The American Gold Eagle is an official gold coin of the United States. It was authorized by the Gold Bullion Coin Act of 1985 and first released in 1986 by the United States Mint. Since the word “eagle” also refers to pre-1933 ten-dollar gold coins, people usually mention the weight to avoid confusion, like saying “1/2-ounce American Gold Eagle.” This is especially important for the 1/4-ounce coin, which has a face value of ten dollars.
Details These coins come in 1/10 oz, 1/4 oz, 1/2 oz, and 1 oz sizes. The U.S. government guarantees the amount of gold in each coin. The gold must come from U.S. sources and is mixed with silver and copper to make the coins stronger. By law, some of the money from selling these coins is used to pay off the national debt.
Related Post:
• Bullion
Obverse of a 1/10 oz American Gold Eagle from 2017 The gold in these coins is 22 karat, also known as “crown gold.” This type of gold hasn’t been used in U.S. coins since 1834. The American Gold Eagle is authorized by Congress and backed by the United States Mint for its weight and content.
The front of the coin shows Lady Liberty holding a torch and an olive branch, with the Capitol building in the background. This design is based on the $20 Saint-Gaudens gold coin, which was commissioned by President Theodore Roosevelt to make coins like ancient Greek and Roman ones.
From 1986 to 2021, the back of the coin showed a male eagle with an olive branch flying above a nest with a female eagle and their baby. This design, by sculptor Miley Busiek Frost, represents the American family. The initials “MB” for Miley Busiek and “JW” for US Mint sculptor Sherl Joseph Winter are on the coin.
In 2021, the US Mint introduced a new back design featuring a close-up of an eagle’s head. This was designed by Jennie Norris and sculpted by Renata Gordon. The initials “JN” and “RG” are on the coin. Jennie Norris said her design shows the eagle’s pride and wisdom.
Specifications Gold Eagles made from 1986 to 1991 have Roman numerals. Starting in 1992, the coins use Arabic numerals. The coins come in four sizes: 1/10 oz, 1/4 oz, 1/2 oz, and 1 oz. Each size has the same design, but the weight and face value are different.
- 1/10 oz: Diameter 16.5 mm, Thickness 1.19 mm, Weight 3.393 g, Face value $5
- 1/4 oz: Diameter 22 mm, Thickness 1.83 mm, Weight 8.483 g, Face value $10
- 1/2 oz: Diameter 27 mm, Thickness 2.24 mm, Weight 16.965 g, Face value $25
- 1 oz: Diameter 32.70 mm, Thickness 2.87 mm, Weight 33.931 g, Face value $50
Each coin is made of 91.67% gold, 3% silver, and 5.33% copper. The 22k Gold Eagle is different from the 24k Gold Buffalo Coin, which is made of .9999 fine gold and weighs less.
Value The value of these coins is usually close to the value of their gold content, not their face value. The face values are $5, $10, $25, and $50, but the actual market value depends on the price of gold. These coins are legal money, but they are mainly held as collectibles. If sold, they are subject to capital gains tax unless held in an individual retirement account.
The United States Mint also makes proof and uncirculated versions for collectors, which have a “W” mark and are made at the West Point Mint in New York.
Mintages The number of coins made each year varies. Some years, like 2009, no proof or uncirculated coins were made due to high demand for gold. The table lists the number of coins made each year, showing different sizes and types (bullion, proof, uncirculated).
Conclusion
The American Gold Eagle stands as a symbol of the United States’ commitment to quality and tradition in coinage. Since its introduction in 1986, it has become a favorite among collectors and investors for its reliable gold content and beautiful design. The coin’s rich history, guaranteed gold weight, and legal tender status make it a valuable asset for both financial security and numismatic enjoyment. Whether held as a collectible or an investment, the American Gold Eagle continues to embody the strength and heritage of the United States.
