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October 15, 2024October 15, 2024

Valuable 2023 Quarter Errors, Mint Marks, Die Cracks and Their Values

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The 2023 U.S. quarters feature exciting designs, including continuing the American Women Quarters program. However, some of these coins contain rare mint errors that make them highly sought after by collectors. This post explores the most notable 2023 quarter errors, what to look for in your pocket change, and how to buy these coins for your collection. A detailed table at the end shows their value in various conditions.

Common 2023 Quarter Errors To Look For in Your Spare Change

The 5 coins that were released in 2023 as part of the American Women Quarters Program coins celebrate the achieves of women in history. The five coins include:

Bessie Coleman Quarter – The first African American and Native American woman to earn a pilot’s license.
Edith Kanaka‘ole Quarter – This coin honors a revered Hawaiian cultural icon, composer, and educator who played a significant role in preserving and teaching Hawaiian culture, language, and traditions.
Eleanor Roosevelt Quarter – This coin honors Eleanor Roosevelt, one of the most influential first ladies, recognized for her work as a humanitarian, diplomat, and advocate for civil rights.
Jovita Idár Quarter – Known for her efforts to promote equality for Mexican Americans, Jovita Idár was a journalist, activist, and advocate for civil rights, education, and women’s suffrage.
Maria Tallchief Quarter – The first Native American to achieve international acclaim in ballet and the first prima ballerina of the New York City Ballet.

Error hotspots often appear on the rim, lettering, or profile areas. Be sure to examine any 2023 quarter you encounter—especially if it seems slightly different from others.

2023-P Edith Kanaka’ole Quarter BU “EDITH” Clashed Die Error

A die clash occurs when the obverse and reverse dies strike each other without a coin blank between them. Each die leaves an faint impression of its design on the opposite die. As a result, coins struck with these damaged dies will show traces of the design from the opposite side imprinted faintly where they shouldn’t be.

2023 P Jovita Idar Quarter Die Crack

Die cracks are raised lines or bumps caused by fractures in the die. These errors can vary in size, but those in noticeable places (like Washington’s profile) are more desirable.
Cuds occur when part of the die breaks off, leaving a blob-like area on the coin.

2023 P Bessie Coleman Quarter Die Chip Error

Die Chips occurs when a small piece of the coin die breaks off, leaving a void which causes raised bumps or blobs to appear on the coins. These blobs often form in recessed areas or along design elements on the coin, such as letters, numbers, or the edges of portraits.

There are many 2023 Bessie Coleman Quarters with Die Chip errors that were issued by the Philadelphia Mint and can be found in your pocket change.

2023-D Jovita Idar D Quarter (25c) Error “In Cod We Trust”

The 2023 Jovita Idar quarter has become notable for a reported error that reads “In Cod We Trust” instead of the standard “In God We Trust.” This error has attracted significant attention from collectors. However, it is still debated whether this anomaly is an actual mint error or the result of post-mint damage or light contact marks that make the “G” appear like a “C”.

If legitimate, the “In Cod We Trust” issue would be classified as a misprint, which increases its value as an unusual collectible.

This error coin has been listed and sold on marketplaces like eBay for more than face value, some listings have seen these quarters priced from $25 to over $400 depending on condition and collector interest.

2023 Maria Tallchief “Extra Feather” Quarter Error

Another frequrntly found Die Chip Error is the 2023 P Maria Tallchief quarter, which has gained attention among collectors due to an intriguing die chip error which appears to add an “extra feather” to the design.

This error occurs in the feather details of her hair, creating the appearance of an additional feather that wasn’t part of the intended design. Coins with this “extra feather” error have been actively traded on platforms like eBay. They are valued between $3 to $6, depending on the condition of the coin and the visibility of the error.

Other Common Quarter Errors

Double Dies (DDR/DDO)

A double die error occurs when a coin is struck with a misaligned die, creating a doubled design on specific areas like letters or numbers. Look closely at “E Pluribus Unum” or the date to detect doubling.

Off-Center Strikes

Off-center coins occur when the planchet (coin blank) is not properly aligned. Coins with missing design portions can be valuable, especially if the date remains visible.

Struck Through Errors

These happen when foreign materials (like grease or wire) block parts of the design during minting. The result is a coin with missing or weak details, which can vary in value based on the uniqueness of the error.

Clipped Planchets

A clipped planchet is missing part of the edge due to a misfeed during minting. These errors are usually small, but full or crescent-shaped clips are more valuable.

Where to Buy 2023 Quarter Errors

If you’re looking to purchase error quarters for your collection, here are a few reliable ways to do so:

Coin Dealers: Many professional coin dealers sell error coins and can help authenticate rare finds.
Coin Shows: Visit coin expos or shows in your area and other events where collectors gather—error coins are often displayed.
Online Marketplaces: Websites like eBay, Etsy, and specialty numismatic sites often feature error coins. To avoid counterfeits, be cautious and buy only from trusted sellers with good reviews.
Social Media Groups: Many Facebook or Reddit groups for numismatics have members who buy and trade error coins.
Coin Auctions: Larger auction houses often feature rare error coins, but prices can be higher due to competitive bidding.

2023 Quarter Error Values in Different Conditions

Below is a table outlining the approximate values of common 2023 quarter errors in different conditions. Remember that prices fluctuate based on rarity, demand, and the coin’s condition.

