The 1987 Two Coin Proof Gold American Eagle Set is a notable and sought-after product for collectors and investors. It holds a unique position in the history of the American Gold Eagle series.
Set Composition and Specifications
- Coins Included: The set contains two coins:
- One 1-ounce ($50 face value) Proof Gold American Eagle. This coin was minted at the West Point Mint and bears a “W” mint mark.
- One 1/2-ounce ($25 face value) Proof Gold American Eagle. This coin was minted at the Philadelphia Mint and may have a “P” mint mark.
- Total Gold Content: The set has a total of 1.5 troy ounces of .9167 fine gold.
- Purity and Composition: American Gold Eagles have a composition of 91.67% gold, 3% silver, and 5.33% copper. This creates a more durable coin than pure gold.
- Design:
- Obverse: Features Augustus Saint-Gaudens’ classic “Lady Liberty” design, adapted from the original 1907-1933 $20 Gold Double Eagle.
- Reverse: The reverse design by Miley Busiek features a family of bald eagles. A male eagle is shown returning to the nest with an olive branch as a female eagle guards the hatchlings.
Mintage and Rarity
The 1987 set is particularly special because it was the only year the U.S. Mint issued a two-coin proof set in this specific combination of a 1-ounce and 1/2-ounce coin. After 1987, the U.S. Mint began issuing four-coin sets that included all four denominations (1 oz, 1/2 oz, 1/4 oz, and 1/10 oz).
- 1 oz Proof Gold Eagle Mintage (1987): 147,498
- 1/2 oz Proof Gold Eagle Mintage (1987): 143,398
- Total Sets Sold: The total mintage for the 1987 two-coin set was 143,398.
Packaging and Certificate of Authenticity (COA)
This set was issued in its Original Government Packaging (OGP), which typically includes a display box or velvet case. A Certificate of Authenticity (COA) from the U.S. Mint is included with the set. This certificate verifies the coins’ specifications and guarantees their authenticity as official U.S. Mint products. The presence of the original box and COA is an important factor in determining the value and collectibility of the set.
