The United States Mint has set the release date and prices for the 2008 series of American Eagle Platinum Proof coins that are the final design in the three-year series entitled, “The Foundations of American Democracy.” This year’s collector proof coins are available on Monday, May 5, 2008 and feature a Judicial Branch design.
The limited mintage coins will be available in four sizes with the following weights: One-ounce, one-half ounce, one-quarter ounce, one-tenth ounce. There is also a four-coin set containing one coin in each denomination. The one ounce proof coin is priced at $2,299.95.
The Foundation of American Democracy designs
2006 began the new platinum three-year coin series entitled “The Foundation of American Democracy,” which celebrates the branches of government with a new reverse or tails design every year.
2006: The “Legislative Muse” design was featured
According the the U.S. Mint:
The “Legislative Muse,” designed by United States Mint Artistic Infusion Program Master Designer Joel Iskowitz, is inspired by, and based upon, the marble statue entitled “The Car of History” by Carlo Franzoni.
The figure of Clio, the Muse of History, combined with studio drawings from life, attempts to reincarnate this allegorical figure into the Muse, or Scribe, of the Legislative Branch of government.
The composition includes eagles perched atop Corinthian columns, representing the chambers of the Senate and the House of Representatives. United States Mint Sculptor-Engraver Don Everhart executed the design.
2007: The “Executive Branch” was the design featured
This was the second in the series of "The Foundation of American Democracy designs". The Mint’s description of the coin design:
Designed by United States Mint Artistic Infusion Program Master Designer Thomas Cleveland and engraved by United States Mint Sculptor-Engraver Phebe Hemphill, the reverse design depicts a bald eagle with its wings spread wide to represent freedom with a shield at the ready to enforce the laws that guarantee those freedoms.
2008: The “Judicial Branch” is the design featured
Designed by United States Mint Artistic Infusion Program Master Designer Joel Iskowitz and engraved by United States Mint Sculptor-Engraver Charles L. Vickers, the design features Lady Justice, a classic symbol dating back to Greek and Roman times.
In her right hand, the scales are suspended from one finger, representing the delicate balance of the law. In the other hand she holds the sword, signifying the power that is held by those making the decision.
The bald eagle, our Nation’s symbol of power, courage and freedom, is featured watching over our firm foundation of democracy.
Obverse design
The obverse or heads side features Lady Liberty, symbolizing vigilance and faithfulness to duty. It was designed and engraved by United States Mint Sculptor-Engraver John Mercanti.
The coins bear the “W” mint mark indicated they were minted at the United States Mint facility located in West Point.
2008 American Eagle Platinum proof prices and ordering
The following table lists the coin prices by denomination:
|
Coin Denomination
|
Price
|
Max Mintage
|
Product Limit
|
| One-ounce |
$2,299.95
|
16,000
|
6,000
|
| One-half ounce |
$1,174.95
|
15,000
|
5,000
|
| One-quarter ounce |
$609.95
|
15,000
|
5,000
|
| One-tenth ounce |
$269.95
|
20,000
|
10,000
|
| Four-coin set |
$4,119.95
|
N/A
|
10,000
|
(London Fix platinum on May 1, 2008 was priced at $1,886 per ounce.)
The United States Mint accepts orders for American Eagle Platinum proof coins at 12:00 noon (ET) on May 5, 2008 and online through their secure page:
Orders may also be placed via the Mint’s toll-free number, 1-800-USA-MINT (872-6468). Hearing and speech-impaired customers may order by calling 1-888-321-MINT (6468).
