-
Inventory:
1 In Stock
- Product ID: 53196
The Certified Proof 2013-W $50 American Gold Eagle, graded PR70 by PCGS with the prestigious First Strike designation, is an exemplary coin representing both artistic beauty and numismatic excellence. The American Gold Eagle series, introduced by the U.S. Mint in 1986, is the nation’s official gold bullion program, and the Proof versions are struck with even greater precision and care to appeal to collectors. The 2013-W edition, minted at the West Point Mint, is made from one troy ounce of 91.67% pure gold and showcases the timeless design that has become a hallmark of U.S. coinage. The PR70 grade reflects the highest level of perfection, indicating that the coin is flawless, with no visible imperfections, even under magnification.
The obverse of the 2013-W Proof $50 American Gold Eagle features the classic design of Lady Liberty, originally created by Augustus Saint-Gaudens for the $20 Double Eagle in 1907. This design, often heralded as one of the most beautiful in American coinage, depicts Liberty striding confidently forward, holding a torch in her right hand and an olive branch in her left. Behind her, rays of sunlight radiate outward, symbolizing enlightenment and progress, while the U.S. Capitol building is faintly visible in the background. The word "LIBERTY" is inscribed above her, and the year "2013" appears at the bottom of the obverse. In PR70 condition, every detail of this iconic image is rendered with stunning clarity, and the coin’s mirrored proof surfaces contrast beautifully with the frosted devices, creating a striking visual effect.
The reverse of the 2013-W Proof $50 Gold Eagle, designed by sculptor Miley Busiek, features a powerful depiction of a family of eagles. A male eagle is shown soaring above a nest, carrying an olive branch in its talons, while a female eagle and her eaglets nest below. This imagery symbolizes strength, unity, and the nurturing spirit of the American family. The inscriptions "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA," "E PLURIBUS UNUM," and "IN GOD WE TRUST" surround the design, along with the coin’s denomination of "50 DOLLARS" and its gold content, "1 OZ. FINE GOLD." In PR70 condition, the reverse is struck with flawless precision, and the intricate details of the eagles and their nest are perfectly crisp. The reflective proof surfaces further enhance the beauty of the design, making this coin a true masterpiece of modern U.S. minting.
The American Gold Eagle program was established by the Gold Bullion Coin Act of 1985 and began production in 1986. It was intended to provide American and global investors with a reliable and recognizable gold bullion coin that carried the backing of the U.S. government. The program includes both bullion and proof versions of the coin, with the Proof Gold Eagles being struck to exacting standards to appeal to numismatists. Each Proof coin undergoes a specialized minting process, where the planchet (blank coin) is struck multiple times under high pressure, resulting in frosted design elements and mirrored backgrounds. The coins are then carefully inspected for quality, and only those that meet the highest standards are graded PR70.
The "W" mintmark on the 2013 Proof Gold Eagle indicates that it was struck at the West Point Mint, which is renowned for its production of high-quality bullion and proof coins. The West Point Mint has been an essential facility for the U.S. Mint since the 1980s, and its reputation for producing exceptional coinage is well known. The First Strike designation, assigned by PCGS, indicates that this coin was among the first coins to be released by the Mint within the first 30 days of production, making it particularly desirable for collectors. The First Strike label adds an extra level of prestige, as these coins are often considered the best examples of their mintage.
The mintage of the 2013-W Proof $50 Gold Eagle was limited compared to the bullion version, making it more exclusive and appealing to collectors who value both the coin’s aesthetic qualities and its rarity. Proof coins, by nature, are struck in smaller quantities to meet the demand of collectors rather than investors. The American Gold Eagle series is struck in 22-karat gold (91.67% pure gold), with the remainder of the alloy consisting of silver and copper to add durability and resistance to wear. The $50 denomination represents one ounce of pure gold, making this coin a tangible asset for both collectors and investors alike.
The Certified Proof 2013-W $50 American Gold Eagle PR70 PCGS First Strike is a perfect blend of artistry, numismatic history, and investment value. The flawless PR70 grade indicates that this coin is in perfect condition, free of any defects or imperfections, which enhances its desirability. Additionally, the First Strike designation adds an extra layer of collectibility, marking it as one of the earliest coins struck in the 2013 production run. Whether valued for its gold content, its numismatic significance, or its status as a piece of American heritage, this coin stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of the American Gold Eagle series. For collectors seeking perfection and beauty in their coins, the 2013-W Proof Gold Eagle PR70 PCGS First Strike is an outstanding choice.