The 1988 1/4 oz American Gold Eagle BU (MCMLXXXVIII) is part of the renowned American Gold Eagle bullion series, introduced by the United States Mint in 1986. These coins are among the most widely recognized gold bullion coins worldwide and are valued for their government-guaranteed gold content and timeless American design.
Each coin contains 1/4 troy ounce of .9167 fine gold (22-karat) and carries a $10 face value, guaranteed by the U.S. government for its weight and purity. The coin’s alloy of gold, copper, and silver enhances durability while maintaining 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. Early American Gold Eagles display the date in Roman numerals, and this coin shows “MCMLXXXVIII,” representing the year 1988.
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 1988 1/4 oz American Gold Eagle BU (MCMLXXXVIII) is a distinctive addition to modern U.S. gold coin collections and precious-metal investment portfolios.
