WASHINGTON — The United States Mint today announced that its 2003 American Eagle Platinum Proof Coins will go on sale September 17, 2003, at 12:00 noon (Eastern Time). This year’s American Eagle Platinum Proof reverse design marks the first time in history that both the American Bald Eagle and our Nation’s flag have appeared together on a United States coin.
The 2003 reverse design, by United States Mint sculptor–engraver Al Maletsky, features the American Bald Eagle perched vigilantly on a Rocky Mountain pine branch, superimposed over Old Glory — two of our Nation’s most enduring symbols. The coin’s obverse, designed by United States Mint sculptor–engraver John Mercanti, features Lady Liberty, evoking the spirit of freedom with her serene gaze, her face and crown seemingly lit by the torch she holds aloft. The coin bears the mint mark of the West Point Mint.
For the first time in three years, the price of the American Eagle Platinum Proof Coins will be adjusted to compensate for increasing platinum prices, which affect the overall production costs of the program. The newly–adjusted prices for the American Eagle Platinum Proof Coins will be $1,073 per one–ounce coin, $587 per half–ounce coin, $329 per quarter–ounce coin, $170 per tenth–ounce coin and $1,995 for the four–coin set. All American Eagle Platinum Proof Coins are presented in luxurious velvet packaging, and are accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity.
Unlike previous years of the American Eagle Platinum Proof Coin program, the United States Mint will continue to sell the 2003–dated coins until the 2004 program is launched or until a sellout occurs, whichever comes first. Mintages of these coins are strictly limited (see below). Orders received after mintage limits are reached will not be processed.
| Platinum Proof | Product Limit | Sale price |
|---|---|---|
| One–ounce | 4,000 | $1,073 |
| Half–ounce | 3,000 | $587 |
| Quarter–ounce | 5,000 | $329 |
| Tenth–ounce | 10,000 | $170 |
| Four–coin set | 10,000 | $1,995 |