First released in 1997, the American Platinum Eagle is the official platinum bullion coin of the United States. Available in four denominations—1/10 ounce, ¼ ounce, ½ ounce, and 1 ounce—these coins are made of 0.9995 fine platinum. Collectors can also find proof and uncirculated versions of these coins. The proof of the 1-troy-ounce coin features an alternating reverse design, which makes it unique among American bullion coins.
From 1998 through 2002, the reverse designs depicted a bald eagle in different regions of the United States. The years 2006 to 2008 saw a series of designs that featured the three branches of the U.S. government. In 2009, the U.S. embarked on a six-year plan to illustrate the core concepts of American democracy as outlined in the U.S. Constitution. One interesting fact about these platinum eagles is that, for purposes of taxation, the IRS solely considers their precious metal content and not their collectibility.
