How To Buy American Gold Eagle Coins: Complete Guide
How To Buy American Gold Eagle Coins: Complete Guide
Master the art of buying America's most popular gold bullion coins with expert strategies and insider knowledge
American Gold Eagles are among the most popular types of bullion coins both in the United States and around the world. They are struck by the United States Mint and have been in production since 1986, making them one of the longest-running gold series around. They have been the prime choice for bullion collectors and investors for going on two generations.
The American Eagle gold bullion coinage is monetized, meaning that they have a face value and are legal tender. This also means the purity and fineness of the gold are backed up by the full faith of the United States government. In other words, the coin has a second means of built-in value.
Therefore, in the unlikely but possible scenario the market price of gold was to plummet to levels unseen for decades, American Gold Eagles would still be worth at least as much as their face value. This government backing makes them an excellent choice when you're ready to invest in physical gold.
Complete Buying Guide
Where To Buy American Gold Eagles
Looking for American Gold Eagles? These aren't the kinds of coins that will just show up in your pocket change, and you won't even find them at most banks or financial institutions. Instead, you will need to seek out a coin dealer or bullion broker.
Specialized Dealers
- Extensive knowledge and expertise
- Large inventory selections
- Competitive pricing structures
- Authentication guarantees
Why Choose Professionals
- Resources for bulk purchasing
- Best price availability
- Market knowledge and guidance
- Secure transaction processing
Expert Advantage
Coin dealers and bullion brokers have the specialized knowledge and resources to purchase large amounts of American Gold Eagles and other precious-metals coins. That gives you the biggest selection of bullion coins and the best prices. When you're ready to purchase gold bullion, working with established dealers ensures authenticity and fair pricing.
Types and Sizes Available
This is a question best answered by evaluating your finances and considering your short-term and long-term investment goals. Before we break down the best types of American Gold Eagles to buy, it's important to know there are two types of American Gold Eagle coins, available in four sizes and denominations.
Two Types Of American Gold Eagles
Bullion / Brilliant Uncirculated
- Priced close to gold spot price
- Available through Authorized Distributors
- Sold individually, tubes of 20, or monster boxes of 500
- Best value for bullion investment
- Eligible for self-directed IRA inclusion
Proof Coins
- Struck at West Point Mint with "W" mint mark
- Available directly from U.S. Mint
- Collectible coin with numismatic premium
- Higher price per gram of gold content
- Also eligible for self-directed IRA
Four Weights (Sizes) Of American Gold Eagles
Available Denominations
Design Features and History
Each of the sizes shares the same iconic design elements that have made American Gold Eagles instantly recognizable worldwide.
Reverse Design Evolution
- 1986-2020: Family of eagles by Miley Busiek
- Eagle carrying olive branch to nest
- Inscriptions include "E PLURIBUS UNUM"
- 2021-Present: Close-up American bald eagle
- 35th anniversary commemorative design
Obverse Design (Constant)
- Augustus Saint-Gaudens 1907 design
- Lady Liberty with torch and olive branch
- U.S. Capitol Building in background
- Rising sun symbolism
- Roman numerals used 1986-1991
Design Significance
The Saint-Gaudens obverse design is considered one of the most beautiful coin designs ever created, contributing to the American Gold Eagle's popularity among both investors and collectors. This artistic heritage adds numismatic appeal beyond the coin's bullion value.
How to Choose the Right Type
Decisions about which American Gold Eagle to buy ultimately come down to cost considerations and investment objectives. Let's break down the key factors:
Bullion vs. Proof Decision
Size Selection Strategy
1/10 oz Eagles
Pros: Lowest upfront cost, ideal for new investors, fractional liquidity
Cons: Highest cost per gram of gold, larger premiums
Best for: Beginning investors, small regular purchases, gift giving
1 oz Eagles
Pros: Best value per gram, lowest premiums, most liquid
Cons: Higher upfront investment required
Best for: Serious investors, bulk purchasing, long-term holding
Value Optimization
Generally, the larger your bullion coin, the lower the cost of obtaining the metal on a gram-by-gram basis. If you're looking for the best overall deal and want to ensure you're paying as little as possible for the gold content, the 1 troy ounce version is your best bet. Track current pricing with live gold spot prices to time your purchases optimally.
The Buying Process Explained
American Gold Eagles are relatively easy to buy. Most dealers and bullion brokers can sell them to you in a straightforward transaction that usually does not involve much paperwork.
Payment Options
- Cash and personal checks
- Bank wire transfers
- Credit cards (may include fees)
- Cryptocurrency options
- Some methods may have nominal fees
Purchase Methods
- In-person: Same-day acquisition
- Online: Convenient and discreet
- Price locked at payment receipt
- Shipping time varies by location
- Secure packaging and insurance
Transaction Process
With a purchase at a physical store, you could obtain your American Gold Eagles on the same day as purchase. Meanwhile an online transaction is much more convenient and can be more discreet. Your price is locked in at the time your payment is received, but you'll need to wait for shipping—a process that could take a few days depending on the service and distance.
Finding the Best Deals
Shop around for a fair price on American Gold Eagles—not necessarily the cheapest price. While it may be instinct for some to seek cheap Gold Eagles, this can ultimately be a dangerous route.
Beware of Too-Good-To-Be-True Deals
No business is just giving away gold, so what incentive would a retailer who advertises Gold Eagles below spot have? Think about it... Be wary of suspiciously low prices. They almost always indicate problems. Imagine winding up with stolen or counterfeit gold coins—you'll be out money and possibly end up in court having to explain yourself before a judge and jury.
What to Look for in a Dealer
Dealer Qualifications
- Many years of experience
- Industry organization affiliations
- National Inflation Association membership
- National Coin and Bullion Association
- Positive customer reviews and ratings
Service Standards
- Vast inventory at reasonable prices
- Satisfaction guarantees offered
- Authenticity verification processes
- Transparent pricing structures
- Professional customer service
Smart Shopping Strategy
Seek out a knowledgeable, reputable gold coin dealer or broker who has many years of experience. This is by far your best option. Choose a seller who is affiliated with numerous industry organizations and offers a vast inventory at reasonable prices. You're sure to get the best all-around deal when working with such dealers who offer satisfaction guarantees and the peace of mind that you purchased authentic American Gold Eagles at a fair and honest price.
Other Gold Investment Options
Let's take a step back for a moment and look at buying gold products from the holistic perspective. Yes, American Gold Eagles are among the most popular vehicles for buying gold. But they certainly aren't your only option!
Alternative Gold Coins
International Gold Coins
- Canadian Maple Leafs
- South African Krugerrands
- Mexican Libertads
- Chinese Pandas
- Austrian Philharmonics
Each enjoys an audience on their own merits, though all gold coins usually come with the highest overall price tag on a gram-for-gram basis.
Cost-Effective Alternatives
Gold Rounds: Non-monetized circular discs with designs, lower premiums than coins
Gold Bars/Ingots: Least expensive option, rectangular units with weight and purity inscriptions
Some vintage bars are collectible and carry premiums, similar to silver bars and older silver coins.
Jewelry and Art Considerations
Gold jewelry and art represent other routes for obtaining gold. These can represent some aesthetically pleasing means for buying precious metals. However, most gold jewelry and art usually costs significantly more than the value of the precious metal within. As a result, it's not necessarily an economically viable method of investing in gold from the bullion standpoint.
Disclaimer: This guide is for educational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Precious metal investments involve risk, including potential loss of principal. Past performance does not guarantee future results. Always consult with qualified financial advisors before making investment decisions.