-
Inventory:
1 In Stock
- Product ID: 53994
Checkout
| Metal/Chg | Bid | Ask |
|---|---|---|
| Updated: 11/19/24 06:54:01 | ||
Gold
 14.46
|
$2,625.80 | $2,638.88 |
The 2016-W Certified Burnished American $50 Gold Eagle, graded SP70 by PCGS with a silver label, is a remarkable coin that stands out in the prestigious American Gold Eagle series. Struck at the West Point Mint, this burnished version of the iconic Gold Eagle combines the beloved design with a unique finish that appeals to both collectors and investors alike. The "SP70" grade represents the highest possible condition, indicating that the coin is flawless, with no visible imperfections even under magnification. As a burnished coin, this American Gold Eagle differs from its bullion and proof counterparts, offering a matte-like finish created through a specialized minting process that results in a more refined and elegant appearance.
The American Gold Eagle series was first introduced in 1986 following the passage of the Gold Bullion Coin Act of 1985. The series has since become one of the most popular gold bullion programs in the world, offering coins in four different denominations: 1 oz, 1/2 oz, 1/4 oz, and 1/10 oz. Each coin is composed of 22-karat gold, or 91.67% pure gold, with the remaining alloy consisting of silver and copper to enhance the coin’s durability. The $50 denomination represents the 1 oz version, which contains exactly one troy ounce of gold. The burnished version of the American Gold Eagle was introduced by the U.S. Mint in 2006 to offer collectors a different aesthetic from the standard bullion and proof finishes. The 2016-W Burnished Gold Eagle continues this tradition, with the "W" mintmark indicating its origin at the West Point Mint.
The obverse of the 2016-W Burnished American Gold Eagle features one of the most iconic designs in U.S. coinage history: Augustus Saint-Gaudens’ depiction of Lady Liberty. Originally created for the $20 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle, this design has been adapted for the Gold Eagle series and remains one of the most celebrated representations of Liberty. Lady Liberty is shown striding forward, holding a torch in her right hand and an olive branch in her left, symbolizing enlightenment and peace. Rays of sunlight radiate from behind her, and the U.S. Capitol building is visible in the background. Surrounding Liberty are 50 stars, representing the 50 states of the Union, and the word "LIBERTY" is prominently displayed above her head. In SP70 condition, the intricate details of this iconic design are perfectly preserved, with the burnished finish adding a unique texture and subtle matte appearance that enhances the beauty of the artwork.
The reverse of the 2016-W Burnished American Gold Eagle showcases a family of eagles, a design by sculptor Miley Busiek. The central image depicts a male eagle in flight carrying an olive branch, returning to a nest where a female eagle and her hatchlings await. This powerful symbol of strength, family, and patriotism is surrounded by the inscriptions "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA," "1 OZ. FINE GOLD," and the coin’s face value, "50 DOLLARS." The phrase "E PLURIBUS UNUM" (Out of many, one) and the national motto "IN GOD WE TRUST" are also inscribed on the reverse. The burnished finish of the coin lends a soft, matte texture to the eagle design, bringing out the fine details of the feathers, the nest, and the olive branch with remarkable clarity. In SP70 condition, the reverse is as flawless as the obverse, with no marks, scratches, or other imperfections.
The burnishing process used to create this 2016-W Gold Eagle distinguishes it from other versions of the coin. Before striking, the coin blanks (also known as planchets) are specially polished, giving them a matte, satin-like finish. Once struck, the burnished coins are handled with extreme care to ensure they remain free of blemishes. Unlike the mirror-like surfaces of proof coins or the standard finish of bullion coins, the burnished Gold Eagle has a more subdued appearance, making it a favorite among collectors who appreciate the subtle beauty of this unique finish. The "W" mintmark on the reverse signifies that the coin was produced at the West Point Mint, which is known for its high-quality coin production, especially for bullion and commemorative issues.
In 2016, the U.S. Mint produced a limited number of Burnished American Gold Eagles, and while exact mintage figures may vary from year to year, these coins are generally minted in smaller quantities than their bullion counterparts. This relative scarcity, combined with the burnished finish and the flawless SP70 grade, makes the 2016-W Burnished Gold Eagle an especially valuable piece for collectors. PCGS’s silver label adds another layer of prestige to the certification, assuring collectors that the coin has been graded by one of the most reputable third-party grading services in the world.
As a certified SP70 coin, the 2016-W Burnished American $50 Gold Eagle represents the pinnacle of quality in numismatics. Coins graded SP70 are considered perfect, with no visible flaws even under magnification. This makes them highly desirable among collectors who seek only the best examples of modern coinage. The combination of the coin’s iconic design, its burnished finish, its flawless grade, and its limited mintage makes it a standout piece in the American Gold Eagle series. Whether for its investment potential or its aesthetic appeal, the 2016-W Burnished American $50 Gold Eagle is a treasure for any collector of modern U.S. gold coins.