Washington, D.C. — The U.S. Mint today reported that sales of Platinum American Eagle Bullion Coins have topped the first year sales target of 100,000 ounces in just under six months.
“This is a particularly important milestone for us,” said Mint Director Philip N. Diehl, “confirming the investment appeal of platinum and the Platinum Eagle.”
“We’re very pleased that in January and February we sold on average 8,800 ounces per month — during the two months that tend to be the low point for bullion. We think this bodes well for the program in its second year.”
Since the coins went on sale on September 23, 1997, the Mint has sold 96,850 ounces of Platinum American Eagle Bullion Coins, plus an additional 4,700 ounces contained in the Four Coin Platinum Bullion Set and jewelry offered exclusively in the Mint’s annual catalog, for a total of 101,550 ounces.
The Nation’s first platinum bullion coins are the first U.S. coins to bear an engraving of their purity (.9995 fine), and the one ounce bullion Platinum Eagle, with a face value of $100, is the highest denomination ever in U.S. coinage. The obverse design is Mint Sculptor/Engraver John Mercanti’s Portrait of Liberty, and the reverse design is Mint Sculptor/Engraver Thomas D. Rogers Sr.’s Soaring Bald Eagle.
As with American Eagle Gold and Silver Bullion coins, the Platinum Bullion coins are not available directly from the Mint but are sold through a network of major coin and precious metals dealers, financial institutions and brokerage houses, and other retail locations. Sales prices reflect current market prices for platinum plus a small premium. Dealer information is available at 1–800–USA–GOLD, extension 72.