For both seasoned collectors and curious first-time buyers, pre-1933 U.S. gold coins offer a unique and rewarding entry point into the world of numismatics. These coins are more than just pieces of gold—they’re historical artifacts, once used in everyday American commerce, now preserved as tangible relics of a bygone era.
At DEI Gold and Silver Coins, we proudly offer a carefully curated selection of pre-1933 U.S. gold coins that appeal to investors, collectors, and history buffs alike. If you’re looking to own a piece of authentic American history with lasting value, read on.
Why 1933 Is the Cutoff Year
In 1933, during the depths of the Great Depression, President Franklin D. Roosevelt issued Executive Order 6102, effectively outlawing private ownership of most gold coins, bullion, and certificates. The goal? To stop hoarding and stabilize the economy.
As a result, the U.S. government recalled and melted down millions of gold coins that had been in circulation for decades. But not all were surrendered. Many coins remained in private hands, tucked away in safes, hidden in collections, or stored overseas.
Today, those surviving coins—minted before 1933—are scarce, valuable, and deeply collectible.
The Allure of Pre-1933 Gold Coins
Why do collectors gravitate toward these coins? Several compelling reasons:
1. Historic Significance
Pre-1933 coins were struck during critical moments in U.S. history: the Civil War, Reconstruction, the Gilded Age, and the Roaring Twenties. Each coin is a time capsule from a specific era of American growth and transformation.
2. Artistry and Design
These coins were crafted by some of the most renowned engravers in U.S. Mint history, including Augustus Saint-Gaudens and Christian Gobrecht. The $20 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle is often hailed as the most beautiful coin ever minted.
3. Gold Content and Intrinsic Value
Most pre-1933 coins are 90% pure gold, with the remainder in copper to provide durability. The intrinsic metal value makes them attractive to both collectors and investors.
4. Rarity and Scarcity
Because of the government’s mass melting, many denominations and years are now rare. Low mintage numbers or high survival rates impact their numismatic value well beyond their weight in gold.
Popular Coins You Can Find at DEI Gold and Silver Coins
We offer a wide range of pre-1933 coins in various grades and price points. Here are some of the most popular:
• $20 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle (1907–1933)
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.9675 oz of gold
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Classic image of Lady Liberty striding forward with a torch and olive branch
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Highly prized for both beauty and bullion content
• $10 Indian Head Eagle (1907–1933)
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Features a Native American headdress—a bold departure from classical designs
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Popular among collectors for its unique look
• $5 Liberty Head Half Eagle (1839–1908)
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Commonly used in day-to-day commerce before 1900
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A great coin for beginner collectors due to affordability
• $2.50 Quarter Eagle
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Smallest of the pre-1933 gold coins
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Ideal for gifting or starting a small collection
All coins are graded and authenticated by NGC or PCGS—so you can buy with full confidence.
How to Start or Expand Your Collection
At DEI Gold and Silver Coins, we help both newcomers and seasoned collectors make informed choices. Here’s how you can start building your collection:
1. Set a Budget
You don’t need thousands of dollars to start. There are affordable pre-1933 coins available from under $300, depending on grade and denomination.
2. Choose a Focus
Some collectors prefer:
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A specific denomination (e.g., all $5 Half Eagles)
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A particular mint mark (Philadelphia, Denver, San Francisco)
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A design series (Liberty Head vs. Indian Head)
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Or a full year set
3. Buy for Quality, Not Quantity
When it comes to numismatics, condition matters. A higher-grade coin (e.g., MS63 vs. AU58) will hold more collector value in the long run—even if it costs a bit more.
4. Work with a Trusted Dealer
Our team at DEI will:
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Help you understand grading
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Offer coins with verified authenticity
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Provide guidance on market trends
We don’t just sell coins—we help build collections with lasting legacy.
Benefits of Collecting Pre-1933 Coins
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Tangible history: You own a piece of real U.S. history.
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Long-term appreciation: Scarce coins tend to rise in value over time.
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Heirloom potential: These coins are ideal for passing down to future generations.
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Portfolio diversification: They combine historical and metal value in one asset.
Why Choose DEI Gold and Silver Coins?
At DEI, we’re more than just a precious metals dealer—we’re enthusiasts, historians, and educators. Our clients trust us because:
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We provide transparent pricing
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All coins are certified and accurately described
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Our customer service is personal and responsive
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We ship safely and securely nationwide
Whether you’re looking for your first collectible coin or the missing piece to complete your set, DEI Gold and Silver Coins is your trusted source.
Ready to Add a Piece of History to Your Collection?
Explore our current inventory of pre-1933 U.S. gold coins and experience the thrill of owning a piece of America’s past.