Gold American Eagle Proof Coins

The American Eagle Coins have been in circulation since 1986 and have been a mainstay in the investment portfolios of Americans since that time. The Gold Proof is a popular choice for collectors and investors. While more widely circulated, the Gold Bullion Coins, are an excellent choice for your precious metals IRA. Understanding the differences and what qualifies as IRA eligible gold will make you a more knowledgeable investor. 

Understanding American Eagle Proofs

Proof Coin Definition: Definition taken from usmint.gov “A specially produced coin made from highly polished planchets and dies and often struck more than once to accent the design. Proof coins receive the highest quality strike possible and can be distinguished by their mirror-like background and frosted foreground.”

American Eagle Coin Program – includes proof and bullion coins minted out of gold, silver, platinum, and palladium

Proof Coins: Considered collector’s versions of the bullion coin.

When did they start making? 1986 – present

Authorized Legislation – Public Law 99-185

Falls Under the “American Eagle Coin Program”

Minted: West Point US Mint

Design History: The front of the coin (obverse) uses the original 1907 $20 or “double eagle” design showing lady liberty holding torch in one hand and an olive branch in another inspired by Augustus Saint-Gaudens.

Starting in 2021, the reverse shows the eagle and has been enhanced for security showing a reeded edge variation.

Before 2021, the reverse showed an eagle carrying an olive branch above a nest with another eagle inside the nest with a baby.

Specification of the Coin:

Each coin consists of 91.67% gold, 3% silver, and the balance copper with a reeded edge.

The buyer has four sizes to choose from and the weights differ between the one, half, quarter, and tenth-ounce sizes.

Face Value of the Coins:

• One Ounce $50 face value and has 1 troy ounce of gold and weighs a total of 1.0909 troy ounces (33.931 g)
• One-half Ounce $25 face value and has 0.5000 gold troy ounce and weighs a total of 0.5455 troy ounces (16.966 g)
• One-quarter Ounce $10 face value and has 0.2500 gold troy ounce and weighs 0.2727 troy ounces (8.483 g)
• One-tenth Ounce $5 face value and as 0.1000 gold troy ounce and weighs 0.1091 troy ounces (3.393 g)

Where to buy U.S. Gold Proof Coins

A buyer of proof coins can be purchased directly from the U.S. Mint, a local coin dealer, or online gold and silver IRA companies. The proof coin and uncirculated coins can be purchased individually or in sets.

American Eagle Coins can be gold, silver, platinum, or palladium and the US mint has standard coins or limited editions.

IRA investors can get additional information by checking out our review on the 5 Best Gold IRA Companies. 

American Eagle Gold Proof Coins

Gold Proof as an Investment

American Gold Eagle Proof coins are available for purchase and allowed into your Investment Gold IRA portfolio.

Both proof and bullion coins are good investment options and overall, one is not better than the other. Understanding the differences is important for an investor’s portfolio.

Proof coins go through a rigorous minting process to be stamped correctly, polished, and struck several times with dies. The detail of a proof coin is much greater than a bullion coin.

Proof coins have a more scarcity mentality. The West Point mint doesn’t produce as many proof coins, as they do bullion coins. Since there are fewer in circulation and the coins go through a vigorous minting process, the price can be at a premium for these coins.

Proof coins are a valuable asset for your Gold IRA or if you choose a cash purchase. Understanding the difference between the proof coin and the bullion coin will help you understand the difference in cost difference to purchase and value to your portfolio.