These American Gold Eagles minted at the US Mint have been certified and graded by PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service), their experts assign grades depending on the condition and quality of the specimen. The ‘W’ mint mark on the reverses of these coins boast the West Point Mint as their origin, like all other American Gold Eagle Proof coins. Originally produced for die-checks and archival, proof coins are now minted in large numbers due to their popularity among coin collectors.
Just like their bullion counterparts, American Gold Eagle proof coins are also available in four weights – 1 oz, ½ oz, ¼ oz, and 1/10 oz. Although the weight of gold varies depending on the variant purchased, all of them are struck using 0.9167 pure gold (22-karat). Coins that do not display even slight imperfections, under magnification, are assigned the highest possible grade by PCGS – PR-70.
PCGS is one of the oldest coin-grading agencies in the United States and was established in 1985. It is headquartered in Santa Ana, California. The sole aim of the seven dealers, including the current president of PCGS, David Hall, while setting up the agency was – providing more information about coins to the public, before they dip into their wallets. Over the past three decades, PCGS has built a solid reputation upon millions of accurate grades, making it one of the most respected authorities on coin grades.
Unlike the uncirculated American Gold Eagles that were released only in 2006, proof and bullion coins have been around since 1986. Since then, these coins have become a mainstay in many coin collections and investment portfolios.
The elegant portrayal of Lady Liberty, one of the most iconic symbols of Liberty in the United States of America, by Augustus Saint-Gaudens graces the obverse faces of the American Gold Eagles. With the United States Capitol building in the backdrop, the image shows Lady Liberty marching forward holding a torch in one hand and an olive branch in the other. A family of Bald Eagles is depicted on the reverse of these proof coins, created by Miley Busiek in 1986. An adult male is seen protectively soaring above a nest, where the rest of its family awaits its return.
Proof coins, especially ones designated ‘Deep Cameo’ by PCGS, feature a unique frosted finish on the designs, giving them an entirely new and stylish look compared to other variants of the American Gold Eagles. Moreover, PCGS encases these coins in secure plastic slabs, ensuring that they remain safe during transit and storage. Attractive labels inside these containers display the details of the coins including, but not limited to, the year of issue, the grade assigned, designations and certifications (if any), etc.
The enhanced designs on the proof coins make them an attractive gold coin, drawing the interest of collectors all over the globe. These sealed PCGS graded American Gold Eagle Proof coins from several years will go a long way in completing coin collections with the desired grade and certifications.