American Gold Eagle

The American Gold Eagle is the United States Mint’s 22-karat gold bullion coin, struck in four sizes since 1986. The obverse reuses Augustus Saint-Gaudens’ standing Liberty from the 1907 double eagle; the reverse showed a family of eagles by Miley Busiek from 1986 to 2021, replaced in 2021 by a portrait eagle by Jennie Norris. The program’s silver counterpart is the American Silver Eagle, struck the same way in .999 fine.

Specifications

DenominationFine gold contentGross weight
$501.0 troy oz33.931 g
$250.5 troy oz16.966 g
$100.25 troy oz8.483 g
$50.1 troy oz3.393 g

All four are struck in .9167 fine gold: 91.67% gold, 3% silver, 5.33% copper.

Key dates and mintages

Year/issueMintageNote
1986—First year of issue
1991—Lowest bullion mintage for the 1 oz coin
2008-W—Low-mintage burnished striking
2021—Transition year to the new reverse

Source: United States Mint records and PCGS CoinFacts.

Grading American Gold Eagles

Because the alloy is 22-karat, Gold Eagles resist wear better than .999-fine coins, so grade often comes down to bagmarks and the high points of the Saint-Gaudens obverse. Proofs and burnished (W) strikings are judged on cameo contrast and surface quality. The coin grading guide covers the Sheldon scale, and PCGS vs NGC covers the services.

American Gold Eagles in stock

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is the Gold Eagle 22-karat?

The US Mint kept the traditional .9167 crown-gold alloy with silver and copper for durability; the American Buffalo is the Mint’s 24-karat bullion coin.

Are Gold Eagles IRA-eligible?

Yes. American Gold Eagles are eligible under IRS Section 408(m) through an explicit statutory exception despite being 22-karat; see our guide to coins allowed in a precious metals IRA and confirm with your custodian.

How much is a 1 oz Gold Eagle worth?

One troy ounce of gold at spot plus a dealer premium; certified examples add a numismatic premium. Call 888-369-2950 for a current quote.

Questions about a specific date or grade? Call Elite Coin Group at 888-369-2950 or send a message through the contact page.