American Gold Eagle
The American Gold Eagle is the official US gold bullion coin: 22 karat, .9167 fine, issued in four sizes and admitted to IRAs by statute.
The American Gold Eagle is the official gold bullion coin of the United States, struck in 22 karat gold at .9167 fineness and alloyed with silver and copper. The alloy makes the coin harder and more resistant to handling marks than a pure gold coin.
Gold Eagles are issued in four sizes: one ounce, half ounce, quarter ounce, and tenth ounce. In each case the size refers to the gold content, not the coin's gross weight. The one-ounce coin contains a full troy ounce of gold and weighs more than one ounce overall because of the added alloy. The one-ounce coin carries a $50 face value.
As with other US Mint bullion, finish varies. Bullion Gold Eagles are the standard trading product. Proof Gold Eagles are struck on polished dies and sold in Mint packaging, and burnished coins are a separate collector finish.
The Gold Eagle sits below the IRS .995 gold fineness minimum, but it is admitted to retirement accounts by a specific statutory exception, which makes it IRA-eligible when held with an approved depository.
Educational information only, not tax or legal advice. Texas Bullion Exchange does not provide tax or legal advice — confirm your own situation with your tax professional.
A Texas Bullion Exchange specialist can go over Gold Eagle sizes and finishes with you.