1997-W $50 American Gold Eagle

The 1997-W 1 oz American Gold Eagle had a total mintage of just under 33,000 coins. This Proof coin was struck at the West Point Mint and featured the ‘W’ mint mark on the obverse of the coin. Proof coins typically displayed the mint mark while uncirculated, regular strike coins did not. It’s possible to find the 1997-W $50 American Gold Eagle in most grades including a perfect Proof 70, despite its low mintage.

History of the 1997-W $50 American Gold Eagle

The 1997-W $50 American Gold Eagle is a beautiful Proof coin that is worth finding with a sharp strike and attractive surfaces. This coin is the official gold bullion coin of the United States. The obverse of the American Gold Eagle was designed by Augustus Saint Gaudens, and features a rendition of the full-length Lady Liberty with hair and dress flowing. She holds a torch in her right hand and an olive branch in her left. There is a small image of the Capitol building in the background. The reverse of the coin was designed by sculptor, Miley Busiek. A male American Bald Eagle clutching an olive branch, flying over a nest with a female eagle and her baby can be found on the reverse.