The American Gold Eagle was first released in 1986, wherein the Proof Gold Eagle also made it's debut of 1 oz coins. It wasn't until 1988, that the Proof American Gold Eagle Coin became available in four sizes, like it's BU counterpart: 1 oz, 1/2 oz, 1/4 oz, and 1/10 oz. Besides the obvious difference, between the two finishes of the Brilliant Uncirculated and Proof American Gold Eagles, another major difference is the packaging of the coins.
The Proof American Gold Eagle's packaging is more aesthetically pleasing than the Brilliant Uncirculated coin tubes. The Proof American Gold Eagle itself is encased in an appropriately fitted capsule then placed into a velvet presentation box with its Certificate of Authenticity. The presentation box is then protected by an official US Mint cardboard box. Since the Proof American Gold Eagles are not minted, at the same quick pace to meet demand, as the Brilliant Uncirculated coins, their value is higher and allures investors into this coin program, as well its loyal collectors.