Error Type	Good (G)	Fine (F)	Extremely Fine (EF)	Mint State (MS-65 or higher)
Die Crack (Minor)	$3-$5	$8-$10	$12-$15	$20-$30
Die Crack (Major)	$8-$12	$20-$25	$30-$50	$80-$100
Double Die (DDR/DDO)	$15-$25	$40-$60	$80-$100	$150-$300
Off-Center Strike (<10%)	$10-$20	$30-$50	$80-$120	$150-$250
Off-Center Strike (>10%)	$20-$30	$50-$100	$120-$200	$300-$500
Struck Through Error	$5-$10	$15-$30	$50-$75	$100-$150
Clipped Planchet	$8-$12	$20-$40	$50-$75	$100-$200

Common 2023 Quarter Errors in different conditions

Error coins offer a fascinating opportunity to uncover value in your everyday change. Like other quarter error coins, 2023 quarters with die cracks, doubled dies or off-center strikes are rare and can command high prices in the collector market. Be sure to examine any spare change you receive carefully—those little quirks might become a valuable addition to your collection. If you want to ensure you secure one of these coins, consider checking online markets or connecting with a local coin dealer to explore available options. Happy hunting!

With the proper knowledge and patience, you may stumble upon a 2023 quarter error that will become a prized item in your numismatic collection!

October 8, 2024October 8, 2024

New Feature: Silver Coin Values Guide with Coin Value Calculator

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silver coin melt value usage demonstration screen shot

At Find Bullion Prices, we constantly strive to provide the best tools for investors and collectors to track and calculate the value of their silver holdings. Recently, we’ve added a new Silver Coin Values Guide, which provides silver coin values with quick access to the current melt value of your coins.

The guide includes values for popular U.S. Mint silver coin denominations, such as dimes, quarters, half dollars, and silver dollars.

Silver Coin Values Guide

Before 1965, most U.S. Mint-issued coins were composed of a 90% silver alloy. This includes dimes, quarters, half-dollars, and one-dollar coins with a date of 1964 or earlier, as well as War Nickels, which were also minted with 35% silver alloy.

After 1965, some silver coins remained, but the Mint reduced the silver content to 40%. This includes 1965 to 1970 Half Dollars, Bicentennial Silver Quarters, as well as some Eisenhower $1 coins minted from 1971 to 1976.

The Silver Coin Value Guide displays the up-to-the-minute melt values of all U.S. Mint Pre-1965 coins and provides clear instructions on determining your coin’s value.

Melt Value Calculator

We’ve also introduced a Silver Coin Value Calculator alongside the values guide. This easy-to-use tool allows you to calculate the value of your silver coins quickly and accurately. Enter the number of silver dimes, quarters, half dollars, silver dollars, 40% silver half dollars, and Eisenhower dollars, or even 35% War Nickels, and click the “calculate” button, and the values of each denomination are displayed instantly.

Enter the quantity of each coin type in your collection.
Click the “calculate” button.
Instantly see the total value of your silver coins based on the latest spot price.

These features are perfect for anyone who wants to look up the melt value of their collection or make informed decisions about buying or selling silver. We aim to make managing your silver investments easier, faster, and more accurate.

September 30, 2024October 9, 2024

2025 American Eagle Pre-Sales

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As the year draws to a close, pre-sales of 2025 American Eagle will be starting in the coming weeks and dealers are updating their websites to accommodate the release.

In the past, precious metals dealers have begun pre-sales for the 2025 American Silver and Gold Eagles during the month of October.

These pre-sales allow investors to lock in prices before the coins are even available, ensuring they don’t miss out on the early releases. While the coins themselves are not expected to ship from the U.S. Mint until the first half of January 2025, many buyers take advantage of pre-sales to lock-in the price and guarantee that they will receive their coins as soon as they are minted and distributed.

As some of the most recognizable and trusted coins in the world, American Silver Eagles (1 oz of .999 fine silver) and American Gold Eagles (offered in 1 oz, 1/2 oz, 1/4 oz, and 1/10 oz of 22-karat gold) are the go-to options for many investors looking for physical bullion. The rumors circulating that Costco may be permanently incorporating precious metals into their product line only help spread that recognition further.

Annual Changes

The release of the 2025 coins marks the beginning of a new production cycle for the U.S. Mint. Near the end of each year, the U.S. Mint ceases minting the current year’s coins. This pause allows for crucial equipment maintenance, as well as the replacement of dies that are used to strike the new year’s coins.

During this period, market availability of current-year coins can become scarce, leading to increases in premiums. Typically, secondary market or random-year Silver Eagles will have the lowest premiums.

What to Expect from the 2025 American Eagle Coins

U.S. Mint 2025 American Gold Eagle Obverse — 2025 American Gold Eagle Obverse

While the designs of the American Silver Eagle and American Gold Eagle have remained largely unchanged since the 2021 design refresh.

Both coins are known for their patriotic designs, premium minting quality, and, of course, their precious metal content. Investors will find the 2025 American Eagles to be no different—an attractive investment that combines artistry with intrinsic value.

Dealers Prepare for Strong Demand

With gold and silver prices hitting record highs week and week, dealers are anticipating strong demand. Early buyers should quickly secure their coins at market prices when they become available for sale.

During periods of strong market demand, the current-year American Eagles tend to sell out quickly, as was the case during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic.

With prices now hitting new highs, a similar scenario could unfold, especially as more investors seek out tangible assets like gold and silver to protect against inflation and economic instability.

Many dealers offer special pre-order pricing, incentivizing those eager to add the 2025 coins to their portfolios before they hit the broader market.

January 2025: Shipping Begins

While pre-sales are beginning now, investors will need to wait until January 2025 for the coins to officially ship from the U.S. Mint. The Mint has historically fulfilled orders during the first half of January, ensuring that investors receive their new coins shortly after the new year begins. With pre-sales orders secured, many buyers can expect to see their 2025 American Eagles arrive shortly after the Mint starts shipping.

As demand for physical bullion remains strong, the annual release of the American Silver Eagle and American Gold Eagle coins is a great opportunity to add precious metals to a portfolio with prices locked at the time you place your order.

If you’re considering adding the 2025 American Eagles to your portfolio, now is the time to explore pre-sale opportunities and secure your position before the rush begins in January.

U.S. Mint Authorized Purchasers

U.S. Mint Authorized Purchasers are a select group of companies or dealers that are officially approved by the U.S. Mint to purchase bullion coins directly from the Mint in bulk.

