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Inventory:
3 In Stock
- Product ID: 53995
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| Metal/Chg | Bid | Ask |
|---|---|---|
| Updated: 11/21/24 11:32:01 | ||
Gold
 23.10
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$2,672.62 | $2,685.66 |
The Certified Burnished American $50 Gold Eagle 2021-W Type 2, graded MS70 by NGC, is a significant and collectible coin from one of the most well-known gold bullion programs in the world. The 2021 release marks a milestone in the American Gold Eagle series as it introduces the Type 2 reverse design, a change from the original design used since the series' inception in 1986. This burnished version of the Gold Eagle, struck at the West Point Mint, features a matte-like finish that distinguishes it from the more common bullion and proof versions. The MS70 grade, the highest possible grade for a coin, means that this piece is in flawless condition, with no imperfections visible even under magnification.
The American Gold Eagle series began in 1986 following the passage of the Gold Bullion Coin Act of 1985. Since its introduction, the series has been a favorite among both investors and collectors due to its combination of beauty, purity, and backing by the U.S. government. The $50 denomination represents the 1 oz version of the coin, which contains one troy ounce of 22-karat gold (91.67% pure gold), with the remaining alloy consisting of copper and silver to enhance the coin's durability. The 2021 issue is particularly noteworthy because it features the new Type 2 reverse design, which replaced the original reverse used for over three decades. This change was part of a broader effort by the U.S. Mint to refresh the design of the iconic American Gold Eagle series while maintaining its status as one of the premier gold bullion coins in the world.
The obverse of the 2021-W Type 2 Burnished American Gold Eagle continues to feature the classic image of Lady Liberty, designed by Augustus Saint-Gaudens. This design was originally created for the $20 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle and is widely considered one of the most beautiful and iconic images in American coinage. Lady Liberty is shown striding forward with 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 inscribed above her head. The obverse date "2021" is positioned at the bottom, and the West Point Mint's "W" mintmark is found on the obverse, indicating its origin from the prestigious mint. In MS70 condition, the obverse details are perfectly preserved, with the burnished finish adding a unique matte texture that enhances the overall elegance of the design.
The reverse of the 2021-W Type 2 Burnished American Gold Eagle is where the most significant change occurs. For the first time in the series' history, the reverse features a new design by artist Jennie Norris, depicting a close-up profile of a bald eagle’s head. This striking and detailed image highlights the powerful features of the eagle, with its sharp beak and intense gaze symbolizing strength, freedom, and independence. Surrounding the eagle are the inscriptions "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA," "1 OZ. FINE GOLD," and the coin's face value, "50 DOLLARS." The phrases "E PLURIBUS UNUM" (Out of many, one) and "IN GOD WE TRUST" are also inscribed on the reverse. The detailed engraving of the eagle's feathers and features, combined with the matte-like burnished finish, gives the reverse a bold and majestic appearance. In MS70 condition, the reverse is flawless, with every detail rendered with perfect clarity.
The burnished finish of the 2021-W American Gold Eagle sets it apart from the regular bullion and proof versions. The burnishing process involves polishing the coin blanks (planchets) before they are struck, resulting in a soft, matte-like texture that differs from the shiny surfaces of the bullion coins and the mirror-like fields of proof coins. Burnished Gold Eagles are struck in limited quantities and are intended primarily for collectors, offering a more refined and elegant version of the standard Gold Eagle. The "W" mintmark on the obverse signifies that the coin was produced at the West Point Mint, a facility known for its high-quality coin production and its role in producing bullion and commemorative coins.
The 2021-W Type 2 Burnished American $50 Gold Eagle was minted in limited numbers, making it a highly desirable piece for collectors. The introduction of the Type 2 reverse design adds to the coin's significance, marking the beginning of a new era in the American Gold Eagle series. Coins graded MS70 by NGC are considered perfect, with no visible flaws or imperfections. The NGC certification, along with the special silver label, adds another layer of assurance and prestige to the coin, making it a standout piece in any collection.
The American Gold Eagle series is known for its combination of beauty, historical significance, and investment potential, and the 2021-W Type 2 Burnished Gold Eagle continues this tradition. With its flawless MS70 grade, burnished finish, and the introduction of the new bald eagle reverse, this coin is both a stunning work of art and a valuable investment. Collectors and investors alike will appreciate the rarity, craftsmanship, and symbolic importance of this 2021 release, making it a must-have for anyone interested in modern U.S. gold coinage.