A Four-Coin Proof Gold Eagle Set is a complete collection of the U.S. Mint’s proof Gold American Eagle coins from a single year. This set is a popular choice for collectors and investors who value both the intrinsic gold content and the numismatic quality of the coins.
Key Features of the Set
- Four Coins: The set includes four coins of different weights:
- 1 ounce ($50 face value)
- 1/2 ounce ($25 face value)
- 1/4 ounce ($10 face value)
- 1/10 ounce ($5 face value)
- Total Gold Weight: The total actual gold weight in the set is 1.85 troy ounces.
- Proof Condition: These are “proof” coins, meaning they are specially struck using polished blanks and dies to create a highly detailed, mirrored background with frosted, raised designs. This process results in a beautiful, high-quality finish that is sought after by collectors.
- Original Packaging: The sets are sold in their original government packaging, which typically includes a satin-lined display case. Each set also comes with a Certificate of Authenticity (COA) from the U.S. Mint, verifying the coins’ specifications.
- Date Varies: When purchasing a “date varies” set, you are buying a complete four-coin set from a random year, as determined by the dealer’s inventory. This can be a more affordable way to acquire a proof set, as some years are more rare and command higher premiums than others.
- Purity: American Gold Eagles are struck in 22-karat gold, also known as “Crown Gold,” which is 91.67% pure gold, with the remaining alloy consisting of silver and copper to increase the coin’s durability.
Coin Designs
The coins in the set feature the iconic American Gold Eagle designs:
- Obverse: An adaptation of Augustus Saint-Gaudens’ famous “Walking Liberty” design from the pre-1933 $20 Gold Double Eagle coin. It depicts Liberty holding a torch and an olive branch, with the U.S. Capitol building in the background.
- Reverse: The original reverse, designed by Miley Busiek, featured a family of eagles with a male eagle carrying an olive branch to a nest where a female and young eagles await. In 2021, the U.S. Mint introduced a new, more detailed reverse design for the series, a close-up portrait of a single eagle’s head.
Investment and Collectibility
While American Gold Eagle coins are a form of bullion, the proof versions, especially in a complete set, are considered numismatic items. Their value is based on both the intrinsic value of the gold and their collectibility, rarity, and condition. The “W” mintmark, indicating production at the West Point Mint, is also found on these coins. The sets are also eligible for inclusion in a Precious Metals IRA.
