1/4 oz American Gold Eagle

The 1/4 oz American Gold Eagle is one of the United States' most popular gold bullion coins, first introduced in 1986. This coin is part of the American Gold Eagle series, and its design, featuring iconic American imagery, has made it a favorite among collectors and investors.

Why is the Coin Famous?

The 1/4 oz American Gold Eagle coin is notable for its beautiful design and its status as official U.S. government bullion. The obverse of the coin features Augustus Saint-Gaudens' full-length figure of Lady Liberty, holding a torch and an olive branch. The reverse side, designed by Miley Busiek, depicts a male eagle carrying an olive branch flying above a nest containing a female eagle and her hatchlings. This coin is admired for its artistic design, gold content, and legal tender status, making it a reliable choice for both investors and collectors.

Who Designed the Coin and Why?

The obverse of the 1/4 oz American Gold Eagle was designed by Augustus Saint-Gaudens, a preeminent American sculptor. His design for the coin was originally created for the $20 Double Eagle gold coin, first issued in 1907. The reverse was designed by Miley Busiek and features a family of eagles, symbolizing American strength and family values. The designs were chosen to evoke a sense of national pride and to represent the enduring spirit of the United States.

Coin Specifications and Symbolism

• Weight: 1/4 troy oz (approximately 7.775 grams)
• Gold Content: 91.67% gold (22 karats), with the remainder being a mix of silver and copper
• Diameter: 22 mm
• Thickness: 1.83 mm
• Edge: Reeded

The 1/4 oz American Gold Eagle is struck in 22-karat gold, a standard known as "crown gold," which adds durability to the coin without compromising its gold content. The coin's official gold content of 1/4 troy ounce is backed by the U.S. government, ensuring its authenticity and purity.

1/4 oz American Gold Eagle Value

Some 1/4 oz American Gold Eagles, depending on their condition (e.g., MS60 or MS65) and rarity, can carry additional value over their melt price. Coins from years with lower mintages or those in exceptional condition can fetch a premium. Noteworthy mintage years include 1986, the inaugural year, and some of the later years where mintages were lower. For example, the 1991 and 2001 issues had relatively low production numbers, which can make these coins more desirable to collectors.

The coin contains 0.25 troy ounces of pure gold, so its intrinsic value is based on today's gold price. Additionally, the numismatic value can fluctuate depending on factors such as condition, rarity, and market demand.

The 1/4 oz American Gold Eagle is a highly recognizable and historically significant U.S. gold coin, popular among investors and collectors. Its iconic imagery of Lady Liberty and the American eagle family makes it a symbol of national pride and strength. With values tied to the price of gold and numismatic premiums, this coin represents both a sound investment and a piece of American heritage.

1/4 oz Gold Eagle Auctions