- Literal: “American Eagle 1/4 ounce of gold 2026” - Common coin name: “2026 American Gold Eagle 1/4 oz”
American Gold Eagle 1/4 oz 2026 is a fractional gold bullion coin of the United States Mint, containing 1/4 troy ounce of gold in 916.7 fineness (22 karat). The coin’s total mass is about 8.48 g, of which 7.78 g is pure gold; the remainder of the alloy is silver and copper, which increase hardness and wear resistance. The coin’s face value is 10 U.S. dollars, with a diameter of about 22 mm and a thickness of about 1.83 mm. These specifications are common to the 1/4 oz variant of the American Gold Eagle series.
The 2026 issue marks the 40th anniversary of the American Gold Eagle program, inaugurated in 1986, and coincides with the 250th anniversary of the United States. The coin is struck to bullion (Brilliant Uncirculated) standard and is legal tender of the USA, though its investment value derives primarily from its gold content. The 1/4‑ounce denomination combines a relatively low unit outlay with the full recognizability of the series, facilitating flexible management of a precious‑metals portfolio. The coin’s design and specifications follow the “Type 2” format in effect since 2021.
Obverse presents the classic allegory of Liberty (Lady Liberty) after the design by Augustus Saint‑Gaudens, known from the historic Double Eagle. The figure strides against the rays of the rising sun, holding a torch in her right hand and an olive branch in her left, symbolizing peace. At the bottom appears a panorama of the Capitol and a stylized rocky landscape, and along the rim are stars corresponding to the states of the Union. Above the figure is the inscription “LIBERTY,” while on the right, in the lower part of the field, the year of issue “2026” is placed.
Reverse depicts the image of the American bald eagle introduced in 2021 by Jennie Norris, shown in a large close‑up profile. Emphasis is placed on the plumage details and the bird’s piercing gaze, reinforcing the symbolism of strength and vigilance. Around the rim are the inscriptions “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” “E PLURIBUS UNUM,” and “IN GOD WE TRUST.” At the bottom of the reverse are the face value “10 DOLLARS” and the metal specifications “1/4 OZ. FINE GOLD.” The coin’s edge is reeded, consistent with the security standard and styling of the American Gold Eagle series.