If you aren’t into numismatics and don’t share your enthusiasm for collecting coins, you might think spending money on them is a waste of time and resources. We understand your point of view, but what if we tell you that we can change your mind?
Investing your hard-earned money in collectible items whose price will only grow with time is the smartest thing you can do. We get that many of you don’t think it is acceptable investing money in fragile collectibles such as stamps, paper money, and antique furniture since they deteriorate with time and can be easily damaged.
Therefore, collecting valuables like coins made from gold, palladium, silver, platinum, or jewelry is why less risky since they can stand the tool of time with ease. So, now that we got your attention we would like to make a proposal.
If you are a USA citizen you probably already heard about gold American Eagle coins, but if you are a foreigner let us introduce you to your potential investment. In this article we will talk about American Eagle Gold Bullion value, specifications, and where can you buy it.
American Eagle Gold Coin Program
In 1986 the U.S. Mint launched the American Eagle Coin Program. This program included gold and silver bullion coins and their targeted crowd were investors. The program was successful and since then it expanded so now it includes platinum and palladium coins besides golden and silver coins.
However, the Mint also realized that many collectors would want to have these coins in their collection so they also made proof and uncirculated versions of the American Eagle coins. Now let’s talk a bit about the different designs of coins.
Gold American Eagle
If you take a better look you will realize that the obverse side of the coin features Liberty facing forward and holding a torch in one hand and an olive branch in another hand. This image of Liberty was first used in 1907 for a $20 “double eagle” coin. However, in 2021 they changed the design so now on the reverse side you will see a newly designed portrait of an eagle.
Silver American Eagle
On the obverse side of the silver American Eagle coin you will find an image of “Walking Liberty” which was used for the first time on a half-dollar coin in 1916. This image shows Liberty walking in profile, wearing a draped American flag. In her right arm, which is extended, she carries laurel, while in her left arm, you’ll find oak branches. The mint as well redesigned the reverse side in 2021. Now the coins feature an eagle carrying an oak branch coming to land.
Platinum American Eagle
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.
Palladium American Eagle
These coins were released in 2017 for the first time as bullion, and a year later as proof for the collectors. The palladium coins re-create historic designs, so the obverse side features Liberty wearing a cap with wings. This image was used on the Mercury Dime in 1916. On the reverse side, you can see an image of an eagle grasping a branch. This image was first used on the American Institute of Architects Gold Medal in 1907.
Also Read:
- Flying Eagle Cent (1856-1858) Value Chart (Most Valuable Sold For $240,000)
- The Most Valuable Silver Eagle Value (The Very Last Classic Silver Eagle Sold For $85,000)
- 11 Rare Coins Worth Money (1933 Double Eagle Last Sold At Auction In June 2021 For $18.8 Million)
- Ultimate List Of Most Valuable Gold Quarter Coins (Worth As Much As $2,350,000)
Why You Should Invest In American Eagle Bullions?
American Eagle Bullions are a great, cost-efficient, and convenient way to start investing in a small amount of physical gold, silver, platinum, or palladium. You should know that gold bullion comes in four sizes: one ounce, one-half ounce, one-quarter ounce, and one-tenth ounce. All other bullions (silver, platinum, and palladium coins) are only available in the one-ounce size.
You should keep in mind that the U.S. Mint does not sell American Eagle Bullions to the public directly.
What about American Eagle proof and uncirculated coins?
Since there were a lot of interested collectors who wanted to get their hands on American Eagle Coins, mint-made coins with proof and uncirculated finishes. These gold and silver coins are released each year.
However, the situation is different with platinum coins which are only made as proof. On the other hand, the palladium coins switch finishes each year. All four types of coins can be purchased directly from the U.S. Mint or you can look for them in auction houses, or on the internet.
American Eagle Gold Bullion Coins
First American Eagle Coin was minted in 1986, and they are still in production. These coins are produced in four weights – one ounce, half an ounce, quarter ounce, and tenth ounce. They are made from 22-karat gold, with the addition of small amounts of alloy. This mix creates harder coins that resist scratches and damages that can significantly diminish their value.
The obverse design of the American Eagle Gold coin is inspired by Augustus Saint-Gauden’s $20 gold piece. Most of you know it under the name “Double Eagle.”
