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Independence Day does not merely represent flags and fireworks; Independence Day is rather a reminder of the ideas and ideals on which America was founded. We view July 4th as the ideal opportunity to celebrate our country and our heritage with patriotic coins that will last through history.
For collectors, precious metals and rare coins may be more than just assets. They are tangible assets valued for both their material worth and historical significance. Each design reflects the spirit of American freedom, craftsmanship, and resilience.
You might be new or a seasoned precious metals investor, and what better day than Independence Day to add some great value to your portfolio? We have selected these four wonderful coins, which represent the American spirit and history, and are ready to add some glimmer to your collection.
1. $20 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle
Often hailed as the most stunning coin in American history, the $20 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle is more than gold—it’s a symbol of America’s Golden Age. Minted from 1907 to 1933, this iconic piece was designed by legendary sculptor Augustus Saint-Gaudens at the personal request of President Theodore Roosevelt.
The obverse features Lady Liberty in flowing robes, striding forward with a torch and olive branch, set against a radiant sunburst. The reverse showcases a soaring bald eagle, representing the strength, hope, and ambition of a nation on the rise. These powerful symbols, combined with the coin’s intricate detail, make it a masterpiece of American rare coinage.
With .9675 troy ounces of gold and rich historical significance, this coin is prized by collectors and investors alike. Whether you're preserving wealth or honoring history, the Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle delivers both beauty and bullion value.
2. Lincoln Wheat Cent (Wheat Ear Reverse)
Sometimes, the most powerful symbols come in small packages. First minted in 1909 to honor Abraham Lincoln's centennial, the Lincoln Wheat Cent, also known as the Wheat Penny, became the first U.S. coin to feature a real historical figure. Its reverse design features two classic wheat stalks framing the words "ONE CENT," a tribute to America’s agricultural roots and working-class spirit.
Designed by Victor David Brenner, this coin circulated widely through the Great Depression, World War II, and America’s postwar rise, making it a pocket-sized time capsule of national resilience.
Though modest in denomination, the Wheat Cent holds tremendous value for collectors of American rare coins, especially in its original circulated condition. Whether you’re building a starter collection or preserving a piece of everyday history, this coin is a timeless reminder of progress, perseverance, and patriotism.
3. 2008 1/10 oz Gold American Buffalo
The Gold American Buffalo, first introduced in 2006, was the U.S. Mint’s first-ever .9999 fine (24-karat) gold coin, crafted to meet growing demand for pure gold bullion. The 2008 1/10 oz edition offers a more affordable way for investors and collectors to own this iconic piece of American history.
Designed after James Earle Fraser’s legendary 1913 Buffalo Nickel, the obverse showcases the dignified profile of a Native American chief—an image that honors Indigenous strength and legacy. The reverse features a striking American bison, modeled after Black Diamond, a buffalo once housed at New York’s Central Park Zoo.
Struck in brilliant uncirculated condition and backed by the U.S. government for weight and purity, this fractional coin makes an excellent entry point for gold ownership or a meaningful addition to any American bullion collection.
4. 2025 American Gold Eagle (1 oz)
The 2025 American Gold Eagle stands as a pinnacle of trust, artistry, and investment-grade purity. Struck in 22-karat gold (.9167 fineness) and backed by the U.S. government, this 1 oz coin continues its legacy as one of the most recognized and traded pieces of American bullion in the world.
On the obverse, the iconic Lady Liberty strides forward with a torch in one hand and an olive branch in the other; symbols of enlightenment and peace that echo the founding ideals of the nation. The reverse, redesigned in 2021, features a bold close-up of a bald eagle, capturing the fierce spirit of American independence and strength.
How to Care for and Store Rare Gold Coins
We’ve put together some of your most asked questions and have answered them below. Check it out!
Q: How do I prevent scratches or tarnish on gold coins?
A: Store gold coins in non-PVC containers or capsules. Gold doesn’t tarnish easily; however, it is very vulnerable to scratches. Hence, avoid loose handling or poor storage options
Q: Is it safe to handle coins without gloves?
A: Handling coins while wearing gloves is ideal; however, there are instances in which you may not have access to them. In such scenarios, handle them by the edges to avoid any fingerprint smudges or damage to the design.
Q: Do I need insurance for high-value coins?
A: Yes, especially if you have rare coins or American bullion coins. You should have them appraised and also have an understanding of whether you are under collectible coverage with your homeowner’s policy, or take up a different policy through a specialty insurer.
Honor American History with Every Ounce
This upcoming Independence Day is not just a year we are recognizing, we are also recognizing the stories, symbols, and strength that built this country. What better way than to hold rich pieces of history that have carried a legacy through decades, if not centuries?
Whether you’re a numismatic newbie or a seasoned collector, these coins join us with something far larger than ourselves: the legendary legacy of American resiliency, craftsmanship, and pride. They’re more than gold; they’re stories of revolutions, resilience, and national pride.
Take a look through our full collection of American bullion and rare coins that we hold at Pacific Precious Metals in California. If you are as passionate about stories of American history as we are, get added to the list to find out about exclusive coin releases or history market insight, and we'd love to have you along for the journey.
