, or “double eagle” coin. The design, by famed sculptor Augustus Saint-Gaudens, shows Liberty facing forward, holding a torch in one hand and an olive branch in the other. The reverse depicted an eagle grasping an olive branch flying above a nest of eagles. Starting in 2021, the gold coins feature a newly designed portrait of an eagle on the reverse and a refreshed obverse.
The obverse of the American Eagle Silver Coins uses the “Walking Liberty” design by sculptor Adolph A. Weinman from the 1916 half dollar. Liberty walks in profile, draped in the folds of the American flag. Her right arm is extended and she carries laurel and oak branches in her left. The reverse depicted a heraldic eagle with a shield, grasping an olive branch in the right talon and arrows in the left. Starting in 2021, the coins feature a new reverse showing an eagle carrying an oak branch coming to land and a refreshed obverse.
The Mint first released American Eagle Platinum Coins in 1997. The bullion coin features the Statue of Liberty on the obverse and a soaring eagle on the reverse. The proof coin design changes each year.
The American Eagle Palladium Coins were first released in 2017 as bullion and 2018 as proof. Like the silver coins, the palladium coins re-create historic designs by Adolph Weinman. The obverse features Liberty wearing a cap with wings used on the 1916 Mercury dime. The reverse shows an eagle grasping a branch first used on the 1907 American Institute of Architects Gold Medal.
American Eagle Bullion Coins
American Eagle Bullion Coins provide investors with a convenient and cost effective way to add a small amount of physical gold, silver, platinum, or palladium to their investment portfolios. The gold bullion coins are available in four sizes: one ounce, one-half ounce, one-quarter ounce, and one-tenth ounce. The silver, platinum, and palladium bullion coins are available in the one ounce size.
The U.S. Mint does not sell American Eagle Bullion Coins directly to the public. Learn more about how to buy bullion coins.
Watch the video below to learn about palladium coins.
American Eagle Proof and Uncirculated Coins
The Mint produces American Eagle Coins for collectors with proof and uncirculated finishes. The gold and silver coins are released in both proof and uncirculated finishes each year. The platinum coins are currently made only as proof, while the palladium coins switch finishes each year.
American Gold Eagle Ebay
The coins sell at a fixed price and can be purchased directly from the U.S. Mint.
American Eagle Platinum Proof Coins
American Gold Eagle Coin Value
The U.S. Mint produced its first legal tender platinum proof coin in 1997. Its $100 face value is the highest denomination for a U.S. legal tender coin. Produced for collectors, it bears the “W” mint mark of the West Point Mint, where it is produced. This precious metal coin has a limited mintage and may be purchased directly from the Mint.
From 1997 to 2017, the American Eagle Platinum Proof Coin shared a common obverse that depicted the Statue of Liberty. The coin’s reverse featured a variety of themed series designs, including:
- Portrait of Liberty (1997)
- Vistas of Liberty (1998 to 2002)
- Foundations of Democracy (2006 to 2008)
- Preamble to the Constitution (2009 to 2014)
- Torches of Liberty (2015 and 2016)
In 2017 for the 20th anniversary of the platinum proof program, the coin bore its original 1997 design. From 2018 to 2020, the Mint issued the Preamble to the Declaration of Independence Series. The obverse designs featured a different scene with Liberty each year. The common reverse showed an eagle in flight carrying an olive branch.
- 2018 Platinum Proof – Life
- 2019 Platinum Proof – Liberty
- 2020 Platinum Proof – Happiness
First Amendment to the United States Constitution Platinum Proof Coin Series
The 2021-2025 “First Amendment to the United States Constitution Platinum Proof Coin Series” features newly designed one ounce 99.95 percent platinum proof coins. The obverse designs use the lifecycle of the oak tree from seedling to a mighty oak as a metaphor for our country’s growth as a Nation that values freedom. Liberty grows to a thing of strength and beauty from a seed – our Bill of Rights. Each of the freedoms enumerated in the First Amendment contributes to the growth and development of the Nation.
This series continues the reverse design introduced for the 2018-2020 Preamble to the Declaration of Independence Series. It features an eagle in flight with an olive branch in its talons.