These Authorized Purchasers (APs) serve as wholesalers between the U.S. Mint and the general public, helping distribute coins like the American Silver Eagle, American Gold Eagle, American Platinum Eagle, and other bullion products to the retail market.

APs distribute these coins to other wholesalers and distributors, retailers, precious metals dealers, and, in some cases, directly to the public. This network ensures that U.S. Mint bullion products are widely available in both domestic and international markets.

Becoming a U.S. Mint Authorized Purchaser involves meeting stringent criteria, such as financial standards to ensure they have the capacity to buy and distribute large quantities of bullion.

Some Examples of U.S. Mint Authorized Purchasers:

American Precious Metals Exchange (APMEX)
A‑Mark Precious Metals, Inc. (JM Bullion, BGASC, BullionMax, Provident Metals and others)
Coins & Things, Inc.
Dillon Gage Inc. of Dallas
The Gold Center
StoneX Bullion

September 9, 2024October 1, 2024

How much is a 1921 Morgan $1 Silver Coin Worth and other Morgan Silver Dollar Values

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The 1921 Morgan is a significant coin in numismatic history as it represents the restart of the production of $1 silver coins by the US Mint following a 17 year hiatus. It is also the last year of the original Morgan $1 coins was issued for circulation.

First introduced in 1878, the Morgan Silver Dollar was introduced due to significant pressure from Western mining interests on Congress to stabilize the price of silver following the Civil War and the discovery of vast new silver deposits, particularly the Comstock Lode in Nevada in 1859.

1921 Morgan Silver Dollar Values

1921 Morgan Dollars are generally more common than earlier Morgans, as they were the last minted in the series. However, in uncirculated or higher-grade conditions they still hold a premium for collectors.

Good (G-4): In this condition, the coin will show significant wear. The major design elements are present but heavily worn. Values typically range from $30 to $40.
Very Good (VG-8): Moderate wear is visible, and the design details are clearer but still worn down. Coins in VG-8 condition often sell for around $35 to $45.
Fine (F-12): More details on the coin’s design, such as the hair and feathers, are visible but still worn. Coins in this grade are valued between $40 to $50.
Very Fine (VF-20 to VF-30): Details such as Liberty’s hair and the eagle’s feathers are clearer, though still worn. Coins in VF condition often sell for around $50 to $70.
Extremely Fine (EF-40): Light wear is evident on the highest points of the coin, but overall, the details are sharp. These coins can be valued at $75 to $90.
Almost Uncirculated (AU-50 to AU-58): These coins show only slight signs of wear on the highest points and maintain much of their original luster. Prices range from $100 to $150, though they can be higher depending on mintmark and year.
Brilliant Uncirculated (BU): A Morgan in BU condition shows no signs of wear and retains its original mint luster. BU coins may have bag marks, dings or other minor imperfections. These coins can be valued from $150 and up.

1921 Morgan Mintage Amounts

More than 86,730,000 Morgans were minted in 1921 across all US Mint locations.

Philadelphia Mint (No Mint Mark): The Philadelphia Mint produced the majority of the 1921 Morgan Dollars. Mintage: 44,690,000 coins.
Denver Mint (D Mint Mark): This was the first time the Denver Mint produced Morgan Silver Dollars, as the Denver Mint did not exist during the original run from 1878 to 1904. Mintage: 20,345,000 coins.
San Francisco Mint (S Mint Mark): The San Francisco Mint, which had been a regular producer of Morgan Dollars in previous years, also contributed to the 1921 mintage. Mintage: 21,695,000 coins.

What is the Morgan Silver Dollar?

The Morgan Silver Dollar is one of the most iconic and widely collected coins in American numismatic history. It was minted from 1878 to 1904, and then again in 1921.

First introduced in 1878, the Morgan Silver Dollar was first introduced due to significant pressure from Western mining interests on Congress to stabilize the prices of silver following the Civil War and the discovery of vast new silver deposits, particularly the Comstock Lode in Nevada in 1859.

The coin was a direct result of the Bland-Allison Act of 1878, which required the U.S. Treasury to purchase a large quantity of silver and convert it into coinage. This was intended to support the silver mining industry and to reintroduce silver currency following the demonetization of silver in 1873.

The Morgan is often associated with the American West and the silver mining boom, particularly in Nevada, where the Comstock Lode was discovered.

The coin represents the economic and political climate of the late 19th century, particularly the monetary debate of bimetalism vs. gold standard, which was a central issue in American politics during that time.

George T. Morgan

George T. Morgan was recruited to join the U.S. Mint in 1876 through the efforts of Henry Linderman, the then Director of the U.S. Mint, who was seeking to revitalize American coinage.

Linderman sought out fresh talent from Europe, where artistic skills in coin design were highly regarded. Linderman reached out to the Royal Mint in London, where Morgan was working as an assistant engraver, and offered him the opportunity to come to the United States.

Morgan, a talented and ambitious engraver, accepted the offer and was brought on as an “assistant engraver” under Chief Engraver William Barber. Morgan’s arrival marked the beginning of his long career at the U.S. Mint.

One of Morgan’s first tasks was creating a new design for the silver dollar, and his fresh perspective, combined with his European training, allowed him to craft a coin that remains highly regarded among numismatists today.

Morgan Dollar Design

The coin was crafted by George T. Morgan, an English engraver who worked for the U.S. Mint. His skill is evident in the intricate details of Lady Liberty and the eagle.

Obverse

On the front of the coin, you’ll find a stunning depiction of Lady Liberty. She wears a Phrygian cap, which symbolizes freedom, and her hair is adorned with wheat and cotton.

Above her head, the words “E PLURIBUS UNUM” (which means “Out of Many, One”) highlight the unity of the states.

Thirteen stars are arranged in a semicircle above the eagle, representing the original thirteen colonies.

