-
Inventory:
1 In Stock
- Product ID: 56563
Checkout
| Metal/Chg | Bid | Ask |
|---|---|---|
| Updated: 06/15/25 10:50:01 | ||
Gold
 15.87
|
$3,448.27 | $3,462.40 |
The Certified Proof American Gold Eagle $50 1989 PR70 PCGS represents one of the most pristine examples from the third year of the United States Mint's flagship gold bullion coin program. Introduced in 1986, the American Gold Eagle series was designed to offer investors and collectors a reliable, beautifully crafted gold coin backed by the U.S. government. The 1989 proof issue continues the tradition with high-relief artistry and flawless production, while the PCGS PR70 grade signifies a coin that has been preserved in perfect condition, free from even the slightest post-strike imperfection.
The American Gold Eagle series was authorized under the Gold Bullion Coin Act of 1985, which mandated that all gold used must be sourced from U.S. reserves and that the coins carry symbolic imagery reflecting national heritage. The $50 denomination represents the largest of the four sizes issued—comprising one full troy ounce of gold—and is the flagship of the series. The 1989 proof edition, unlike its bullion counterpart, was specifically struck for collectors, featuring a mirror-like field and frosted devices that showcase the coin’s intricate design details.
The obverse design of the coin features Augustus Saint-Gaudens’ legendary image of Lady Liberty, adapted from his original 1907 Double Eagle creation. Liberty strides forward confidently, her hair flowing, holding a lit torch in her right hand symbolizing enlightenment and an olive branch in her left representing peace. Behind her, the rays of the sun fan outward in a dramatic burst of energy, while the U.S. Capitol building appears in the lower left field. This iconic image has been widely lauded as one of the most beautiful in American numismatic history, and it provides a strong connection to early 20th-century artistry in a modern context.
The reverse of the 1989 Gold Eagle was designed by Miley Busiek and depicts a powerful family portrait of American bald eagles. A male eagle returns to his nest with an olive branch in his talons, where a female eagle shelters her hatchlings. This image conveys strength, unity, and familial protection—values held in high regard in American culture. The inscriptions include “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” “E PLURIBUS UNUM,” and “IN GOD WE TRUST,” along with the denomination and weight—“1 OZ. FINE GOLD ~ 50 DOLLARS.” The proof version enhances every detail of this design with sharply defined lines and deep contrasts.
All 1989 proof Gold Eagles were struck at the West Point Mint and carry the "W" mintmark, though the coin’s label from PCGS is often the clearest way to distinguish the proof version. Each coin was struck multiple times using specially prepared dies to ensure high-definition clarity and a distinctive cameo contrast. This intensive production process limits the number of coins the Mint can produce annually, resulting in lower mintages compared to bullion editions. In 1989, the mintage for the $50 Proof Gold Eagle was just 54,570, making it one of the scarcer early proof issues in the series.
PCGS, the Professional Coin Grading Service, is one of the most respected third-party grading services in the world. Their PR70 designation stands for “Proof 70,” the highest grade possible on the Sheldon scale. This indicates a coin with no visible flaws even under 5x magnification. The encapsulated coin is preserved in a sonically sealed tamper-evident holder with a certification label that confirms its authenticity and grade. For serious collectors and investors, PR70 coins represent the ultimate in perfection, making them especially desirable for high-end collections or long-term holdings.
Proof coins like the 1989 PR70 Gold Eagle are distinct from bullion issues in several key ways. The proof finish is achieved through polished planchets and specially treated dies that impart a deep mirror field and frosted designs. These coins are struck at lower pressures and often multiple times to bring out the detail. They are not intended for circulation but rather for presentation, commemoration, and collecting. Additionally, they were originally sold by the U.S. Mint in velvet-lined display cases with certificates of authenticity, which often enhance their appeal when accompanied by the original packaging.
The 1989 edition holds significance as part of the early era of the Gold Eagle program. Coming just three years after the inaugural 1986 release, the 1989 Proof $50 Gold Eagle continued to establish the series’ reputation for exceptional quality and iconic design. It is among the more sought-after early-year proofs, particularly in PR70 condition, where relatively few examples have survived to receive this flawless grade. The limited mintage and collector demand create strong market interest in high-grade specimens like this certified example.
As a one-ounce gold coin with guaranteed purity (.9167 fine or 22-karat gold), the 1989 PR70 Gold Eagle also holds intrinsic value based on the prevailing market price of gold. However, its collector premium significantly exceeds its melt value due to the combination of early issuance, perfect grade, and certified authenticity. Investors and collectors alike value the PR70 for its condition rarity, eye appeal, and long-term appreciation potential. It stands as a symbol of stability and wealth, much like gold itself throughout human history.
The Certified Proof American Gold Eagle $50 1989 PR70 PCGS remains a stunning and significant artifact of American numismatics. With its flawless finish, majestic design, and certified perfection, it captures both the spirit of the nation and the technical achievements of the U.S. Mint. As part of the foundation years of the Gold Eagle series, this coin offers collectors a tangible connection to the legacy of American gold coinage, wrapped in artistry, precision, and timeless value. Whether as a standalone masterpiece or part of a complete proof set, it is a distinguished treasure in any portfolio or collection.