However, in 2021, on the 35th anniversary of the American Eagle Coin Program, the mint changed its design. The new design includes modifications to the Capitol Building, stars, torch, sun rays, and other design elements.
Until 2021, the reverse side featured an eagle carrying an olive branch flying above a nest containing a second eagle and hatchlings. From 2021, the reverse side only shows a portrait of an eagle. Also, to make sure new coins are better protected from counterfeiting the mint enhanced security features, including a reeded edge variation.
Keep in mind that the bullion coins don’t feature a mint mark!
Most Valuable American Eagle Gold Bullions On The Market (Table Chart)
| Name | Mintage | Metal composition | Diameter and weight | Estimated value |
| 1987 P $25 Half-Ounce Gold Eagle MS70 NGC | 131,255 | 91.6% gold 3% silver 5.3% copper | 27 mm
16.9 grams |
$32,900 |
| 1988 W Four-Piece Gold Eagle Set, MS70 PCGS | \ | 91.6% gold 3% silver 5.3% copper | \ | $19,200 |
| 1988 P $50 One-Ounce Gold Eagle MS70 PCGS | 465,000 | 91.6% gold 3% silver 5.3% copper | 32.7 mm
33.9 grams
|
$14,100 |
| 1991 W Four-Piece Gold Eagle Set, MS70 NGC | \ | 91.6% gold 3% silver 5.3% copper | \ | $9,600 |
| 1991 P $5 Tenth-Ounce Gold Eagle MS70 PCGS | 165,200 | 91.6% gold 3% silver 5.3% copper | 16.5 mm
3.3 grams |
$8,518 |
| 1989 P $25 Half-Ounce Gold Eagle MS70 NGC | 44,829 | 91.6% gold 3% silver 5.3% copper | 27 mm
16.9 grams
|
$8,225 |
| 1987 W Four-Piece Gold Eagle Set, MS70 PCGS | \ | 91.6% gold 3% silver 5.3% copper | \ | $7,800 |
| 1988 P $5 Tenth-Ounce Gold Eagle MS70 PCGS | 159,500 | 91.6% gold 3% silver 5.3% copper | 16.5 mm
3.3 grams |
$7,800 |
| 2006 W $50 Three-Piece One-Ounce Gold Eagle 20th Anniversary Set, First Strike, Three coins | 10,000 | 91.6% gold 3% silver 5.3% copper
|
32.7 mm
33.9 grams
|
$7,680 |
| 1989 P $25 Half-Ounce Gold Eagle MS70 NGC | 44,798 | 91.6% gold 3% silver 5.3% copper | 27 mm
16.9 grams |
$7,404 |
| 1989 P $25 Half-Ounce Gold Eagle MS70 NGC | 44,798 | 91.6% gold 3% silver 5.3% copper | 27 mm
16.9 grams
|
$7,343 |
| 1987 W Four-Piece Gold Eagle Set, MS70 NGC | \ | 91.6% gold 3% silver 5.3% copper | \ | $7,200 |
| Five-Piece 1995 W 10th Anniversary American Eagle Set | \ | 91.6% gold 3% silver 5.3% copper | \ | $6,585 |
| 1986 W Four-Piece Gold Eagle Set, MS70 PCGS | \ | 91.6% gold 3% silver 5.3% copper | \ | $6,310 |
| 1995 P $25 Half-Ounce Gold Eagle MS70 NGC | 53,474 | 91.6% gold 3% silver 5.3% copper | 27 mm
16.9 grams
|
$5,875 |
| 1991 P $25 Half-Ounce Gold Eagle MS70 PCGS | 24,100 | 91.6% gold 3% silver 5.3% copper | 27 mm
16.9 grams |
$5,760 |
| 1995 P $10 Quarter-Ounce Gold Eagle MS70 NGC | 83,752 | 91.6% gold 3% silver 5.3% copper | 22 mm
8.4 grams
|
$5,640 |
| 1989 P $50 One-Ounce Gold Eagle MS70 NGC | 415,790 | 91.6% gold 3% silver 5.3% copper | 32.7 mm
33.9 grams
|
$5,405 |
| 1989 P $25 Half-Ounce Gold Eagle MS70 NGC | 44,829 | 91.6% gold 3% silver 5.3% copper | 27 mm
16.9 grams |
$5,170 |
| 1992 P $10 Quarter-Ounce Gold Eagle MS70 PCGS | 59,546 | 91.6% gold 3% silver 5.3% copper | 22 mm
8.4 grams |
$5,170 |
