Every year, millions of Americans use legal-tender gold coins to help diversify their portfolios. But within the world of precious metals, there’s an even more elite category of gold coins that can provide additional levels of protection. The pinnacle of this category is the iconic Proof Gold American Eagle coin.
But what are proof coins, and what sets the Proof Gold American Eagle apart from its bullion counterpart? Here are four facts about proof gold that can help you make a more educated decision when purchasing precious metals for your portfolio:
Proof coins feature enhanced designs.
The term “proof” refers to an enhanced appearance and finish. For example, unlike bullion Gold American Eagle coins, which feature a standard finish, Proof Gold American Eagles feature sharper details, a frosty finish on their raised elements, and a mirrored finish on their fields (backgrounds).
To achieve a proof finish, highly polished blanks are individually hand-fed into coin presses before being struck multiple times under extreme pressure.
Proof coins have significantly smaller mintages.
In addition to their enhanced appearance, proof coins’ mintages—the number of coins produced each year—is a major draw for gold buyers.
The difference in mintages can be staggering: In 2023, for example, around 924,000 1 oz. Gold American Eagle bullion coins were minted, while fewer than 15,000 1 oz. Proof Gold American Eagle coins were produced. This relative scarcity supports increased demand and higher prices for proof coins.
Proof coins can experience greater profit potential.
Because the price of gold bullion coins is almost entirely based on their precious metals content, any growth they experience will be mostly tied to the market price of gold.
Proof coins, however, can benefit from additional demand and growth based on their scarcity, condition, and other factors.
Proof Gold Eagles are eligible for inclusion in gold IRAs.
When looking to protect and grow your retirement savings, the Proof Gold American Eagle presents an attractive option.
As official legal tender struck by the U.S. Mint, Proof Gold American Eagle coins are eligible for inclusion in self-directed IRAs, also known as precious metals IRAs or simply gold IRAs.
Whether proof gold is right for you may depend on your unique financial situation and goals. Speak with a U.S. Money Reserve Account Executive today about available inventory, current market prices, and exclusive offers you won’t find anywhere else.
