2002 (W) Proof American Eagle Twenty Five Dollar Gold

Coin Details

Auction Record

$1,164 PR70DCAM 03-16-2022 Heritage Auctions

Description

The 2002 (W) Proof American Eagle Twenty Five Dollar Gold is a proof Gold Eagle struck at the West Point Mint, part of the American Eagle Twenty Five Dollar Gold 1986 to Date series. With a mintage of 26,646, this is a scarce issue — the lower-mintage of the two mint variants. The obverse features Liberty striding forward holding a torch and olive branch, with rays of sunlight behind her — widely considered the most beautiful U.S. coin design — adapted from the Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle and the reverse displays a family of eagles — an adult and two juveniles — in a nest, designed by Miley Busiek (1986-2020) or an eagle portrait by Jennie Norris, the redesigned reverse introduced in 2021 (2021+). A modern issue from an era of rotating coin designs, collector-focused programs, and renewed interest in numismatic artistry. As a proof issue, this coin was struck multiple times on specially prepared polished planchets using polished dies, producing mirror-like fields and frosted design elements prized by collectors. Struck at the West Point Mint, originally a bullion depository that became a full coin production facility, specializing in commemorative and bullion issues. Estimated market value is approximately $11K. Struck in 91.67% gold, 3% silver, 5.33% copper, weighing 16.97 grams, 27 mm in diameter, with a reeded edge. Cataloged as PCGS #99962.