Capturing the core American values of peace, liberty, and enlightenment in one of the world’s rarest precious metals, the 2016 American Eagle platinum proof coins are a promising addition to any investment portfolio or collection.
Limited “Torches of Liberty” Design
Throughout the 235-plus year history of the U.S. Mint, Lady Liberty has taken many forms on American coinage, and the 2016 American Eagle platinum coin offers two strong, statuesque representations of the torch-bearing icon. The 2016 platinum American eagle proof coin is the second in a two-year program called “Torches of Liberty” that started in 2015.
Any proud American will quickly recognize the depiction of Lady Liberty on the coin’s obverse because it resembles the nationally treasured Statue of Liberty. She looks ahead to the future with her arm outstretched, presumably holding the torch of enlightenment. “Liberty” is inscribed above her head, “2016” and “In God We Trust” to her right, and “E. Pluribus Unum” near her arm in the lower, left corner of the coin.
The classically inspired portrayal of Lady Liberty on the reverse may remind collectors of older American coinage. The robed Liberty striding forth in Augustus Saint-Gaudens’ double eagle certainly comes to mind. She thrusts the torch of enlightenment in front of her as if guiding the bald eagle behind her. In her other hand, she holds a notably large olive branch bearing thirteen olives, one for each of the original colonies. A “W” is engraved below the branch, while “.9995 Platinum 1 oz.” hugs the bottom left corner of the coin and “United States of America” the top. “$100” is inscribed in the left center of the coin.
Why the 2016 Platinum American Eagle Proof Coin Is a Wise Investment
Released by the U.S. Mint on June 30, 2016, the 2016American Eagle platinum proof coin sold out within less than a hour! There are several reasons investors and collectors covet this coin. An annually changing reverse design makes each platinum American Eagle especially rare and collectible. Then there is the coin’s intrinsic worth, which is promising since the value of platinum has been skyrocketing. Add to this the fact the these coins are eligible for a precious metals IRA and their investment potential becomes even more alluring!
American Eagle Platinum Specs:
First mint date | 1997 |
Purity | 99.95% pure platinum |
Mint Mark | W (West Point) |
Grade | Proof and Bullion |
Eligible for a precious metals IRA
Available in four sizes:
- 1 oz – $100 face value
- ½ oz – $50 face value
- ¼ oz – $25 face value
- 1/10 oz – $10 face value
Interesting Facts about the 2016 Platinum American Eagle Proof Coin
- Former Chief Engraver for the U.S. Mint, John Mercanti, designed and sculpted the modern representation of Lady Liberty on the obverse, and the image has graced it since the American Eagle Platinum coin’s inception in 1997.
- U.S. Mint Artistic Infusion Program Designer Paul C. Balan designed the reverse, and Sculptor-Engraver Joseph Menna sculpted it.
- The design for the reverse of the coin changes every year; however, specific themes have influenced certain ranges of years. For example, a bald eagle was depicted in different regions of the United States for the “Vistas of Liberty” program from 1998 to 2002.
Add a 2016 Platinum American Eagle Proof Coin to Your Portfolio
Would you like to learn more about the 2016 platinum American Eagle proof coin? Are you interested in adding one to your financial portfolio? The experts at Scottsdale Bullion and Coin can help. Contact a professional today at 1-888-812-9892.