Gold Eagle Specifications
Technical details and investor-facing facts for the 1 oz American Gold Eagle, America's most popular gold bullion coin.
Technical Specifications
| Gold Purity | .9167 fine (22-karat) |
| Alloy Composition | 91.67% gold, 3% copper, 5.33% silver |
| Fine Gold Content | 1.0000 troy ounce (31.1035 g) |
| Gross Weight | 1.0909 troy ounces (33.931 g) |
| Diameter | 32.70 mm (1.287 in) |
| Thickness | 2.87 mm (0.113 in) |
| Face Value | $50 USD (legal tender) |
| Mint | United States Mint |
| First Minted | 1986 |
| Edge | Reeded |
| IRA Eligible | Yes |
Understanding the 22-Karat Alloy
The Gold Eagle is minted from a .9167 fine alloy (22-karat). Despite the alloy, each 1 oz coin contains exactly 1 troy ounce of fine gold. The copper and silver add durability without reducing gold content.
- •Full gold content: 1.0000 troy ounce of fine gold per 1 oz coin
- •Alloy metals: 3% copper and 5.33% silver add scratch resistance
- •Gross weight: 1.0909 troy ounces total (alloy adds weight, not gold)
- •Historical precedent: Same 22-karat standard used for historic U.S. gold coins and British sovereigns
Learn more about Gold Eagle specifications at Monex Knowledge Base
Legal Tender Status
The American Gold Eagle carries a $50 face value and is official United States legal tender. This government backing provides:
Authenticity Assurance
Produced by the U.S. Mint with strict quality controls and anti-counterfeiting measures.
Government Guarantee
Weight and purity backed by the full faith of the United States government.
Market Recognition
Widely recognized and accepted by dealers worldwide, supporting liquidity.
IRA Eligibility
Specifically named in IRS code as an approved asset for Precious Metals IRAs.
IRA Eligibility Considerations
American Gold Eagle coins qualify for inclusion in a Precious Metals IRA (Self-Directed IRA). Key considerations:
- ✓Specifically named in IRS code as an approved gold investment
- ✓Produced by the U.S. Mint (approved national mint)
- ✓Must be held by an IRS-approved custodian and depository
- ✓Cannot be stored at home for IRA purposes
Note: This is general information, not tax or investment advice. Consult a qualified tax professional or IRA custodian for guidance specific to your situation.
Understanding Premium Drivers
Gold Eagle coins trade at a premium above the spot price of gold. Factors that influence premiums include:
Minting Costs
U.S. Mint production, quality control, and distribution expenses.
Dealer Margins
Wholesale and retail markups that fund dealer operations.
Supply & Demand
Mint production capacity versus investor demand for physical gold.
Market Conditions
Economic uncertainty, inflation concerns, and safe-haven demand can increase premiums.
Product Recognition
The Gold Eagle's government backing and global recognition support competitive spreads.
View current Gold Eagle pricing at Monex Price Charts
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purity of the American Gold Eagle?
The American Gold Eagle is .9167 fine gold (22-karat). The alloy consists of 91.67% gold, 3% copper, and 5.33% silver. This composition creates a harder coin that resists scratching and wear better than pure gold.
How much gold is in a 1 oz Gold Eagle?
The 1 oz American Gold Eagle contains exactly 1.0000 troy ounce (31.1035 grams) of fine gold. The copper and silver alloy adds weight, bringing the total coin weight to 1.0909 troy ounces (33.931 grams). The gold content is the same as a 1 oz .9999 fine coin.
Is the Gold Eagle legal tender?
Yes. The American Gold Eagle carries a $50 face value and is official U.S. legal tender, backed by the United States government. The intrinsic gold value exceeds the face value.
Can I hold Gold Eagle coins in an IRA?
Yes. American Gold Eagle coins are specifically named in IRS code as approved assets for Precious Metals IRAs. You need a qualified custodian and an approved depository to hold IRA-owned coins.
Why does the Gold Eagle have a premium over spot price?
Premiums cover U.S. Mint production costs, distribution through Authorized Purchasers, and dealer margins. They also reflect the coin's legal tender status and global recognition. Premiums fluctuate with market conditions and demand.
How does the Gold Eagle compare to the Gold Buffalo?
The Gold Eagle is .9167 fine (22-karat) while the Gold Buffalo is .9999 fine (24-karat). Both contain 1 troy ounce of gold. The Eagle weighs more due to its alloy and is more scratch-resistant. The Buffalo is softer pure gold. Both are U.S. Mint products and IRA-eligible.
What affects Gold Eagle premiums?
Premium drivers include mint production capacity, dealer inventory, demand for physical gold, and broader market conditions. During periods of high demand or supply constraints, premiums typically increase above normal levels.
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