Washington, D.C. — The U.S. Mint today announced that sales of the recently released Platinum American Eagle Bullion Coins have pushed total platinum coin sales over 85,000 ounces, surpassing the highest annual platinum investment coin sales total for North America since 1988.
“Sales of Platinum Bullion Eagles have out paced predictions,” said Mint Director Philip N. Diehl, “and with the half–ounce and quarter–ounce Platinum Bullion Eagles now available, investors have two more options for their precious metals portfolio.
Sales of 46,100 ounces of Platinum Bullion Eagles (on sale since September 23) and sales of 35,382 ounces of Proof Platinum Eagles (on sale since June 6), combined with sales of 4,048 ounces in the Four Coin Platinum Bullion Set and jewelry offered in the Mint’s annual catalog, have lifted total platinum sales to 85,530 ounces.
The Nation’s first platinum coins are the first U.S. bullion coins to bear an engraving of their purity (.9995 fine), and the one ounce Platinum Eagle with a face value of $100 is the highest denomination ever in U.S. coinage. The half–ounce carries a $50 face value; the quarter–ounce a $25 face value, and the tenth–ounce a $10 face value. The obverse design is Mint Sculptor/Engraver’s John Mercanti’s “Portrait of Liberty,” and the reverse design is Mint Sculptor/Engraver Thomas D. Rogers Sr.’s “Soaring Bald Eagle.
As with American Eagle Gold and Silver Bullion coins, the Platinum Bullion coins are not available directly from the Mint but are sold through a network of major coin and precious metals dealers, financial institutions and brokerage houses, and other retail locations. Sales prices reflect current market prices for platinum plus a small premium. Dealer information is available at 1–800–USA–GOLD. Proof Platinum Eagles are available directly from the Mint by calling 1–800–USA–4653.