If you had three U.S. coins in your pocket, including a Gold Half Eagle, Gold Eagle, and Gold Double Eagle, how much money would you have?
From circa 1795-1933, the U.S. Mint produced various gold coins that served as legal tender, and each had a “face value.” The U.S. Gold Eagle has a $10 face value, while a Double Eagle has a $20 face value, and the Half Eagle carries a $5 face value. So the total “face value” of these three would be $35.
However, it would obviously be foolish to sell these gold coins today for face value because the gold content value is considerably higher. Each of these coins is 90 percent gold, and the Gold Eagle has .48375 troy oz. of pure .9999 gold, the Double Eagle has .96750 troy oz. of gold, and the Half Eagle has .24187 oz. of gold. With gold currently trading at roughly $1,250 per troy oz., the total 1.69312 troy oz. of gold in the three would have a scrap value of approximately $1,600.
What’s it worth? Depending upon the coin, year, mint mark, and condition, the “numismatic” or coin collector value should be higher than the scrap value and often considerably higher if the coins are in “mint state” or “uncirculated” condition.
For assistance in evaluating coins, readers can call Mike Ivankovich at 215-264-4304.

Mike Ivankovich is an auctioneer, appraiser, home downsizing expert, and host of the "What's It Worth? Ask Mike the Appraiser" radio show that airs live on Friday mornings from 9 to 10 a.m. on WBCB 1490 AM in the greater Philadelphia area. It is available on the internet at www.WBCB1490.com. His show also airs in Denver, Co., on KEZW Cruisin 1430 AM on Saturdays from 3 to 4 p.m. MST and Sundays from 11 a.m. to noon MST and on the internet at www.Cruisin1430.com.
To learn more, visit www.AskMikeTheAppraiser.com.