Investors or collectors who want to start accumulating gold coins are often confused by the multitude of coins available. From the first collector targeted gold Krugerrand to the vast array of coins that are able to be purchased today, people have always had a tremendous amount of choice when it comes to buying gold products. However, it is often the case that the safest bets are from the largest, most reputable companies – or, putting it in the case of coins, buying from the U.S. government is certain to get you a quality product. For this reason, we’re going to take a look at the golden Eagle coins to see if they are right for you.
The official bullion coin of the U.S. is the American Gold Eagle, which was first introduced back in 1986. These coins are certified by the U.S. government to contain the advertised amount of weight in gold, although the coin itself is not solely comprised of 99.9% gold as some other coins. Rather, the coin is 22 karats, meaning that if you buy one of the golden Eagle coins, you’ll be receiving 91.67% gold, 3% silver, and 5.33% copper. Since gold is a soft metal, these extra metals are added for support and to produce a significantly more wear-resistant coin.
Although perhaps of no monetary value, it is worth noting that the designs on these coins are absolutely breathtaking. On the front of the coin is Augustus Saint-Gaudens’ beautiful rendition of Lady Liberty with the Capitol buildings in the background. On the back of the coin is a depiction of an Eagle soaring above the nest with the standard monetary “E. Pluribus Unum” and “In God We Trust” inscribed. In addition to that is its weight in gold and its symbolic monetary value.
It’s worth noting that these golden Eagle coins are great for beginning investors due to the wide variety of sizes available. You can get the American Eagle in 1/10oz, 1/4oz, 1/2oz, and 1oz denominations. While the spot price of gold fluctuates daily, these coins typically sell at a small premium above the price of gold. So if gold is $950, then the 1oz version would likely sell for about $1,000. In fact, at the time of this writing, there’s a 1999 1/10oz gold coin that will go for at least $117.50 on eBay. This is certainly a premium above its $95 or so spot price value.
While some people may be tempted to say that a gold coin is just a gold coin, it’s essential to remember that, as with many items, brand names do matter. Investors trust that with golden Eagle coins, they will be getting a quality product. Backed by the United States government, and made with beautiful images and strong construction, it’s no wonder that most people who are interested in purchasing precious metals choose the American Eagle. Of course, if the golden Eagle coins aren’t to your liking, you may wish to check out the silver and platinum variations. These would also be excellent investments!
We would be pleased to provide you with additional information on golden Eagle coins as well as gold coins from all over the world. We have an extensive selection of gold coins for purchase or at our coin auctions at http://www.raregoldbullioncoins.com
Author: Gust Lenglet
Article Source: EzineArticles.com