The American Platinum Eagle coin is the official government-authorized platinum bullion coin of the country. The U.S. Mint began releasing these coins in 1997 and they come in one-tenth, one-quarter, one-half, and one troy ounce sizes. They are made from 0.9995 fine platinum and coin collectors can purchase uncirculated or proof versions of these coins. The American Platinum Eagle is the only U.S. bullion coin with a reverse design that alternates on a yearly basis.
This coin has the unique aspect of being considered commodity platinum instead of a rare coin, meaning its value is not likely to appreciate more than that of its metal. This means that it can be placed in a United States individual retirement account. Investors who buy gold coins or other collectibles are unable to do so with these items.
Between 1998 and 2002, the proof version of this coin had reverse designs of a bald eagle in a different area of the U.S., called the “Vistas of Liberty” program. During the years 2006 to 2008, the reverse design theme was “The Foundations of Democracy,” representative of the three branches of government. These designed included a “Legislative Muse” flanked by two eagles on columns, an American Bald Eagle, and an American Bald Eagle watching over “Lady Justice.”
The face values of the coins are $10, $25, $50, and $100, in increasing order by amount of troy ounce. The $100 face value of the one-troy ounce coin is the highest of any American coin. The platinum content of all sizes of these coins makes the items valuable to investors and they are traded throughout the world.
American Platinum Eagles are the only bullion coins with a government guarantee regarding purity, weight, and content. The alternating design on their reverse makes them even more unique and prized by investors. Individuals should not only buy gold coins when they start a collection, they should add the American Platinum Eagle as well.
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