Platinum Ounce 2009 American Eagle, Proof, Coin from United States - detailed information

The American Platinum Eagle is the official platinum bullion coin of the United States. The coins were initially released by the United States Mint in several sizes and denominations, but in late 2008 the fractional denominations were discontinued, leaving only the one ounce. The Platinum Eagle is authorised by the United States Congress, and is backed by the United States Mint for weight, content, and purity. The Platinum Ounce is denominated with a face value of $100, but the intrinsic value of the metal is significantly higher.

After the first year of issue, there are two versions of the coin issued annually: bullion with the "definitive" soaring eagle reverse, and a proof with a different design every year.

This design is the first in a six-year program that commemorates the core concepts of American democracy by featuring the six principles of the Preamble of the United States Constitution.

This is the first year when a coin of the American Eagle range does not feature an eagle as a prominent part of the reverse design. The 2009 design depicts four faces representing the diversity of the nation, with the clothing and hair weaving together symbolising the principle, To Form a More Perfect Union. A new design element, an American Eagle “privy mark”, has been added to the reverse of the coin. The privy mark is from an original “coin punch” identified at the United States Mint at Philadelphia.

The reverse was designed by United States Mint Artistic Infusion Program Master Designer Susan Gamble and sculpted by United States Mint Sculptor-Engraver Phebe Hemphill.