-
Inventory:
1 In Stock
- Product ID: 55063
Checkout
6.png)
The Certified $5 Gold Commemorative 2016-W National Parks MS70 First Strike PCGS is a stunning numismatic tribute to the National Park Service, commemorating its centennial anniversary. Issued by the United States Mint, this gold coin celebrates 100 years of preserving America’s natural and cultural heritage. Struck in 90% gold, it holds both historical and intrinsic value, making it a prized piece for collectors and investors alike. Graded MS70 by the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) and designated as a First Strike, this coin represents perfection in quality, with no post-mint imperfections.
The National Park Service was established in 1916 under the Organic Act, signed into law by President Woodrow Wilson. Its purpose was to manage and protect the nation's growing network of national parks, monuments, and historic sites. Over the past century, the National Park Service has expanded to oversee over 400 sites, preserving landscapes, wildlife, and significant historical locations for future generations. To honor this milestone, the U.S. Mint released a series of commemorative coins, including the $5 gold coin, a silver dollar, and a clad half dollar.
The obverse of the 2016-W National Parks $5 gold commemorative coin features a striking portrait of Theodore Roosevelt, one of the most influential conservationists in American history. Roosevelt was instrumental in expanding the national park system, using his presidency to establish numerous national monuments and protected areas. Designed by artist Joseph Menna and sculpted by U.S. Mint engraver Don Everhart, the obverse captures Roosevelt in profile, exuding strength and vision. The inscriptions include "LIBERTY," "2016," "IN GOD WE TRUST," and "THEODORE ROOSEVELT," along with the "W" mintmark, denoting its origin at the West Point Mint.
The reverse design, also sculpted by Don Everhart, showcases a stunning depiction of a majestic bison standing on a patch of prairie grass. The bison is a powerful symbol of the American wilderness and was nearly driven to extinction before conservation efforts helped restore its population. The inscriptions on the reverse include "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA," "E PLURIBUS UNUM," and "FIVE DOLLARS." The overall design embodies the mission of the National Park Service: to protect the nation’s natural beauty and wildlife for future generations.
The 2016-W National Parks $5 gold commemorative coin was minted at the West Point Mint, known for its exceptional production of bullion and commemorative coins. The "W" mintmark signifies the high level of craftsmanship that West Point brings to modern numismatics. The coin was struck in 90% gold, 6% silver, and 4% copper, a composition that has been traditionally used for U.S. commemorative gold coins. This alloy enhances the durability of the coin while maintaining its intrinsic gold value.
The mintage of the 2016-W National Parks $5 gold coin was limited, with a maximum authorized mintage of 100,000 pieces across both proof and uncirculated versions. The relatively low mintage enhances the coin’s desirability among collectors, as fewer examples exist in the numismatic market. Given its significance in celebrating a century of national park conservation, demand for high-grade specimens remains strong.
The MS70 grade assigned by PCGS indicates that this coin is in flawless Mint State condition. Coins graded MS70 exhibit no post-mint imperfections under magnification, making them the highest-quality examples available. This pristine condition ensures that the coin maintains its full value, both as a collectible and as an investment in gold. The First Strike designation further adds to its appeal, signifying that the coin was received by PCGS within the first 30 days of its official release from the U.S. Mint.
First Strike coins are highly sought after in the numismatic community because they are among the earliest examples struck from fresh dies. Early strikes often have sharper details and a higher level of luster compared to later-produced coins. The First Strike designation on this 2016-W National Parks $5 gold commemorative makes it even more desirable for collectors looking to acquire the best possible specimens.
The visual appeal of this MS70 specimen is exceptional. The surfaces exhibit a brilliant golden hue, free of blemishes or handling marks. The fine details of Roosevelt’s portrait and the intricately rendered bison stand out sharply against the background, demonstrating the craftsmanship of the West Point Mint. The strike quality is superb, ensuring that all elements of the design are crisply defined.
As a commemorative coin, the 2016-W National Parks $5 gold piece holds both numismatic and historical significance. It appeals to collectors who appreciate the history of the National Park Service, as well as those who value coins featuring iconic American imagery. The combination of a limited mintage, perfect MS70 condition, and First Strike designation makes this coin a premier addition to any collection.
The National Park Service Commemorative Coin Program was not only a celebration of the agency’s centennial but also a fundraising effort. A portion of the proceeds from the sale of these coins was allocated to the National Park Foundation to support conservation and educational initiatives. This connection to a noble cause enhances the coin’s significance, as buyers contributed to the ongoing protection of America’s national parks.
The 2016-W National Parks $5 gold coin also holds intrinsic investment value due to its gold content. With 0.2419 troy ounces of pure gold, it carries tangible worth tied to the precious metals market. Investors appreciate modern gold commemoratives for their dual benefit of numismatic collectibility and bullion value, making them an attractive option for diversifying a portfolio.
As time passes, the availability of MS70 First Strike examples of the 2016-W National Parks $5 gold coin will become increasingly limited. Many of these coins are held in private collections, and their scarcity in top condition ensures strong demand in the numismatic market. High-grade gold commemoratives, particularly those with historical significance, have demonstrated long-term value appreciation.
For collectors building a comprehensive set of modern U.S. commemorative gold coins, the 2016-W National Parks $5 gold piece is an essential acquisition. It represents an important chapter in American conservation history while showcasing the exceptional craftsmanship of the U.S. Mint. The coin’s association with Theodore Roosevelt, the bison, and the National Park Service elevates its historical and artistic importance.
The Certified $5 Gold Commemorative 2016-W National Parks MS70 First Strike PCGS stands as a tribute to a century of preserving America’s natural beauty. With its flawless condition, limited mintage, and historical significance, it remains one of the most meaningful and valuable modern U.S. gold commemorative coins. Its combination of numismatic excellence and investment appeal ensures that it will be cherished by collectors and investors for generations to come.