Reverse

On the reverse, the Majestic bald eagle with its wings spread wide, symbolizing strength and freedom.

The eagle holds an olive branch in its right talon (for peace) and arrows in its left (to signify readiness for defense).

The Mintmark for coins minted outside of Philadelphia is located at the bottom of the reverse above the “D” and “O” in the word DOLLAR.

Inscriptions

The top edge of the reverse features the words “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” while the bottom proudly states “ONE DOLLAR,” making it clear what the coin is worth.

The edge of the Morgan Silver Dollar is reeded, meaning it has notches. The reeding is a feature added to coins to reduce counterfeiting and wear.

Morgan Key Dates

The Morgan series has many key dates that are valuable to collectors due to their rarity, historical significance, or unique characteristics.

1878 (First Year of Issue)

This is the inaugural year for the Morgan Dollar and is highly collectible. Several varieties exist, including the 7 Tail Feathers and 8 Tail Feathers variations, which refer to the number of feathers on the eagle’s tail depicted on the reverse.

1893-S (San Francisco Mint)

The 1893-S Morgan Dollar is considered the rarest and most valuable in the series. With a mintage of only 100,000, it is highly sought after and commands high prices, particularly in higher grades. The highest-selling Morgan Silver Dollar ever auctioned was the 1893-S Morgan Silver Dollar for $735,000 in 2018. The 1893-S is known for its rarity and high-grade condition, making it one of the most valuable and sought-after coins in the world.

1889-CC (Carson City Mint)

The 1889-CC is another rare coin, minted at the Carson City Mint, which makes it especially desirable. The Carson City mint is known for producing some of the most collectible Morgans. Only 350,000 coins were minted, and it is one of the most valuable Carson City Morgans.

1895 (Philadelphia Mint – Proof Only)

Often referred to as the “King of Morgan Dollars,” the 1895 Morgan Dollar is famous for having no known regular strike versions. Only 880 proof coins were minted, making it extremely rare. Many believe that any 1895 Morgan Dollar found today is from the proof mintage.

1904 (Last Pre-Hiatus Year)

The 1904 Morgan Dollar is notable as it was the last year the Morgan dollar was struck before production halted. After 1904, no Morgans were produced until 1921.

Morgan Silver Dollar Mint Marks

None: Philadelphia Mint (no mint mark)
CC: Carson City Mint
S: San Francisco Mint
O: New Orleans Mint
D: Denver Mint (used only in 1921)

Notable Morgan Error Coins

Many Morgan error coins are classified under the Van Allen-Mallis (VAM) system, developed by Leroy Van Allen and A. George Mallis in the 1960s.

The VAM system identifies distinct characteristics or anomalies in the dies used to strike Morgan (and later Peace) silver dollars. These varieties can include small changes or errors in the coin design, such as doubled die features, overdates, or misplaced mint marks.

In general, Morgan VAMs that are rare or in high demand can be worth much more than regular coins. However, not all VAM varieties command a premium; it depends on the rarity, the grade, and the specific characteristics of the variety. Collectors with a keen interest in U.S. Mint history or unique coin features are often willing to pay more for these special Morgan Dollar varieties.

Some of the most sought-after VAM varieties include the 1878-P 7/8 Tail Feathers, the 1879-P Reverse of 1878, and the 1887-P Doubled Ear.

1921 Morgan $1 VAM44 MS61 — 1921 Morgan $1 VAM-44 Wide Reeds MS61

Clashed Dies

Clashed die errors occur when the obverse and reverse dies strike each other without a planchet in between, leaving impressions from one die on the other. A popular example is the 1889-P Morgan Silver Dollar with a clashed “E” visible on the reverse.

1889-O Morgan Clashed E PCGS AU55 — 1889-O Morgan $1 Clashed “E” PCGS AU55 – Value: $1,500-$2,000

Off-Center Strikes

Off-center strikes occur when the planchet is not properly aligned between the dies during the striking process, resulting in an off-center design. These errors can range from slightly off-center to dramatically misaligned, and they generally sell for thousands at auction.

Double Strikes

Double strikes occur when a coin is struck twice by the dies, creating a doubled or overlapping design. These errors are highly sought after for their distinctive appearance and rarity.

1888-O Morgan $1 VAM4 Hot Lips — 1880-O Morgan $1 VAM 4 Hot Lips PCGS AU53 – Value: $1,250 – $1,500

Die Breaks and Cuds

Die breaks and cuds are mint errors resulting from cracks or breaks in the die. These errors can create raised lines or blobs on the struck coins, adding a unique touch to your collection.

Closeup showing a die clash on a 1921 Morgan Silver Dollar — Closeup of a 1921 Morgan Die Break

Morgan Dollar GSA Hoard

The Morgan GSA Hoard was large collection of uncirculated Morgan Silver Dollars that were discovered stored in U.S. government vaults in the 1960s and early 1970s. These coins had been left over from the production of Morgan dollars between 1878 and 1904, and later in 1921, and were forgotten for many years. The hoard is named after the General Services Administration (GSA), the federal agency responsible for cataloging and selling these coins to the public.

1882-CC Morgan $1 Silver Coin BU in GSA Slab - Value: $300-$400. — 1882-CC Morgan $1 BU GSA Slab – Value: $300-$400

Origins and Discovery

The coins in the GSA hoard were primarily from the Carson City Mint (marked with the “CC” mint mark), which was known for producing fewer Morgan dollars than other U.S. mints.

In the 1960s, during an audit of U.S. Treasury vaults, these coins were rediscovered, amounting to millions of uncirculated Morgan dollars. Recognizing their potential numismatic value to collectors, the U.S. government sold the coins to the public in a series of auctions that ran from 1972 to 1980.

Many of the coins from the hoard were in mint-state condition, which is extremely rare for coins of this age. The fact that they had been stored away for decades means they were preserved in near-original condition.