| 1987 P $25 Half-Ounce Gold Eagle MS70 PCGS Secure | 131,255 | 91.6% gold 3% silver 5.3% copper | 27 mm
16.9 grams
|
$5,040 |
| 2006 W $50 20th Anniversary One-Ounce Gold Eagles NGC Three coins | 10,000 | 91.6% gold 3% silver 5.3% copper | 32.7 mm
33.9 grams
|
$5,040 |
| 2006 W $50 One-Ounce Gold Eagle, 20th Anniversary, Reverse Proof, Two coins PR70 NGC | 10,000 | 91.6% gold 3% silver 5.3% copper | 32.7 mm
33.9 grams |
$4,935 |
| 1986 P $50 One-Ounce Gold Eagle MS70 PCGS | 1,362,650 | 91.6% gold 3% silver 5.3% copper | 32.7 mm
33.9 grams
|
$4,320 |
| 1995 P $25 Half-Ounce Gold Eagle MS70 PCGS | 53,474 | 91.6% gold 3% silver 5.3% copper | 27 mm
16.9 grams |
$4,230 |
| 1997 P $25 Half-Ounce Gold Eagle MS70 PCGS | 79,605 | 91.6% gold 3% silver 5.3% copper | 27 mm
16.9 grams
|
$4,230 |
| 1991 P $50 One-Ounce Gold Eagle MS70 PCGS | 243,100 | 91.6% gold 3% silver 5.3% copper | 32.7 mm
33.9 grams
|
$3,960 |
| 1995 P $25 Half-Ounce Gold Eagle MS70 PCGS | 53,474 | 91.6% gold 3% silver 5.3% copper | 22 mm
16.9 grams
|
$3,840 |
| 1988 P $10 Quarter-Ounce Gold Eagle MS70 NGC | 49,000 | 91.6% gold 3% silver 5.3% copper | 22 mm
8.4 grams
|
$3,525 |
| 1995 P $10 Quarter-Ounce Gold Eagle MS70 PCGS | 83,752 | 91.6% gold 3% silver 5.3% copper | 22 mm
8.4 grams |
$3,480 |
| 1990 P $50 One-Ounce Gold Eagle MS70 PCGS | 373,210 | 91.6% gold 3% silver 5.3% copper | 32.7 mm
33.9 grams
|
$3,360 |
| 1995 P $25 Half-Ounce Gold Eagle, Thomas Cleveland Signature, MS70 PCGS | 53,474 | 91.6% gold 3% silver 5.3% copper | 27 mm
16.9 grams |
$3,120 |
| 2011 W Gold American Eagle Set PR70 Deep Cameo PCGS | \ | 91.6% gold 3% silver 5.3% copper | \ | $2,880 |
| 1986 W G$50 One-Ounce Gold Eagle PR70 Deep Cameo PCGS | 446,290 | 91.6% gold 3% silver 5.3% copper | 32.7 mm
33.9 grams
|
$2,880 |
| 1994 P $25 Half-Ounce Gold Eagle MS70 PCGS | 62,400 | 91.6% gold 3% silver 5.3% copper | 27 mm
16.9 grams |
$2,820 |
| 2007 W Four-Piece American Gold Eagle Set, First Strike, PR70 Deep Cameo PCGS | \ | 91.6% gold 3% silver 5.3% copper | \ | $2,640 |
| 1994 P $10 Quarter-Ounce Gold Eagle MS70 PCGS | 72,650 | 91.6% gold 3% silver 5.3% copper | 22 mm
8.4 grams
|
$2,585 |
| 1990 P $5 Tenth-Ounce Gold Eagle MS70 PCGS | 210,210 | 91.6% gold 3% silver 5.3% copper | 16.5 mm
3.3 grams |
$2,585 |
| 1993 P $25 Half-Ounce Gold Eagle PR70 Ultra Cameo NGC | 73,324 | 91.6% gold 3% silver 5.3% copper | 27 mm
16.9 grams |
$2,520 |
| 1997 P $50 One-Ounce Gold Eagle MS70 PCGS | 664,508 | 91.6% gold 3% silver 5.3% copper | 32.7 mm
33.9 grams
|
$2,400 |
| 1995 P $25 Half-Ounce Gold Eagle MS70 NGC | 53,474 | 91.6% gold 3% silver 5.3% copper | 27 mm
16.9 grams
|
$2,040 |
| 2001 W $50 One-Ounce Gold Eagle PR70 Ultra Cameo NGC | 24,555 | 91.6% gold 3% silver 5.3% copper | 32.7 mm
33.9 grams |
$1,997 |
| 1994 P $25 Half-Ounce Gold Eagle MS70 PCGS | 62,400 | 91.6% gold 3% silver 5.3% copper | 27 mm
16.9 grams
|
$1,997 |
| 2006 W $50 20th Anniversary One-Ounce Gold Eagle PR70 Deep Cameo PCGS | 10,000 | 91.6% gold 3% silver 5.3% copper | 32.7 mm
33.9 grams
|
$1,645 |
| 2016 W $50 One-Ounce Gold Eagle, 30th Anniversary, Augustus Saint-Gaudens, PR70 Ultra Cameo NGC | 6,888 | 91.6% gold 3% silver 5.3% copper | 32.7 mm
