United States Mint
The United States Mint is an important part of American history. It contributed to forming the basis of the currency system, and with this to the economic ascent of the United States of America. Today, the United States Mint is one of the mints with the largest programme worldwide. Both its collectors' and bullion coins are in demand worldwide thanks to their excellent minting quality and fancy design.
The formation of a nation - and a mint
Three years after the formation of the United States, the United States Mint was opened in 1792. The US Mint was the first federal building of the newly formed United States, which was built upon a constitutional resolution. Since 1873 the United States Mint was part of the Finance Ministry of the USA. The US Mint has four sites (Philadelphia, Denver, San Francisco and West Point),and it is the only institution in the USA with the right to produce circulatory coins and bullion coins. The U.S. Bullion Depository - better known under the name of its location, Fort Knox - is also under the control of the United States Mint. The United States Mint Police, an exclusive police authority for the US Mint, guards its facilities.
The coins of the United States Mint
The coin of the US Mint which is probably best known is the "American Eagle". The bullion coin was first minted in silver and gold in 1986. Eleven years later a platinum edition was added. Gold and platinum Eagles are available in weights of one ounce, 1/2 ounce, 1/4 ounce and 1/10 ounce, and the Silver Eagle is only available with a weight of one ounce. Nonetheless, it is one of the most popular silver bullion coins worldwide.
The proof coins of the US Mint are particularly sought after amongst collectors. Proof coins are manufactured using a special procedure, they have a deeper embossing and a brighter shine, and should be handled with particular care to ensure that they do not lose their collector's value. Coins that are preserved particularly well are called "uncirculated". Even in German-speaking areas this term is used in banks. In addition to the Eagle and the Eagle Proof, coins from the American Buffalo series are also very popular.
The Buffalo Proof forms part of every larger coin collection, and the American Buffalo is part of many depots. The high level of purity of the coins of 99.99 % contributes to this popularity.
In addition to these classic coins the US Mint offers many round blanks, medals and coins especially for the US-American market. They honour the varied nature of the USA, as well as historic personalities and events that have marked the history of the country. For more information about the offer, the history and the duties of the United States Mint please click here.