During the auctions, the coins were sold in special GSA packaging, which included black plastic holders, often referred to as “GSA holders.” Keeping coins in their original GSA packaging adds to their collectible value today.

August 1, 2024August 4, 2024

Comparing the American Gold Eagle vs American Gold Buffalo

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The U.S. Mint’s responsibility for issuing investment-grade bullion coins began with the passage of the Gold Bullion Coin Act of 1985, which led to the production and release of the American Eagle series in 1986. These coins are designed to provide a trusted store of value and wealth for investors.

Today, the Gold Eagle and Gold Buffalo are the two gold bullion coins produced by the U.S. Mint. While both coins are esteemed for their purity and craftsmanship, they have distinct features that appeal to different types of investors and collectors.

American Gold Eagle

The American Gold Eagle was established by the Gold Bullion Coin Act of 1985 to provide a trusted investment vehicle for precious metals. The first Gold Eagle was released in 1986.

The 1 oz Gold Eagle coin contains one full troy ounce of gold. The coin itself is minted with 22k, or 91.67% gold, with the remainder comprised of a mix of silver and copper. The alloyed composition makes it more resistant to scratches and dents, ideal for handling and storage.

The obverse design features Lady Liberty holding a torch and olive branch. The design was created by Augustus Saint-Gaudens and was originally used on the $20 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle from 1907 until 1933.

The reverse of design of coins minted until the middle of 2001 depicts a family of eagles that was designed by Miley Busiek.

Partway through the 2001 mintage year, a new design featuring the head of a bald eagle that was created by designer Jennie Norris.

Gold Eagle Premiums and Liquidity

The longer history and extensive production have made it a staple in the bullion market with investors.

When buying, Gold Eagles typically carry a lower premium over the spot price of gold compared to the Gold Buffalo due to its 22k composition and wider availability.

The Gold Eagle is a highly recognized and traded globally, making it a very liquid asset. When selling, dealers will often offer a small premium over spot price during normal market conditions.

Approved for inclusion in Precious Metals IRAs.

American Gold Buffalo

The American Gold Buffalo was authorized by the Presidential $1 Coin Act of 2005 with the first issue available in 2006.

Although newer, it quickly gained popularity with investors seeking the highest quality 24k gold.

The overall design is based on the 1913 Buffalo Nickel, designed by James Earle Fraser. The obverse features a profile of a Native American chief.

While the reverse features a depiction of an American bison, also designed by Fraser.

Gold Buffalo Premiums and Liquidity

When buying a Gold Buffalo coin, it is common to find that these carry a higher premium over the spot price of gold due to its pure gold content, collectible design and lower annual mintages.

These coins are also highly recognized and traded in the secondary bullion markets, though slightly less liquid than the Gold Eagle due to its newer introduction. When selling to a bullion dealer or coin store, it is common to receive an offer that is priced slightly above melt value under normal market conditions.

Approved for inclusion in Precious Metals IRAs.

.999 vs .9999 fine

Both the American Gold Eagle and the American Gold Buffalo are excellent choices for gold investors and collectors, each with unique attributes.

Aside from the design, the primary difference between the coins is the difference in the purity of the gold.

The Gold Eagle, with its historical design and durable composition, is ideal for those seeking a robust and widely recognized investment.

While each contain a full 1 troy ounce of fine gold, due to the inclusion of the copper and silver, the American Eagle is 22k gold, or 91.67% with an overall weight of 1.0909 troy ounces.

The Gold Buffalo was created due to investor demand for 24k gold coins, such as the Canadian Maple Leaf or the British Britannia, and appeals to purists and collectors who value its 24k gold purity and classic American design.

Availability

The US Mint manufacturers bullion coins based on monthly sales demand. This just in time, mint on demand model, has become common in government minting operations as a way to keep manufacturing costs low.

The American Gold Eagle is more popular with investors due great awareness because of its long mintage history. Monthly sales figures show that more investors buy American Gold Eagle coins, with an average of 18,000 coins for the 1 oz denomination, with even larger amounts in some of the fractional sizes such as the 1/10 oz and 1/4 oz coins.

Monthly sales figures for the American Gold Buffalo average around 14,500 coins.

Both of these coins are backed by the US Mint. Current year coins are readily available from online bullion dealers and coin stores throughout the country. It is important to note that when shopping for gold coins, the dealer premiums on current year coins are typically higher than those in the secondary market, due to premium increases from the US Mint.

Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on individual preferences regarding purity, design, and investment goals. Whether you prefer the historical significance and durability of the Gold Eagle or the pure, high-quality gold of the Gold Buffalo, both coins represent a valuable addition to any investment portfolio.

July 31, 2024September 11, 2024

History of the US Mint

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The US Mint was founded in 1792 in Philadelphia and has been the nation’s sole manufacturer of legal tender coinage. It is responsible for producing circulating coinage on behalf of the federal government for the nation to conduct its trade and commerce.

As gold was discovered throughout the US, branch Mints and assay offices opened to serve the needs of a growing nation.

Currently, the Mint currently operates production facilities in Philadelphia, San Francisco, Denver, and West Point and maintains a bullion depository at Fort Knox. Many other facilities and locations, such as New Orleans, Carson City and others have opened and closed throughout our history based on need and demand.

Prior to the Revolutionary War, monetary transactions and trade were handled using foreign or colonial currency, livestock, produce or other means of barter.

Post-Revolutionary War, prior to the ratification of The Constitution, the U.S. was governed by the Articles of Confederation, which allowed for the states to mint their own coins.

In 1788, the Constitution was ratified and discussions soon began about the need for a national mint.

Congress passed the Coinage Act on April 2, 1792. The Coinage Act is responsible for establishing the first national mint in the United States.

At the time, Philadelphia being the nation’s capital, was chosen as the location for the first Mint. David Rittenhouse, the first mint director, bought property at 7th and Arch Streets to build a three-story facility that would become the first Mint.

