Gold Coins: Comparing Newly Minted, Secondary Market & Vintage Gold Coins
Both newly minted and secondary market gold coins have distinct advantages and drawbacks, making it essential to compare premiums.
Both newly minted and secondary market gold coins have distinct advantages and drawbacks, making it essential to compare premiums.
The US Mint sold 412,000 ounces of gold in its American Eagle coin program in 2024, a sharp decline of over 59% compared to the one million ounces sold in 2023.
According to a report from Kitco, the Costco’s gold bullion sales have become a significant driver of its online sales, with reports of double-digit increases in gold sales over the past three months.
Updated comparison of the American Gold Eagle and American Gold Buffalo for 2026 — including the Semiquincentennial issues, current premium spreads, and how the supply-chain story affects both coins.
The US Mint uses a “just in time” method of manufacturing when issuing gold coins. Recent sales reports show a sharp increase American Eagle gold coins in June.
Costco has broadened its selection of precious metals, introducing an array of new coins and bars to cater to the growing interest in tangible assets. The addition includes a variety of gold and silver coins and bars from renowned mints around the world, making it easier for members to diversify their investment portfolios.
The new lineup features investment-grade bullion coins such as the American Gold Eagle, Canadian Maple Leaf, along with various sizes of gold bars from PAMP Suisse and the RAND Refinery.
In June 2021, the US Mint added an anti-counterfeiting notch to the edge of annually minted coins like the American Eagle Gold and Silver coins. The notches also appear also on the redesigned gold and silver American Eagles with Uncirculated (Burnished) and Proof finishes.
The US Mint typically ships newly minted American Eagle coins during the beginning of January. Many trusted and reputable online bullion dealers have begun selling 2024 American Eagle Coins with delivery expected during the second week of January.
Many 22-karat gold coins are favored by investors because they are more durable, making them less prone to scratches and dents compared to 24-karat gold coins.
The US Mint releases proof finish versions of the American Eagle and American Buffalo coins each spring. The coins are meticulously minted to a mirror-like finish which highlights the astonishing details sculpted into each.
Resale premiums on proof finish coins are higher than bullion. Dealer Buyback prices are often a few percent above melt value for coins that are in mint state.