The 1991 1/4 oz American Gold Eagle BU (MCMXCI) is part of the highly respected American Gold Eagle bullion series, first introduced by the United States Mint in 1986. These coins are among the most widely recognized gold bullion coins worldwide due to their trusted gold content and classic American design.
Each coin contains 1/4 troy ounce of .9167 fine gold (22-karat) and carries a $10 face value, backed by the U.S. government for its weight and purity. The coin’s alloy of gold, copper, and silver enhances durability while preserving the full gold content.
The obverse features the iconic Lady Liberty design by Augustus Saint-Gaudens, originally created for the historic 1907 $20 Double Eagle coin. Liberty strides forward holding a torch and olive branch while the rising sun appears behind her. On early American Gold Eagles, including this issue, the date is displayed in Roman numerals “MCMXCI”, representing the year 1991.
The reverse showcases the classic family of eagles design by Miley Busiek, depicting a male eagle carrying an olive branch flying toward a nest where a female eagle protects her hatchlings. This powerful imagery symbolizes strength, unity, and American heritage.
Struck in Brilliant Uncirculated (BU) condition, the coin has never been circulated and retains its original mint luster and sharp design details.
With its historic Roman numeral date, fractional gold size, and iconic American design, the 1991 1/4 oz American Gold Eagle BU (MCMXCI) is a distinctive addition to modern U.S. gold coin collections and precious-metal investment portfolios.
