U.S. Coin Library

"American Eagle" Gold Bullion Coins (1986 - Present)

Information

• Weight:  
  $50 or 1oz. Pure Gold Size, 33.931 grams; 
  $25 or 1/2 oz. Pure Gold Size, 16.966 grams; 
  $10 or 1/4 oz. Pure Gold Size, 8.483 grams, 
  $5 or 1/10 oz. Pure Gold Size, 3.393 grams

• Diameter:  
  $50, 32.7 mm; 
  $25, 27 mm; 
  $10, 22 mm; 
  $5, 16.5 mm

• Edge: Reeded

• Composition: 91.67% gold, 5.33% copper, 3.00% silver

• Designer: Augustus Saint-Gaudens (obverse); Miley Busiek (reverse)

History

Legislatively authorized by the Bullion Coin Act of 1985, American Eagle Gold Bullion Coins quickly became one of the world's leading gold bullion investment coins. Produced from gold mined in the United States, American Eagles are imprinted with their gold content and legal tender "face" value. However, the face value is largely symbolic since their market value has historically been much higher. American Eagles use the durable 22 karat standard established for gold circulating coinage over 350 years ago. They contain their stated amount of pure gold, plus small amounts of alloy. This creates harder coins that resist scratching and marring, which can diminish resale value.  Minted to exacting standards, the obverse (front) design is inspired by what's often considered America's most beautiful coin: Augustus Saint Gaudens' celebrated $20 gold piece, minted from 1907-33. The reverse features a nest of American Eagles, symbolizing family tradition and unity.

Grading Guide

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