It was the tallest building in Philadelphia at the time and the first federal building erected under the Constitution.

The Coinage Act called for the minting of coinage in gold, silver and copper in the following denominations:

Gold Coins: Gold Eagle ($10), Gold Half Eagle ($5), and Gold Quarter Eagle ($2.50).
Silver Coins: Silver Dollar ($1), Silver Half-Dollar ($.50), Silver Quarter Dollar ($.25), Silver Dime ($.10) and Silver Half-Dime($.05).
Copper Coins: Cent ($.01) and Half-Cent ($.005).

A little over one year after the Coinage Act was passed the Mint delivered it’s first coins for circulation.

1800’s Gold Rushes

The discovery of large amounts of gold in North Carolina and Georgia led to the expansion of the US Mint to Southern locations. Demand on the Philadelphia Mint was at its limits. In 1835, Congress passed legislation that authorized the expansion of the mint with three new locations; Charlotte, NC; Dahlonega, GA; and New Orleans, LA.

The mint facilities at Charlotte and Dahlonega were focused on processing newly mined gold into coins. The New Orleans minted both gold and silver coins.

All three southern mint facilities were taken over by the Confederacy during the Civil war. These facilities would sporadically produce Confederate coins.

The US Government regained possession of these facilities at the end of the Civil War. The Dahlonega facility remained closed. The Charlotte and New Orleans mints restarted operations several years after the war.

Coins were minted in Charlotte until the mint closed the facility in 1919. New Orleans continued operations until it was closed 1942.

The Gold Rush in California began around 1849. Transporting gold all the way back to Philadelphia was costly, time-consuming and risky. In 1854, the San Francisco Mint was established to convert miner’s gold into coins. Other mint facilities in Denver and Carson City were established during the mid to late-1800’s.

Gold Confiscation and Bullion Depositories

Gold coins were minted until 1933 when President Roosevelt signed Executive Order 6102. The presidential order made owning gold a crime. Roosevelt and the leading bankers of the day declared that the hoarding of gold coins was causing the Depression to drag on.

Executive Order 6102 required everyone to turn in their gold coins in exchange for Federal Reserve Notes at a fixed exchange rate of $20.67 per ounce of gold.

As a result, the government needed to build a bullion depository capable of storing large amount of recovered gold bullion.

In 1936, the bullion depository at Fort Knox, Kentucky was established for storing gold bullion. Two years later, the West Point bullion depository opened to store silver bullion.

Millions of Pre-1933 vintage gold coins were melted into bullion bars. However, many survived because gold is hard money.

Today, Pre-1933 Gold Coins are a popular choice for investors and collectors because of the incredible history associated with these coins.

Modern Day Mint Facilities

The US Mint operates modern, state of the art minting facilities in Philadelphia, Denver, San Francisco. The mint at West Point is used for minting proof and bullion coins and other commemorative coins.

The West Point Mint is primary production facility for American Silver Eagles, American Gold Eagles, American Platinum Eagles and Gold Buffalo 1 oz coins.

Most of the modern bullion coins for investment come from the West Point Mint. Proof coins are minted in both San Francisco and the West Point Mint.

Coins that are produced at the Philadelphia Mint do not typically contain mint marks.

In 2023, a mint mark was added to the obverse of the American Silver Eagle below the phrase “In God We Trust” indicating coins minted at the West Point Mint.

July 28, 2024August 1, 2024

US Mint Increases Premiums on American Silver Eagles

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American Silver Eagle Tube of 20 1 oz Coins

For all bullion coins, the US Mint charges a premium over the prevailing spot price when selling newly minted coins to Authorized Purchasers. The premium covers the cost of manufacturing and distribution of the coins.

It’s been reported that the the US Mint notified distributors recently of the increase in the premium, from $2.95 to $3.05 per coin over the prevailing spot price, or roughly 3.8%. Retail investors should expect the increase in premiums to trickle down quickly from the wholesale level to bullion dealers.

US Mint just raised prices on Silver American Eagles to distributors. Now at $3.05 per coin over spot.
— bob coleman (@profitsplusid) July 26, 2024

How the premium of American Eagle Silver Coins breaks down

With the silver price today at $27.93 per ounce, the overall wholesale premium of 9.15% premium added by the Mint at the wholesale level, making the wholesale cost to Authorized Purchasers $30.98 per coin.

Currently, the lowest dealer price is $32.58 per coin, which is a 16.65% premium over the spot silver price today.

At the retail level, the premium is $1.60 over spot, or roughly 6% over the wholesale cost. This markup that is shared between the wholesaler and retail bullion dealers.

We track prices from more than a dozen dealers for current year Silver Eagles, the highest currently has a premium of $8.70 per ounce over spot, a 31% premium.

The two largest APs that serve the retail precious metals market are APMEX and A-Mark. Each will have their own markup to downstream distributors and retailers. Coincidentally, A-Mark direct-to-consumer’s top brand, JM Bullion, along with APMEX, currently have some of the highest dealer premiums online.

Manufacturing American Eagle Silver Coins

The U.S. Mint acquires raw silver that meets the purity and sourcing standards that are prescribed into law. For the 1 oz American Eagle Silver Coin, the purity standard is .999, or 99.9% pure.

The U.S. Mint does not own the refineries that process the ore. Instead, it works with approved suppliers and refineries that meet specific standards.

These suppliers, including the Sunshine Mint, of which A-Mark owns a minority stake, provide the Mint with silver blanks, also known as planchets, which are the round metal discs that are then struck into coins.

The silver blanks are produced by rolling the refined silver into sheets and then punching out discs of the appropriate size and weight. The prepared planchets are then sent to the Mint’s facilities, where they are struck into coins.

This video from the US Mint on YouTube demonstrates the manufacturing process.

After striking, the coins are inspected for quality. Those that meet the standards are counted and packaged for distribution.

