American Platinum Eagles
The American Platinum Eagle is the official platinum bullion coin of the United States. The coins are offered as part of the American Eagle Bullion program, which also includes Gold Eagles and Silver Eagles.
Platinum Eagles contain .9995 fine platinum and are guaranteed by the United States Government for weight, content, and purity. Platinum Eagles are the only official investment grade platinum coins offered by the US Mint.
Platinum Eagles were authorized by Congress and signed into law by President Clinton on September 30, 1996. The US Mint produced the coins in 1997 and first offered them for sale on June 6, 1997.
The coins are offered in four different denominations. Each legal tender denomination contains a different fractional amount of platinum. The $100 coin contains one ounce of platinum. The $50 coin contains one-half ounce of platinum. The $25 coin contains one-quarter ounce of platinum. The $10 coin contains one-tenth ounce of platinum.
Coins have been available in either uncirculated or proof versions since the series launched in 1997. The proof versions generally have a cameo finish. This type of finish has frosted raised elements over a mirrored background. Starting in 2006, the US Mint offered a collectible uncirculated version of the coin. This differs from the uncirculated bullion versions since it carries a “W” mint mark and is struck on specially burnished blanks.
The obverse design of the coin features a rendition of the Statue of Liberty by US Mint Sculptor/Engraver John Mercanti. The standard reverse design features a soaring eagle by US Mint Sculptor/Engraver Thomas D. Rogers. Starting in 1998, the reverse design of the proof version of the coin has featured a rotating design which always incorporates an American Eagle.
Newly issued Platinum Eagle bullion coins can generally be obtained from major coin and previous metals dealers. Newly issued proof and collectible uncirculated versions can be purchased directly from the US Mint. Prior year Platinum Eagle Coins can be purchased from some coin dealers or on coin auction sites.