1987 1 oz Gold Eagle $50 NGC MS69

In the tumultuous year of 1987, as the world grappled with economic uncertainties and geopolitical tensions, the United States Mint released a coin that would become a symbol of stability and enduring value. The 1987 1 oz Gold Eagle $50 coin, only in its second year of production, quickly captured the imagination of investors and collectors alike. This wasn't just another gold coin; it was a testament to America's resilience and a bridge between the nation's storied past and its promising future.

The late 1980s were a time of rapid change. The Cold War was nearing its end, Wall Street was riding high, and technology was reshaping the world at an unprecedented pace. Amidst this whirlwind of progress, the Gold Eagle stood as a tangible link to America's golden heritage. Its design, rooted in the early 20th century, spoke of timeless values and unwavering strength – qualities that resonated deeply with a nation on the cusp of a new era.

For numismatists, the 1987 Gold Eagle represented more than just its weight in precious metal. It was a canvas that told the story of American artistry and craftsmanship. The obverse, featuring Augustus Saint-Gaudens' iconic Lady Liberty, was a masterpiece that had graced the $20 gold piece from 1907 to 1933. Now, it found new life on the Gold Eagle, bridging generations of coin enthusiasts and history buffs.

The reverse of the coin, designed by Miley Busiek, offered a contemporary counterpoint to the classic obverse. Its depiction of a family of eagles – a powerful male returning to the nest where a female tends to her young – was a poignant symbol of American family values and the nation's protective spirit. This juxtaposition of old and new, classic and modern, made the 1987 Gold Eagle a uniquely compelling piece for collectors.

In the world of numismatics, condition is king, and the MS69 grade of this particular specimen places it among the elite. This near-perfect grade speaks volumes about the coin's preservation and the care with which it has been handled over the decades. For collectors, such a high grade in an early year of the series is particularly noteworthy, offering a rare glimpse into the coin's original luster and detail as it appeared fresh from the mint.

As we look back from our vantage point in the 21st century, the 1987 Gold Eagle stands as a capsule of its time – a year when the Dow Jones hit 2,000 for the first time, when the first "The Simpsons" short aired on The Tracey Ullman Show, and when the world held its breath during the October stock market crash. Through it all, this golden disc, with its timeless design and inherent value, offered a sense of continuity and stability that continues to resonate with collectors and investors today.

Design Features

The obverse of the 1987 1 oz Gold Eagle $50 coin showcases Augustus Saint-Gaudens' breathtaking rendition of Lady Liberty. This design, often hailed as one of the most beautiful in American coinage, depicts Liberty in full-length figure, striding forward with purpose and grace. Her flowing hair catches an unseen breeze, while her right hand holds aloft a torch, symbolizing enlightenment. In her left hand, she carries an olive branch, a universal symbol of peace. The Capitol building is visible in the background, grounding the design in American iconography. Encircling this central image are 50 stars, representing the states of the Union. The date, rendered in Roman numerals as "MCMLXXXVII," adds a classical touch to this modern coin.

The reverse, designed by Miley Busiek, presents a heartwarming and symbolic family scene of American bald eagles. A male eagle, wings spread wide, descends towards a nest containing a female eagle and her hatchlings. In its talons, the male carries an olive branch, echoing the theme of peace from the obverse design. This imagery not only represents the strength and unity of the American family but also serves as a powerful metaphor for the protective nature 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. The intricate detailing of the eagles' feathers and the nest demonstrates the high level of craftsmanship that went into the creation of this coin.

Product Highlights

• Metal Type: Gold
• IRA Eligible: No
• Obverse: Augustus Saint-Gaudens' Lady Liberty design, striding forward with torch and olive branch.
• Reverse: Miley Busiek's family of eagles design, symbolizing American strength and unity.

Investment Appeal

The 1987 1 oz Gold Eagle $50 NGC MS69 stands as a compelling investment opportunity for both seasoned numismatists and those new to coin collecting. Its near-perfect MS69 grade ensures that the coin's original beauty and detail have been preserved in exceptional condition, making it a prized addition to any collection. As one of the earlier issues in the American Gold Eagle series, this 1987 coin holds particular historical significance, potentially enhancing its numismatic value over time.

The coin's composition of 22-karat gold provides a tangible store of value, offering a hedge against economic uncertainties. Gold's enduring appeal as a precious metal adds an extra layer of investment security. Moreover, the American Gold Eagle series is renowned for its liquidity in the global market, ensuring that investors can easily trade or sell their coins if needed.

For collectors, the artistic merit of the coin cannot be overstated. The combination of Saint-Gaudens' classic Liberty design and Busiek's modern eagle family creates a unique aesthetic appeal that transcends mere bullion value. This artistic significance, coupled with the coin's historical context in the late 1980s, makes it a fascinating piece for those interested in American cultural and economic history.

The MS69 grade of this particular coin sets it apart from the majority of 1987 Gold Eagles in circulation. This exceptional condition not only enhances its collectible value but also provides a visual treat for the owner, allowing them to appreciate the intricate details of the design in nearly pristine condition.

In conclusion, the 1987 1 oz Gold Eagle $50 NGC MS69 offers a rare combination of historical significance, artistic beauty, and investment potential. Whether as a centerpiece in a numismatic collection or as part of a diversified investment portfolio, this coin represents a piece of American heritage that continues to hold value and fascination in the modern era.