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Inventory:
1 In Stock
- Product ID: 56915
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| Metal/Chg | Bid | Ask |
|---|---|---|
| Updated: 07/16/25 02:56:01 | ||
Gold
 7.83
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$3,331.89 | $3,346.43 |
The Certified American $50 Gold Eagle 2021 Type 2 PF70 NGC with Mercanti Signature is a landmark modern numismatic treasure that bridges the past and future of American coinage. This coin marks the first major design overhaul of the American Gold Eagle series since its debut in 1986. Struck in 2021 in stunning proof format, this one-ounce .9167 fine gold coin is graded a perfect PF70 by the Numismatic Guaranty Company (NGC), ensuring flawless quality. Its encapsulation also bears the signature of John Mercanti, the legendary 12th Chief Engraver of the U.S. Mint, adding historical and collector value to this already exceptional issue.
The American Gold Eagle program was established under the Gold Bullion Coin Act of 1985, with coins first released in 1986. Since then, the series has become the official gold bullion coin of the United States and a globally trusted investment product. For 35 years, the reverse featured Mercanti’s heraldic eagle design, but in mid-2021, the U.S. Mint introduced a new reverse design for the first time. Coins struck before the transition are referred to as “Type 1,” while those with the updated reverse are classified as “Type 2.” This 2021 Type 2 Gold Eagle is part of the first generation to feature the bold new reverse artwork by artist Jennie Norris, making it a must-have for collectors and a significant piece of modern American coin history.
The obverse retains Augustus Saint-Gaudens’ classic 1907 design of Lady Liberty, widely considered one of the most beautiful in U.S. coinage. Liberty strides forward with flowing hair, holding a torch in her right hand and an olive branch in her left. Behind her, the sun rises in a burst of rays, and the U.S. Capitol building is seen to her left. For the 2021 Type 2 release, the Mint made subtle but significant enhancements to the obverse design using original historical assets and modern technology. These include improved details in Liberty’s facial features, drapery, and the Capitol dome, offering a truer-to-original rendition of Saint-Gaudens’ masterpiece. The word “LIBERTY” arcs across the top, and the date “2021” appears near the bottom right field, rendered in a refreshed font consistent with modern U.S. Mint standards.
The new reverse by Jennie Norris presents a left-facing close-up portrait of a bald eagle, a striking and intimate design emphasizing the majesty and strength of the national bird. It replaced the original Type 1 heraldic eagle designed by Mercanti himself, making this Type 2 issue an essential transition piece for collectors. The eagle’s gaze is intense and expressive, rendered with finely etched detail in the feathers and beak. The inscriptions read “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” “E PLURIBUS UNUM,” “IN GOD WE TRUST,” along with the weight, purity, and denomination: “1 OZ. FINE GOLD~50 DOLLARS.” On this flawless PF70 specimen, every fine element—from the sharp lines of the feathers to the mirrored proof fields—is perfectly preserved and crisp under magnification.
The proof version of the 2021 $50 Gold Eagle was struck at the West Point Mint, identifiable by the “W” mintmark to the left of Liberty’s foot on the obverse. Proof Gold Eagles are produced using specially prepared dies and polished planchets to create a frosted design that contrasts dramatically against the mirrored background. The 2021-W Type 2 Proof Gold Eagle has a limited mintage, further enhancing its scarcity and desirability. While exact production figures were not released immediately, U.S. Mint orders were capped due to high demand, and sellouts occurred quickly after release. Collectors rushed to obtain the first examples of the new reverse, especially in top grade with signature labels like this.
NGC’s Proof 70 Ultra Cameo grade confirms this coin is without flaws, even under 5x magnification. It shows no post-production imperfections, such as hairlines, spots, or handling marks. The Ultra Cameo designation means the contrast between the frosted devices and mirrored fields is particularly strong, adding depth and drama to both sides of the coin. Encapsulation in an NGC holder protects the coin while also certifying its authenticity and condition. This specific label includes the hand-signed signature of John Mercanti, linking the coin’s modern evolution back to the original creator of the Type 1 reverse design. The Mercanti label is especially fitting for this transitional piece, as it reflects both the end of an era and the beginning of a new one.
With its perfect PF70 grade, Type 2 designation, and Mercanti-signed label, this coin is among the most desirable proof Gold Eagles of the 21st century. As demand for early Type 2 issues with flawless grades continues to rise, examples like this become harder to acquire on the secondary market. Collectors assembling complete sets of Gold Eagles, or those focusing on key transition issues, place a premium on coins from this pivotal year. The Mercanti signature further sets this piece apart, as it provides a direct connection to the legacy of the program's original reverse design and its creator.
Beyond its numismatic prestige, the 2021-W Type 2 Proof $50 Gold Eagle contains a full troy ounce of .9167 fine gold. Its gold weight and U.S. legal tender status make it an attractive asset for investors, even as its proof finish and certified status position it well above standard bullion. This blend of investment and collectible value makes it suitable for both long-term holding and estate-building. It can serve equally well in a retirement portfolio or as the centerpiece of a modern U.S. gold collection.
The Certified American $50 Gold Eagle 2021 Type 2 PF70 NGC Mercanti Signature is not just a modern gold coin—it is a landmark piece in the evolution of U.S. coinage. With a flawless grade, bold new reverse design, enhanced obverse details, and the autograph of one of America’s most celebrated coin engravers, it stands as a monumental issue for both seasoned collectors and first-time buyers. It captures a historic moment when tradition met transformation and was executed with unmatched precision and artistry.