Newly minted investment grade American Silver Eagle Bullion coins are available only through retail precious metals and are sold in various packaging options, including tubes, monster boxes, and individual holders.

July 12, 2024July 12, 2024

2024 Uncirculated Morgan and Peace Silver Dollars available from the US Mint

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The United States Mint has announced the availability of the 2024-P Uncirculated Morgan and Peace Silver Dollars. These modern renditions are composed of .999 fine silver and are available for purchase on the US Mint website for $91 each.

The mintage for each coin is limited to just 275,000 pieces. Premiums for previous issues of Morgan and Peace Silver Dollars have risen significantly in recent years.

For example, the 2021 Peace Dollar had an issue price of $85 from the Mint. In today’s market, this coin sells for around $300 from online dealers, while Greysheet puts the value range at $85 to $143. Reputable dealers on eBay are selling graded 2021 Peace Dollar MS70 coins certified by either NGC or PCGS for $350 and up.

The original government packaging encapsulates each coin which is placed in a stylish clamshell with an elegant blue presentation box. The box is stamped with the official United States Mint seal and wrapped with an outer sleeve that incorporates an image of the coin’s obverse. The package includes a certificate of authenticity.

2024 Morgan and Peace Silver Dollars Release Details

Design and Specifications:

Material: .999 fine silver
Price: $91 each
Mintage Limit: 275,000 for each coin
Order Limit: 25 coins per household for the first 24 hours
Denomination: $1 USD
Finish: Uncirculated
Silver Weight: 0.859 troy ounces
Diameter: 38.1mm (1.5 inches)
Edge: Reeded
Mint Mark: None – Philadelphia Mint

Obverse and Reverse Designs:

Morgan Dollar Obverse: Features Liberty with a cap, flora, and a crown inscribed with “LIBERTY,” and thirteen stars
Morgan Dollar Reverse: Depicts an eagle with outstretched wings, arrows, an olive branch, and a wreath
Peace Dollar Obverse: Features Liberty wearing a radiant crown
Peace Dollar Reverse: Shows an eagle at rest holding an olive branch above the inscription “PEACE”

Proof versions of the Morgan and Peace dollars, along with a two-coin reverse proof set, are scheduled to be issued by the U.S. Mint in the fall.

July 12, 2024July 14, 2024

US Mint to issue DC Comics Commemorative Coins

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The United States Mint has announced a first of its kind collaboration with DC Comics to launch a new series of collectible coins and medals celebrating DC comic book art.

The new series will debut during the Summer of 2025 kick off with Superman, Batman, and Wonder Woman. The series will feature three additional DC characters per year in 2026 and 2027.

The public is invited to vote for the DC Super Heroes they would like to see included in the series. Voting will be open from July 10 to August 11, 2024.

This collectible series will include 24-karat gold coins, .999 fine silver medals, in addition to non-precious metal (clad) medals.

To participate in the voting, you can complete the survey found at the bottom of the Comic Art page on the US Mint website. Follow the instructions in the survey and select the characters you would like to see featured in future years.

DC Comics was founded in 1934 as National Allied Publications and is one of the oldest comic book publishers globally. Its rich history and iconic characters make it a natural fit for this collaboration with the Mint.

The United States Mint has a longstanding tradition of issuing commemorative coins and medals that honor American values, icons, and significant historical moments. This new venture continues that tradition by celebrating the cultural impact of comic book art.

May 4, 2024August 11, 2024

Investment Grade Silver Coins

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In a world of ever-changing economic landscapes, investors often seek ways to protect and grow their wealth. One such asset class that has been a cornerstone of wealth preservation for centuries is precious metals, with investment grade silver coins being a popular choice due to affordability and potential for appreciation.

Investment grade silver coins are high-quality, government-minted coins that contain a specified amount of pure silver. These coins are recognized for their silver content, purity, and legal tender status, making them a reliable store of value. Some popular examples of investment grade silver coins include the American Silver Eagle, Canadian Silver Maple Leaf, and the Austrian Silver Philharmonic.

As the purchasing power of fiat currencies erodes, the value of silver can help maintain purchasing power due to its historical role as a hedge against inflation.

For example, the American Silver Eagle was first issued in 1986 when the average silver price was $5.87 per ounce and the average gas price was around 90 cents a gallon. One ounce of silver was roughly the equivalent to 6.5 gallons of gasoline.

By comparison, in 2023 the average silver price was $23.40 per ounce, while the average price of gas was $3.52 per gallon. Which makes one ounce of silver roughly the equivalent of 6.65 gallons of gas.

Unlike stocks, bonds, or cryptocurrencies, investment grade silver coins are physical assets that can be held and stored securely. This tangibility provides a sense of security and control over one’s investments.

While each government mint has its own specifications, bullion investment coins are typically minted with 1 troy ounce of silver of .999 or .9999 fine silver. Though some mints offer coins in both larger and smaller denominations to accommodate the needs of different types of investors.

US Mint American Silver Eagles

The American Silver Eagle is the only investment-grade bullion coin issued by the US Mint. The 1 oz Silver Eagle was introduced as a trusted and reliable store of value of value and wealth in 1986.

Silver Eagles are made of .999 fine silver and carry a legal tender face value of $1. As legal tender, the coins are backed by the U.S. government and are recognized and traded worldwide.

During the 2008 financial crisis and Great Recession, the demand for American Silver Eagle coins surged significantly. In 2008, the U.S. Mint sold 20,583,000 bullion coins, a massive increase from the previous year and nearly doubling the prior record.

This spike in demand was a direct response to the economic uncertainty and the sharp increase in the price of silver at that time. The popularity of these coins among investors as a store of value and a hedge against inflation was evident during this period.

Current year 2024 Silver Eagles are minted based on investor demand and confirmed orders from Authorized Purchasers. Already during the first four months of the year, the US Mint sold more than 10 million American Silver Eagle coins. Some of this can easily be attributed to the availability of American Silver Eagle Tubes at major retailers like Costco, which has helped to increase awareness and demand amongst a larger pool of investors.

