In 2026, the United States Mint marks 40 years of the American Gold Eagle bullion coin program. The series first launched in 1986 and became the first long-running US gold bullion release since 1933. While these coins were not made for everyday circulation, they do carry legal tender status in the United States. Over the decades, Gold Eagles have also remained a popular choice for those who want a straightforward way to add gold to their holdings, especially when markets feel uncertain. Right now, 2026 1/2 oz American Gold Eagle Coins in certified condition are available from BullionMax.

Coin Highlights:

• Comes with a protective slab!
• 40th anniversary of the Gold Eagle Series!
• Limited availability of certified perfect coins!
• Contains 1/2 troy oz of actual gold content.
• The face value of $25 (USD) is backed by the US government.
• Graded Mint State 70 by the Numismatic Guaranty Corporation.
• First Day of Issue.
• On the obverse is Lady Liberty.
• The reverse features the American bald eagle.

The Gold Eagles transitioned to the new Jennie Norris eagle reverse design in 2021, joining the rest of the Gold Eagle lineup in the update. The revised reverse added modern styling and improved security elements, while the classic Saint-Gaudens obverse remained in place. Together, these designs keep the series familiar while reflecting a more current look.

All 2026 1/2 oz American Gold Eagle Coins offered here arrive sealed in plastic slabs with MS70 certifications. An MS70 grade indicates a coin with full original mint luster and no visible imperfections under magnification. The First Day of Issue label is given to coins that were submitted to NGC for grading within 24 hours of the mint’s official release window.

The obverse of the 2026 American Gold Eagle displays Augustus Saint-Gaudens’ famous Lady Liberty image, originally created for the $20 Double Eagle. Liberty is shown walking forward with a torch and olive branch in hand, symbolizing enlightenment and peace. Sun rays fill the background, the U.S. Capitol appears near the lower edge, and a ring of stars frames the scene along the rim.

On the reverse, the 2026 1/2 oz Gold Eagle keeps the bold bald eagle portrait introduced in 2020 and used across the series starting in 2021. Designed by Jennie Norris, the artwork shows a close-up profile of the eagle’s head with crisp detailing in the feathers and eye, giving the coin a clean, modern finish.

Please contact BullionMax if you have any questions about 1/2 oz gold. Our team is available at 800-729-3202, online using our web chat, and via our email address.