American Gold Eagles Authorized by the Bullion Coin Act of 1985, American Eagle Gold Bullion Coins quickly became one of the world's leading gold bullion investment coins. Produced from American gold, American Eagles are imprinted with their gold content and legal tender face value. An American Eagle's value is based on the market price of its metal content, plus a small premium to cover minting and distribution costs. American Eagles are minted of 22 karat gold, which makes the coin harder and more resistant to scratching. They contain their stated amount of pure gold plus a small amount of alloy metal. The obverse design is inspired by what is often considered by many to be one of America's most beautiful coins: Augustus Saint-Gaudens' $20 gold piece, minted from 1907-1933. The reverse features a nest of American Eagles, symbolizing family, tradition and unity. What truly sets American Eagles apart is that they are the only bullion coins whose weight, content and purity are guaranteed by the United States Government. Investors can buy them with confidence, knowing the coins contain their stated amount of gold. In addition, American investors can include American Eagles in their Individual Retirement Accounts.