American Gold Eagles For Precious Metals Investment

As the investing landscape has become more uncertain, more individuals have been considering precious metals investment as an alternative to other asset classes. This investment can be made through a number of methods such as an ETF for precious metals, stock in mining companies, or bullion coins. The most popular gold bullion coin of the United States is the American Gold Eagle.

Gold bullion coins were first minted under the Congressionally authorized program in 1986. The American Gold Eagle is minted to exacting specifications with the purity, weight, and content of each coin guaranteed by the government of the United States. The composition is 91.67% gold or 22 karat, with silver and copper representing the balance to improve durability. The bullion coins have traditionally been offered in four different bullion weights, containing one ounce, one-half ounce, one-quarter ounce, or one-tenth ounce of gold.

The obverse design of the Gold Eagle is based on one of the most beautiful designs of American coinage. This is Augustus Saint-Gaudens’ design for the $20 gold double eagle coin. Liberty is shown with a torch and olive branch in hand, striding confidently forward. The background of the coin includes the US Capitol Building and the rising sun.

The American Gold Eagle’s reverse design prominently features a family of eagles as designed by Miley Busiek. This design was created exclusively for the new bullion series. A nest of eagles with female and hatchlings is depicted, with a male eagle in flight carrying an olive branch.

In addition to the bullion coins, the United States Mint has offered special versions of the coins for collectors. Since 1986, a proof version of the coin has been created which features a high quality deep cameo proof finish. From 2006 to 2008, collectible uncirculated versions of the coin were produced, which are struck on specially burnished blanks and contain the W mint mark. The collector versions of the coins are priced at a premium and sold directly by the United States Mint to the public.

Learn more about Gold Eagles. Find information on the latest bullion and collectible versions of the coins such as the 2010 Gold Eagle.

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