1 Oz. American Gold Eagle, Price Difference

The "uncirculated" version sold directly by the Mint follows a different minting process vs. the standard uncirculated bullion pieces to which you refer. The finish on the Mint-direct coin is often referred to as "burnished."

The finish is the result of using polished planchets, special handling to prevent damage to the planchets after polishing and the use of extra pressure during striking. This contrasts with the "volume production" method of minting for the bullion version of the coin.

Also, the burnished coins tend to have a more frosty or satiny finish vs. the bullion coins which tend to be more brilliant (i.e., shinier).

All of the special preparation and extra handling produce a coin with a higher quality finish. The extra handling also results in higher production costs which get passed on to collectors.

Lastly, the burnished coins features a mint mark ("W" for West Point) where the bullion coins do not.

Hope that helps!

Same as Bullion Silver Eagle vs. burnished W mintmark eagle

Same as bullion 5 ounce ATB silver vs burnished ATB

First is a pure bullion issue and the second is a numismatic issue

Fox. Technically the 5oz uncirculated isn't a pre strike burnishing of the planchet but rather is vapor blasted after the strike correct?

Awesome link. That clears up a lot of questions.

Thanks for providing it.

I will repost the link in the appropriate thread. It is kinda cool...