The American Gold Eagle reaches its 40th anniversary in 2026, and the United States Mint is marking the occasion with a new release. First introduced in 1986, the Gold Eagle program restored routine gold coin production at the US Mint for the first time since 1933. While these coins are not made for everyday spending, they are official US legal tender. Many buyers choose Gold Eagles as a straightforward way to add physical gold to a long-term holding plan. Right now, 2026 1/2 oz American Gold Eagle Coins in certified condition are available online at BullionMax.

Coin Highlights:

• Coin arrives in an individual protective slab!
• 40th-anniversary issue of Gold Eagles!
• Limited availability of certified coins!
• Contains 1/2 troy oz of actual gold content.
• Issued a face value of $25 (USD) by the United States.
• Bears a Grade of Mint State 69 from the Professional Coin Grading Service.
• First Strike.
• The obverse depicts Lady Liberty.
• On the reverse is the American bald eagle.

For the obverse of the 2026 1/2 oz Gold Eagle Coins, the Mint features Augustus Saint-Gaudens’ well-known Lady Liberty design, originally created for the $20 Double Eagle. Liberty is shown in full length as she walks forward, holding a torch in one hand and an olive branch in the other. Sun rays spread out behind her, the U.S. Capitol appears near the lower edge, and a ring of stars completes the layout fans have recognized for decades.

The reverse design of the 2026 American Gold Eagles showcases Jennie Norris’ updated bald eagle portrait, first used in 2020. This modern design focuses on the eagle’s head and highlights the bird’s sharp detail and strong expression in a clean, current style.

The 1/2 oz American Gold Eagle has long filled a helpful middle ground for gold buyers. It can be easier to budget for than a full 1 oz coin, while still offering a meaningful amount of gold in a single piece. Mintages for this size have often been lower than the 1 oz version but higher than the smallest fractional options, which reflects steady interest from both investors and collectors who like its in-between weight.

These 2026 1/2 oz American Gold Eagle Coins are offered in near-perfect condition. MS69 examples show full mint luster with only up to two small imperfections. Any marks are tiny—such as light contact ticks or faint hairlines—and must be outside the main focal areas of the design. First Strike coins are those submitted to PCGS within 30 days of the mint’s initial release.

BullionMax customer service is available at 800-729-3202 to help you with 1/2 ounce gold. You can also reach us through our web chat or by email.