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The Gold $5 Commemorative 1996 Flag BU coin is a bold tribute to one of the most enduring symbols of the United States—the American flag—and it honors the 220th anniversary of the founding of the nation's emblem. Issued by the United States Mint in 1996 as part of the broader Flag Act commemorative program, this gold half eagle was produced in both Proof and Uncirculated (BU) versions. The coin celebrates the ideals embodied in the American flag, including liberty, unity, and resilience, making it a powerful statement piece among modern U.S. commemoratives. The BU version offers collectors a crisp, unpolished finish that emphasizes the integrity of its strike and preserves its original luster from the mint.
The coin was authorized under Public Law 104-57, which approved the production of $5 gold, $1 silver, and half dollar clad commemoratives to mark the 220th anniversary of the 1776 adoption of the Stars and Stripes. This legislation directed the U.S. Mint to design and issue coins that would not only celebrate the historic importance of the flag but also raise funds to benefit programs promoting the preservation of this national icon. Each $5 gold coin was struck from a composition of 90% gold and 10% alloy, consistent with other modern commemorative gold issues, and contains 0.2419 troy ounces of pure gold.
The obverse of the 1996 $5 Flag BU coin was designed by artist James Peed. It features a detailed and uplifting depiction of a modern American flag flying in the wind, with rippling fabric that gives the illusion of motion. Behind the flag, 13 stars form a circular pattern, symbolizing the original colonies. This design pays homage to the first official flag adopted under the Flag Resolution of 1777, while the depiction of the flag in flight evokes national pride and freedom. The inscriptions “LIBERTY,” “IN GOD WE TRUST,” and the dual date “1776-1996” emphasize the flag’s historic legacy and enduring relevance in the modern era.
The reverse of the coin, designed by Thomas D. Rogers Sr., presents a magnificent eagle with outstretched wings and its talons clutching an olive branch and arrows. This powerful image recalls the Great Seal of the United States, reinforcing themes of peace and defense. Surrounding the eagle are the inscriptions “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” “E PLURIBUS UNUM,” and “FIVE DOLLARS.” The reverse design ties the coin’s theme back to traditional American heraldry, connecting the symbolism of the flag with that of the eagle—a national icon representing strength, vigilance, and independence.
The coin was struck at the West Point Mint, as indicated by the “W” mintmark, a detail that enhances its appeal among collectors. West Point is renowned for its high-quality precious metal coinage, and its output of modern commemoratives is particularly prized for its striking standards and finish. The 1996-W Flag $5 Gold BU is no exception, offering excellent detail and brilliant surfaces consistent with the Mint’s most refined uncirculated products. Though less commonly encountered than its Proof counterpart, the BU version is prized for its original, unadorned beauty and often lower mintage.
Mintage for the 1996-W $5 Flag BU gold commemorative was limited to just 47,836 coins. This modest figure is relatively low among modern commemorative gold coins and contributes significantly to its desirability. While the proof version saw higher distribution, the BU version is frequently underappreciated and more difficult to find in pristine condition. Given its limited production, the coin’s historical theme, and its gold content, the 1996 Flag BU has maintained strong collector interest since its release and remains a standout in any collection of U.S. gold commemoratives.
The Brilliant Uncirculated (BU) condition of the coin reflects its mint state, meaning it has never been circulated and retains its original luster and sharpness. A BU coin exhibits no signs of wear, though minor contact marks from the minting and handling process may be present under magnification. The surfaces of a well-preserved BU 1996 $5 Flag gold coin should be bright, clear, and well-struck, with all design elements—such as the folds of the flag and the feathers of the eagle—appearing crisp and defined. The coin’s edge is reeded, providing both a tactile detail and an added measure of security against tampering.
Collectors often seek the 1996-W Flag $5 BU gold coin not only for its beautiful design and low mintage but also for its symbolic significance. The coin stands as a modern representation of America’s commitment to its foundational ideals, and the flag serves as a unifying image that transcends political and generational divides. As a result, the coin appeals to patriotic collectors, veterans, historians, and those who admire meaningful modern numismatic art. Its gold content also gives it appeal to bullion-focused collectors who prefer pieces with both intrinsic and historical value.
The 1996 $5 Flag gold coin is also notable for its place in the broader evolution of U.S. commemorative coinage. After the modern commemorative program was revived in 1982, the U.S. Mint issued a series of gold, silver, and clad coins that explored a wide variety of American themes—ranging from Olympic sports to national parks and historical anniversaries. The Flag series stands apart for its celebration of one of the most recognizable and cherished national symbols, making it a staple in collections focused on themes of freedom, identity, and unity.
Today, examples of the 1996-W Flag $5 Gold BU coin continue to be actively traded in the numismatic marketplace. While not as widely encountered as the Proof version, BU examples graded by leading third-party services such as PCGS or NGC often command a premium, particularly those that achieve high Mint State designations like MS69 or MS70. Raw BU examples also remain attractive for collectors who value the authenticity and tactile experience of owning an original U.S. Mint product. The combination of gold purity, powerful symbolism, and limited mintage ensures this coin's place in the canon of great American commemoratives.
The Certified Gold $5 Commemorative 1996 Flag BU coin offers collectors an outstanding opportunity to own a piece of numismatic history that honors the American spirit. With its artistic representation of the Stars and Stripes, its strong strike and preserved brilliance, and its origins at the West Point Mint, this coin stands as a shining tribute to the ideals the flag represents. Whether part of a modern gold commemorative collection, a patriotic display, or a portfolio blending historic and intrinsic value, the 1996 Flag BU remains an inspiring and enduring symbol of American pride.