33.9 grams
|
$1,527 |
| 1999 P $50 One-Ounce Gold Eagle–Struck-Through Obverse at 9 O’Clock–MS68 PCGS | 1,505,026 | 91.6% gold 3% silver 5.3% copper | 32.7 mm
33.9 grams
|
$1,150 |
| 1987 P $25 Half-Ounce Gold Eagle PR70 Deep Cameo PCGS | 143,398 | 91.6% gold 3% silver 5.3% copper | 27 mm
16.9 grams
|
$1,116 |
| 1999 W $10 Quarter-Ounce Gold Eagle Unfinished Proof Dies–MS69 PCGS | 10,000 | 91.6% gold 3% silver 5.3% copper | 22 mm
8.4 grams |
$1,035 |
| 2008 W $10 Quarter-Ounce Gold Eagle MS69 PCGS | 8,883 | 91.6% gold 3% silver 5.3% copper | 22 mm
8.4 grams
|
$881 |
How Can You Identify Real Gold American Eagle From Fake One?
Investing a large amount of money in gold coins can be very beneficial in the longer run. However, the bad news is that there are a lot of fake gold coins on the market nowadays. To avoid scams you should learn how to recognize real from fake gold. Here are a few tips and tricks that can help you determine if your item is real or fake.
Also, make sure you read this comprehensive list of things you should check to make sure your American Gold Eagle coin is real:
- Marks – If the coin has the word “COPY” stamped upon it in tiny letters, it’s not a real American Eagle. Also, some fake coins have date marks that shouldn’t be there.
- Design – Remember, the hair and gown of Lady Liberty should be sharply defined. On fake coins, details can look flat and poorly defined, look for horizontal lines across Liberty’s legs, for instance,
- Font – In most cases, fake Eagles look slightly off when it comes to letters. The word “LIBERTY” will always have pronounced serifs if the coin is fake.
- Rim and edges – The US mints use highly precise machines for striking American Eagles to make sure they always achieve specific dimensions. This includes rims and edges of the coins as well. Fake coins often have larger rims and edges inspect the coin properly before buying.
- Weight – Each coin has an exact weight. The US mint uses an electronic digital scale to measure coins. Due to the cheaper metals used for making fake coins, they will likely not have the same weight as the real ones. Use a high-quality digital scale to check coins before buying.
- Diameter and thickness – Fake Eagles will have diameter and thickness that does not correspond to the real ones. Use calipers, a measuring tool that lets you determine the distance between two opposite sides of an object and its thickness as well.
- The ping test – You should know that precious metals produce a long and high-pitched ringing sound when they are struck. Try it and you’ll easily recognize the sound.
- Magnet test – Gold does not have magnetic properties, so if you try to pick the item with the magnet and it does not stick then your gold is real and pure. Fake gold coins are mainly made from materials that are highly magnetic and only plated with gold, these coins will stick to the magnet.
- Ceramic test – Take a gold coin and an unglazed piece of ceramic. Now all you need to do is draw over it by applying light pressure. If the trace is golden then it’s real gold. On the other hand, if the trace is black then unfortunately your item is fake.
