2016-W $25 1/2 oz American Gold Eagle PCGS MS70, 30th Anniversary, First Strike, Moy Signature
Discover an extraordinary piece of American numismatic history: the 2016-W $25 1/2 oz American Gold Eagle coin, meticulously graded PCGS MS70. This remarkable specimen holds a unique place in the series, celebrating the 30th Anniversary of the American Gold Eagle program. Certified as a "First Strike" and featuring the esteemed signature of former U.S. Mint Director Edmund C. Moy, this coin stands as a testament to perfection and historical significance, making it a highly coveted collectible for discerning enthusiasts.
Historical Significance of the American Gold Eagle
The American Gold Eagle program, launched in 1986, quickly established itself as a flagship series for the United States Mint. Its design pays homage to Augustus Saint-Gaudens' iconic "Lady Liberty" walking proudly on the obverse, a symbol of freedom and optimism. The reverse, designed by Miley Busiek, beautifully depicts a family of eagles, representing strength and unity. The 2016 edition holds particular importance as it commemorates three decades since the program's inception, adding a distinct layer of collector appeal to these already popular precious metal coins.
Key Features of This Certified Masterpiece
- Denomination: This coin carries a legal tender denomination of $25.
- Precious Metal Content: Composed of 1/2 troy ounce of pure gold, with a fineness of .9167 (22-karat), adhering to the highest standards for U.S. gold coinage.
- Mint Mark: Bearing the 'W' mint mark, signifying its origin from the renowned West Point Mint.
- PCGS MS70 Grade: Certified by PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service) at Mint State 70, indicating a coin with a perfect strike and no post-mint blemishes visible at 5x magnification. This is the highest possible grade for a circulating coin.
- 30th Anniversary Designation: Marks the three-decade milestone of the esteemed American Gold Eagle series.
- First Strike Certification: Awarded to coins submitted to PCGS within the first 30 days of their official release, confirming its status among the earliest minted examples.
- Moy Signature: The PCGS certification label features the authentic hand-signature of Edmund C. Moy, the 38th Director of the United States Mint, adding a rare personal touch from a significant figure in U.S. numismatics.
- Collector Appeal: The confluence of its perfect grade, anniversary status, early release, and prestigious signature makes this particular 2016 Gold Eagle a premier addition to any advanced U.S. coin collection.
Collecting Tips for Gold Eagle Coins
Preserving the pristine condition of a certified coin like this PCGS MS70 American Gold Eagle is paramount. Always handle the coin by its sealed protective slab to prevent oils and debris from affecting the surface. Store your numismatic treasures in a secure, stable environment away from extreme temperature fluctuations and humidity. When expanding your collection, always verify the authenticity and certification of coins by purchasing from reputable dealers and relying on trusted grading services such as PCGS.
Acquire This Numismatic Treasure
Opportunities to acquire such a uniquely distinguished 2016-W 1/2 oz American Gold Eagle are rare. This PCGS MS70, 30th Anniversary, First Strike coin with the Edmund C. Moy signature is a prime example of numismatic excellence. Don't miss the chance to enhance your collection with this exceptional and highly sought-after U.S. gold coin. Secure this historical and perfectly graded American Gold Eagle for your collection today.
