Bullion > Gold Bullion & Coins > 1/2 oz American Gold Eagle

1/2 oz American Gold Eagle


Obverse

Reverse


SKU: GE.50CD

Weight: 0.5455 troy oz.

Fineness: .916 / 22 karats

Dimensions: 27mm

Thickness: 2.24mm

Gold Content: 0.5 troy oz.

1/2 oz Gold American Eagle

The 1/2 oz American Gold Eagle is a distinguished fractional gold coin and part of the larger American Gold Eagle series, which has remained one of the most recognized and widely collected gold bullion programs in the world since its launch in 1986. Authorized under the Gold Bullion Coin Act of 1985, the series was created to offer a reliable, government-backed way for individuals to acquire gold in a form that combines historical artistry with exceptional metal content. The 1/2 oz denomination offers the same enduring design and guaranteed gold content as the full-ounce version, but in a smaller, more versatile format suitable for a variety of needs.

Key Features:

  • Purity: The 1/2 oz American Gold Eagle is struck from 22-karat gold (91.67% pure), with the balance made up of silver and copper. This alloy not only provides added strength and resistance to wear, but also gives the coin its signature warm hue, setting it apart from pure gold coins that may be more susceptible to damage during handling.

  • Design: The obverse features Augustus Saint-Gaudens’ iconic depiction of Lady Liberty, striding forward with a torch in her right hand and an olive branch in her left, set against a backdrop of sun rays and the U.S. Capitol building. The reverse, updated in 2021 for the series’ 35th anniversary, presents Jennie Norris’s striking left-profile of a bald eagle, showcasing intricate feather detail and a powerful gaze that symbolizes strength, leadership, and national pride.

  • Denomination: This coin contains 1/2 troy ounce of fine gold and carries a legal face value of $25. Though its intrinsic metal value far exceeds its stated denomination, the face value affirms its status as official U.S. legal tender and ensures its recognizability in both domestic and international markets.

  • IRA Eligibility: The 1/2 oz American Gold Eagle meets IRS requirements for inclusion in self-directed Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs). This eligibility allows collectors to add physical gold with guaranteed purity and U.S. Mint certification to their retirement portfolios, offering both diversity and tangible security.

The 1/2 oz American Gold Eagle combines historical elegance, practical size, and enduring appeal—making it an ideal choice for those looking to add a trusted and beautifully crafted gold coin to their collection.