1987 1/10 oz Gold Eagle $5 NGC MS69

In the tumultuous year of 1987, as the world grappled with economic uncertainties and the looming threat of the Cold War, the United States Mint continued its nascent American Gold Eagle program with the release of the 1987 1/10 oz Gold Eagle. This coin, part of the second year of production for the series, emerged as a beacon of stability and American resilience during a time of global flux.

The American Gold Eagle program, initiated just a year earlier in 1986, was born out of the Gold Bullion Coin Act of 1985. This legislation aimed to compete with foreign bullion coins and provide American investors with a domestically produced alternative. The timing couldn't have been more crucial. As the 1987 Black Monday stock market crash sent shockwaves through the global economy, many investors turned to precious metals as a safe haven.

The 1987 1/10 oz Gold Eagle, with its accessible size and weight, became a popular choice for those seeking to diversify their portfolios without committing to larger, more expensive denominations. Its introduction coincided with a period of renewed interest in numismatics and precious metal investing, driven by economic uncertainty and a growing awareness of the importance of tangible assets.

This coin's design harks back to one of the most beloved figures in American numismatic history: Augustus Saint-Gaudens. His iconic depiction of Lady Liberty, originally created for the Double Eagle gold coin in 1907, graces the obverse of the 1987 Gold Eagle. This design choice was no mere aesthetic decision; it represented a deliberate link to America's golden age of coinage, invoking a sense of nostalgia and continuity in uncertain times.

The year 1987 also marked a pivotal moment in Cold War history, with President Reagan's famous "Tear down this wall!" speech in Berlin. The Gold Eagle, with its powerful imagery of liberty and strength, served as a tangible symbol of American values and economic might during this period of geopolitical tension.

For numismatists and investors alike, the 1987 1/10 oz Gold Eagle represents more than just its gold content. It embodies a snapshot of American history, a testament to economic resilience, and a continuation of artistic excellence in coinage. Its release in the MS69 grade by NGC further cements its status as a premium collectible, preserving its near-perfect condition for generations to come.

Design Features

The obverse of the 1987 1/10 oz Gold Eagle showcases Augustus Saint-Gaudens' timeless Lady Liberty design. Liberty strides forward confidently, her flowing hair and robes caught in an unseen breeze. She holds a torch high in her right hand, symbolizing enlightenment, while her left hand carries an olive branch, representing peace. The Capitol building is visible in the background, and 50 stars encircle the design, representing the states of the union. The word "LIBERTY" is prominently displayed, along with the year "1987" in raised lettering.

On the reverse, we find Miley Busiek's family of eagles, a design that perfectly complements the obverse's classical imagery with a more contemporary touch. A male eagle, wings spread, descends towards a nest containing a female eagle and her hatchlings. This powerful scene symbolizes family values, protection, and the nurturing spirit of the nation. The inscriptions "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA," "E PLURIBUS UNUM," and "IN GOD WE TRUST" encircle the image, along with the weight and face value of the coin.

Product Highlights

• Metal Type: Gold
• IRA Eligible: No
• Obverse: Features Augustus Saint-Gaudens' iconic Lady Liberty design
• Reverse: Displays Miley Busiek's family of eagles design

Investment Appeal

The 1987 1/10 oz Gold Eagle $5 NGC MS69 stands out as an exceptional investment opportunity for several compelling reasons. Its MS69 grade, certified by the respected Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC), ensures that the coin is in near-perfect condition, with only microscopic imperfections that are invisible to the naked eye. This high grade significantly enhances its numismatic value beyond its intrinsic gold content.

As a early issue in the American Gold Eagle series, this 1987 coin holds particular appeal for collectors seeking to complete sets or acquire historically significant pieces. The series' reputation for consistent quality and the U.S. Mint's stringent production standards contribute to its global recognition and liquidity.

Moreover, the coin's 1/10 oz size offers flexibility for investors. It allows for easier divisibility of wealth and can be more accessible for those looking to start or expand their precious metals portfolio without committing to larger denominations. This versatility, combined with its historical significance and artistic merit, makes the 1987 1/10 oz Gold Eagle an attractive option for both seasoned collectors and newcomers to numismatic investment.

The enduring popularity of the American Gold Eagle series ensures a robust secondary market, potentially offering favorable premiums over spot gold prices. As a tangible asset backed by the U.S. government, it provides a hedge against inflation and economic uncertainty, making it a prudent addition to any diversified investment strategy.