Secondary market silver coins can often be a way for investors to find lower premiums. Secondary market Silver Eagles were bought in previous years and have been previous liquidated by selling to a bullion dealer or broker. These coins are then resold by dealers at a reduced premium compared to current year coins.

Royal Canadian Mint Silver Coins

The Canadian Silver Maple Leaf is one of the purest silver coins on the market, with a purity of .9999 fine silver.

The reverse of the coin features the Sugar Maple Leaf design, a national symbol of Canada. The obverse of current coins shows a portrait of King Charles. Secondary market Maple Leaf 1 oz Silver Coins will most often be from previous years that feature one of various portraits of Queen Elizabeth.

The Royal Canadian Mint incorporates several advanced anti-counterfeiting measures in the design of the coin, making it one of the most secure bullion coins in the world. These measures include:

Radial Lines: The coin features a unique background of light-refracting radial lines that create a distinctive sparkle, making it difficult to replicate and also makes it appealing from an aesthetic standpoint.
Micro-Engraved Maple Leaf: A micro-engraved textured maple leaf, which is visible under magnification, is added to the coin. This feature is also used to mark the coin’s year of issue.
Bullion DNA Technology: The Royal Canadian Mint employs its proprietary Bullion DNA anti-counterfeiting technology, which involves laser micro-engraving a small maple leaf on the coin’s surface. Each mark contains an encrypted code unique to each coin, which can be authenticated through a secure database.
MINTSHIELD™ Surface Protection: This technology reduces the occurrence of white spot discoloration on the coin’s surface, ensuring the coin retains its visual appeal over time.
Serrated Edges: The coin features serrated edges, which not only enhance its aesthetic appeal but also make it harder to counterfeit.

Silver Maple Leaf coins are available only in a 1 troy ounce denomination. These coins are highly liquid and widely traded in the secondary market like other bullion investment coins. Secondary market Maple Leafs can have coins from previous years, including those that may have been issued prior to the RCM solving the milk spot issues. However, these coins are often available at a even deeper discount from those looking for the lowest dollar-cost average.

Austrian Mint Philharmonic Silver Coins

Austrian Silver Philharmonic coins are an excellent, lower premium alternative to American Silver Eagles. They are minted with a purity of .999 fine silver, making them a high-quality option.

One significant aspect of the Philharmonic Silver coins is their lower premium over spot price compared to some other bullion coins. This makes them a more cost-effective choice for those looking to invest in physical silver.

Despite this lower premium, the coins are still widely recognized in the global market, especially in European markets, due to their association with the renowned Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra and the Austrian Mint’s reputation for quality.

The coins celebrate the rich cultural heritage of Austria, featuring the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra on the coin’s obverse and the Great Organ of the Golden Hall in Vienna’s Musikverein on the reverse.

Britannia Silver Coins from The Royal Mint

The Silver Britannia coin is minted with .999 fine silver by the Royal Mint, which is known for its high-quality standards and tightly controlled production protocols.

The Britannia Silver coin has a highly detailed design that showcases Britannia, the female personification of Britain, holding a trident and shield on the reverse.

For the 2024 Britannia Silver Coin, the obverse features a portrait of His Majesty, King Charles III. While many secondary market Britannias will be from previous years featuring a portrait of Queen Elizabeth II.

The Royal Mint incorporates several advanced anti-counterfeiting measures into each coin. These include a latent image on the coin’s surface that changes from a padlock to a trident when viewed from different angles. Additionally, the coin features micro-engraved details and a textured background that is difficult to replicate, ensuring its authenticity and integrity.

The Britannia 1 oz Silver Coin is often available at a lower price than other investment coins, making it a top choice for investors looking for the best priced silver coin.

South African Mint Krugerrands

The Krugerrand Silver Coin features the same iconic design as the gold Krugerrand, but is minted with .999 fine silver. The obverse showcases a portrait of Paul Kruger, the first president of the South African Republic, while the reverse depicts the national animal of South Africa, the springbok, against a backdrop of the country’s landscape. This design has been widely recognized and appreciated since the introduction of the gold Krugerrand in 1967.

Perth Mint Silver Coins

The Kangaroo 1 oz silver coin is a bullion coin produced by the Perth Mint in Australia. Since 2016, it has been produced annually with unlimited mintages as legal tender under the Australian Currency Act of 1965. The coin is struck from .9999 fine silver, making it a highly pure silver investment option.

The design of the coin features a bounding red kangaroo surrounded by rays of sunlight, symbolizing Australia’s vast natural beauty. The reverse of the coin also includes the inscription “AUSTRALIAN KANGAROO”, which also contains a micro-laser engraved letter. This security feature allows for easy authentication of the coin’s genuine nature. Also incorporated into the reverse design are the Perth Mint’s “P” mintmark, the year of issue, and the weight and purity of the coin.

Apart from the Kangaroo 1 oz silver coin, the Perth Mint offers several other investment-grade silver coins. These include:

Australian Lunar Series: The Perth Mint’s Lunar Series is one of its most popular offerings. Each year features a different animal from the Chinese zodiac, with 2024 showcasing the Year of the Dragon. The coins are available in various sizes, including 1 kg, 10 oz, 5 oz, 2 oz, 1 oz, and even smaller fractional sizes.
Koala Silver Coins: Introduced in 2007, the Australian Koala silver coins are another popular series from the Perth Mint. Like the Lunar Series, Koala coins are available in multiple sizes, with the 1 oz version being the most common. The mintage is limited with each year featuring a new design, adding to their collectibility.
Kookaburra Silver Coins: The Kookaburra series started in 1990 and features the iconic Australian bird. Similar to the other series, the Kookaburra coins are available in various sizes, with the 1 oz version being the most popular. Each year showcases a new design, making the series appealing to collectors.