Description
Any legal tender gold coins minted in the United States before the year 1933 is referred in numismatics as Pre-1933 gold. This category includes denominations such as the $1 Gold Dollar, the $2.50 Gold Quarter Eagle, the $5 Gold Half Eagle, and the $10 Gold Double Eagle. These coins hold historical significance, because they were in circulation prior to 1933 when the US abandoned circulating gold coinage in favor of the move towards fiat currency.
The value of pre-1933 US gold coins is determined by factors such as the coin’s gold content, condition, and rarity. These coins showcase different designs, including the Indian Princess, Liberty Head, and the iconic Saint-Gaudens design featured on the $20 Gold Double Eagle. The most popular gold coin denominations are nominally worth as low as $1 and as high as $20,
With 1933 being such a pivotal year in the history of US gold, pre-1933 gold has great historical significance as well as value, though the value of these gold coins can vary. In many cases, these coins can be purchased pretty close to their melt value, calculated by multiplying the actual gold weight by the current price of gold. Graded or collectible coins may command higher premiums, especially those in uncirculated condition. Factors like rarity, condition, and market availability influence the prices of these historic gold coins, but a professional will be able to best tell you the value of any you may be in possession of or looking to purchase.