- Nitric Acid test – This test should be done only by professionals since you can damage your coin. Pure gold is resistant to oxidation and corrosion and it won’t get damaged by nitric acid. Also, different strengths of nitric acid are used for different carats. You can try a similar test at home using bleach and vinegar. When you expose a fake coin to these substances they will change color.
Where Should I Buy Gold Coins?
If you are serious about investing your money in American Eagle coins then you should do it properly and make sure you buy only from reliable dealers. Buying precious metal coins and bullion from unreliable sources and online platforms is the biggest mistake you can make.
Before any purchase, check all the possible auction houses, gold coin companies, and online sellers to learn which ones are the most reliable. After that contact them and check the prices, you will be surprised how the price tags vary from place to place. Here is the list of the best places where you should look for American Eagle coins:
- United States Mints – here is the link where you can get yourself informed.
- APMEX
- Golden Eagle Coins
- Bullion Exchanges
- Scottsdale Bullions and Coins
Of course, you can try your luck on the websites like eBay, and Etsy but we do not recommend it since it is too risky. If the coin is too cheap you can be sure that isn’t the real one. If you still want to buy American Eagle online under the price the safest way is to hire a broker or an expert who will know to recognize real from fake ones.
FAQ
What is the highest denomination for a US legal tender coin?
The platinum-proof $100 coin was produced in 1997, and this is the highest denomination for a U.S. legal tender coin. It is strictly produced for collectors, and you will recognize it since it bears the “W” mint mark. W mark labels the West Point Mint. This coin has a limited mintage and anyone who is interested in buying it can buy it directly from the Mint.
From 1997 until 2017, this coin had a common obverse that shows an image of the Statue of Liberty. On the other hand, the reverse side of the coin featured a variety of themed series designs:
- Portrait of Liberty 1997
- Vistas of Liberty from 1998 to 2002
- Foundations of Democracy from 2006 to 2008
- Preamble to the Constitution from 2009 to 2014
- Torches of Liberty in 2015 and 2016
For the 20th anniversary of the platinum proof program, the coin was minted in its original 1997 design. However, from 2018 to 2020, these coins featured the Preamble to the Declaration of Independence Series. The obverse designs showed a different scene with Liberty each year while the reverse side showed an eagle in flight carrying an olive branch.
A new edition of the platinum-proof coin was produced in 2021 and it will end in 2025. It features newly designed one-ounce 99.95 percent platinum-proof coins. On the obverse side, you can notice the lifecycle of the oak tree from seedling to a strong and large oak. This serves as a metaphor for the country’s growth. The reverse design is still the same as the one introduced for 2018-2020 and it features an eagle in flight with an olive branch in its talons.
How can you spot the difference between real gold coins and gold-plated coins?
Unfortunately, the replicas of gold coins are so good that you can’t spot the difference with the bear eye. Luckily you can always do a test. Since gold is a non-ferrous metal you can do a quick magnet test. Real gold will never stick to the magnet. However, fake gold coins are made from gold-plated metals that will immediately stick to the magnet. Case solved.
Are Gold Eagles made from pure 100% gold?
No, Gold Eagles are a mixture of pure gold and small amounts of alloy. These include .03 silver; and .0533 copper which help creates harder coins that are resistant to scratching.
A Gold Eagle uses the durable 22-karat (.9167) standard established for gold circulating coinage. For instance, a 1 oz. American Eagle contains 1 troy ounce of 22-karat gold. Every 22-karat Gold American Eagle is minted from solid gold mined in America
Is Now A Good Opportunity To Invest In American Eagle Gold Bullions?
As you all know precious metals such as gold and platinum are traditionally considered a hedge against inflation. When the economy is uneven and on the edge, in most cases, the value of these metals significantly rises. Considering the current situation on the markets all over the world a lot of you are wondering if now’s the right time to invest in gold, and valuable items made from gold. Our best answer is – if you want to start investing in the future, and grow some safety fond, well now is the time to act
In the end, gold is scarce, which is one of the main reasons why so many experts see gold as a great investment. No matter the year or the economic situation, investing money in gold is always safer than investing in foreign currencies or real estate.
The reason is obvious, there is only so much gold in the world, so naturally, the prices will continue to go up as demand increases. Start building your future now and invest in your first American Eagle Gold Bullion!
