Collect U.S. Gold Coins

U.S gold coins were first produced in 1795. Through the years, the U.S. minted several different denominations including the $1, $2.5, $3, $4, $5, $10, and $20 gold piece. The final year of striking any gold coin was 1933 until the mint resumed in 1986. The modern gold coins minted in 1986 and newer, are mostly common, highly collected, available in perfect or near perfect condition, and to many, lack the allure and desirability of any pre-1933 gold coin. 

Gold coins minted prior to 1933 can be obtained in all grades and price ranges. From a low grade $1 gold piece made in the 1850's, which could cost less than a few hundred dollars, to the 1933 $20 gold piece which sold in the millions of dollars, all of these early gold coins are beautiful and highly desired. Purchasing a few of these for your collection or for a gift is a great way to acquire them. 

The first $20 gold coin, referred to as the double eagle, was minted in 1849 and continued until 1933 when the last issue was struck. The mints did not strike double eagles every year. Production was halted a few short years in 1917 through 1919 due to World War 1. Minting resumed in 1920. There are many common date U.S. $20 gold pieces that trade near raw gold value. As gold increases in value, so do the coins. As gold decreases in value, so do these coins. A rare coin, such as the limited issues of the Carson City gold coins, is not typically affected by rising or falling gold prices. 

The U.S. $10 gold piece, referred to as the eagle, was first minted in 1795. These pieces were minted through 1932 though not in every year. Though there are many scarce dates, a nice example of a U.S. $10 gold coin can be had at a reasonable price. 

U.S. gold coins were also issued in smaller denominations from the $1 gold to the $5 gold piece. There were several different designs, and these traded in commerce for several years. A great way to collect a set of gold coins is to put together a "type set" representing the various types of gold coins. This may include a set of Liberty design gold pieces, a set of Indian Head gold pieces, a set of each denomination of gold piece, etc. Oh--and forget the Stella, or $4 gold piece, unless your bank account is overflowing. These coins were short lived, in 1879 and 1880, made as a pattern, and few are available. Be prepared to spend six figures on one of these beauties. 

This is one of our favorite coins. It is a short series, totaling only 15 issues. Philadelphia issued coins for 12 different years, and Denver three years. The rarest of the series is the 1911-D, and the rest can be acquired for relatively little money. It is relatively easy to assemble, and can be the centerpiece of your collection. Also, note the Indian Head $2.5 and $5 gold pieces are the only design ever produced by the US mint with an incuse design.