How to Buy Gold Coins from the Government

The U.S. Mint sells gold coins directly to the public.

Collectors interested in purchasing gold coins from the government can buy them from the U.S. Mint, the American agency charged with striking coins for circulation in the United States.

Types

Gold coins sold by the U.S. Mint feature different designs, many of them honoring classic issues. The American Buffalo1-ounce gold coin mimics the Buffalo nickel minted from 1913 to 1938 while the American Eagle 1-ounce gold coin takes its design from the $20 gold coin minted from 1907 to 1933. Many numismatists consider this one of the most beautiful coins ever produced.

Features

The coins often come in a collector's hardwood box with a certificate of authenticity included. The mint strikes the coins in proof form, using special dies to make the highest-quality coin produced by the mint.

Potential

Numismatists prize gold coins and the often-rising price of gold helps these coins maintain their value. The American Eagle issues were so popular that the mint could not produce any of the proof coins in 2009 due to a lack of 22-karat gold blanks.

References

• "Whitman's Red Book: A Guide Book to United States Coins 2008"; R.S. Yeoman; 2008
• U.S. Mint: Online Catalog