The American Gold Eagle coin takes flight

In 1985, the Gold Bullion Coin Act was signed into law, allowing the US Treasury to begin minting brand new gold bullion coins for the first time since 1933, when citizens were banned from owning gold coins, bullion, or certificates — and the US Mint halted coin production. The 1986 coins were intended to be produced using only gold mined at specific domestic locations. They were also to be imprinted with their gold content in addition to their face value.

Following the passing of the act, the American Eagle gold coin became one of the most popular gold bullion coins.

Learn more about American Eagle Gold Bullion Coins and the history of the United States Mint.