Sales kicked off last Thursday, July 18, for 2013-W Proof American Platinum Eagles. Newly released figures from the United States Mint show collectors ordered 2,139 by Sunday.
That is the weakest start for the series of 99.95% pure platinum coins. Collectors have commented favorably on this year’s design (read the news article about its release), but swinging precious metals prices has inserted at least a touch of buying caution.
This year the one-ounce Platinum Eagle opened at $1,800. Last Wednesday the price bumped up $50 from what it could have been when the average for platinum moved higher to between $1,400.00 and $1,449.99 an ounce. Before then, there had been downward pressure. The price of the Platinum Eagle will not change this week with platinum firmly within the same price-setting range. And with the coin’s 15,000 mintage limit, there is no rush to buy. Collectors can patiently wait to see how platinum plays out.
Here’s a breakdown of starting sales for the platinum coins since 2009:
2009-2013 Proof Platinum Eagle Sales Debut
| Year of Issue | Debut Price | Debut Sales Period | Debut Sales | Sales / Mintages |
| 2013 Proof Platinum Eagle | $1,800 | July 18 – 21 | 2,139 | 2,139 /15,000 |
| 2012 Proof Platinum Eagle | $1,692 | Aug 9 – 13 | 2,461 | 9,661 / 15,000 |
| 2011 Proof Platinum Eagle | $2,092 | May 26 – 29 | 6,786 | 14,760 / 15,000 |
| 2010 Proof Platinum Eagle | $1,892 | Aug 12 – 15 | 8,268 | 10,000 / 10,000 |
| 2009 Proof Platinum Eagle | $1,792 | Dec 3 – 6 | 7,207 | 8,000 / 8,000 |
The 2013-W Proof American Platinum Eagle is fifth in the six-year "Preamble Series." Its reverse design features the theme "To Promote General Welfare."
It may be ordered from the U.S. Mint’s online page or by calling 1-800-872-6468.
Prices for Numismatic Gold Coins May Rise
In other coin news, there is a chance that the U.S. Mint on Wednesday will raise prices on its range of numismatic gold coins. Current prices are based on an average of gold that is within $1,250 and $1,299.99 an ounce. London fixings on Wednesday must still be considered but the average is sitting at $1,305.72 an ounce.
If Wednesday’s AM Fix for gold is above $1,254.20 and the PM Fix is at or above $1,300 an ounce, then the U.S. Mint will increase gold coin prices by $50 for every ounce of gold content. When pricing adjustments are needed, the Mint tends to carry out them at around noon ET.
Coin News Update: The U.S. Mint increased prices Wednesday for its numismatic gold coins. Platinum coin prices remained unchanged.
This coin news article will get updated with what actually happens.
