1986 $50 Gold Eagle (Regular Strike)

The 1986 $50 Gold Eagle holds significant importance as it marks the inaugural year of the American Gold Eagle series, a prestigious bullion coin program initiated by the United States Mint. As the first gold bullion coin produced by the U.S. since 1933, this coin has considerable historical value among numismatists and investors alike. The Gold Eagle series represents a key milestone in American coinage and a significant step in re-establishing gold currency in the U.S. market after a prolonged absence. ### Mintage and Mint Details The 1986 $50 Gold Eagle was minted at the West Point Mint, which remains the primary facility for producing Gold Eagles today. With a substantial mintage of 1,362,650 coins, the 1986 Gold Eagle is not among the rarest in terms of production numbers but is valued for its status as the first in the series. Each coin contains 1 troy ounce of pure gold, contributing to its appeal and value. ### PCGS Information - **Mint Year**: 1986 - **Mint mark**: No mint mark - **Mintage**: 1,362,650 - **PCGS Number**: 9827 ### Value and Sales Despite its higher mintage compared to other years, the 1986 $50 Gold Eagle's value is buoyed by its status as the first-year issue, appealing to collectors. As of recent sales documented in various auction venues, certified examples in higher grades can command premiums above the melt value of the gold content. For instance, coins graded MS70 by PCGS can achieve substantially higher prices compared to those at lower grades such as MS60. In recent auction history, MS69 and MS70 grades have consistently fetched impressive prices. For example, a 1986 $50 Gold Eagle in MS70 can sell for several thousand dollars, with some sales recorded in the mid-four figures depending on market conditions and collector demand. ### Numismatic Significance Numismatically, the 1986 $50 Gold Eagle bears significance due to its reintroduction of gold coinage in America after the Gold Recall Act of 1933, aligning with the movement toward democratizing bullion investment. The obverse features the famous design by Augustus Saint-Gaudens, originally used on the $20 Double Eagles from 1907 to 1933, which depicts Lady Liberty striding forward confidently. The reverse, designed by Miley Busiek, depicts a male eagle carrying an olive branch flying above a nest with a female eagle and eaglets, symbolizing family and peace. ### Collectability From a collectability perspective, the prominence of this initial issue in the American Gold Eagle series cannot be overstated. Collectors often seek the 1986 $50 Gold Eagle to complete their series collections or to hold a piece of modern American numismatic history. Given its foundational role, this coin serves as a cornerstone for those interested in American numismatics and bullion investment alike, offering historical and monetary value. In conclusion, the 1986 $50 Gold Eagle continues to captivate both investors and collectors. Its historical inception, combined with the appeal of gold ownership and American heritage coinage designs, ensures its lasting presence in numismatic circles.