Buying Gold Eagle coins is a smart way to expand your coin collection. As gold often increases in value when other investments decline, they'll make solid additions to your current portfolio. To understand why you should pick up these coins, here are answers to common questions about them.  

A Guide to Gold Eagle Coins

When was the Gold Eagle first minted?

The piece was created in response to American purchases of foreign gold coins, such as the South African Gold Krugerrand, Chinese Gold Panda, and Canadian Gold Maple Leaf. To compete with the international currency, President Ronald Regan signed the Gold Bullion Act of 1985, which called for the creation of a series of gold bullion coins by the U.S. Mint. The Gold Eagle was first minted in 1986. 

How many are made?

Each year, enough of the coins are created to respond to public demand, which means production numbers can vary. In 2007, for example, far fewer were created than the first year of production. You can find out the monthly sales totals on the U.S. Mint's website. The pieces are available as proof sets, proofs, or uncirculated currency.    

What characterizes the coins?

The pieces are made of 22-karat gold from metal mined in the United States. The front features Lady Liberty holding a torch in one hand and an olive branch in the other. The reverse side shows a soaring eagle carrying an olive branch over a nest of eagles below, though the design was modified in 2021. The coins come in 1, 0.5, 0.25, and 0.1 ounce weights.

Why are the coins a sound investment?

From a collector's perspective, damage resistance makes the coins a good investment. With 91.67% gold, 3% silver, and 5.33% copper, the coins are less susceptible to denting than 24-karat pieces and resist corrosion better than lesser metals. As an investment, the coins are easy for buyers to valuate, as the U.S. Government guarantees the weight, gold purity, and content are accurate. The value range is $50 for a 1-ounce piece, $25 for a 0.5-ounce, $10 for a 0.25-ounce, and $5 for the 0.1-ounce version.

To add Gold Eagles and other valuable coins to your collection or investment portfolio, visit Hawaiian Islands Stamp and Coin in Honolulu. Since 1973, the store has gained a reputation for maintaining an impressive inventory of rare and unique finds, including old coins, certified Hawaiian stamps, and paper money. View the merchandise for sale online, or call (808) 531-6251 with any questions.