1999-W 1/10 oz American Gold Eagle MS-70 NGC (W Variety, Frost)

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In 1999, the West Point Mint produced a tenth-ounce gold coin that presents an intriguing puzzle for enthusiasts. This five-dollar piece contains exactly 0.1000 troy ounces of gold, backed by the United States government. What makes this specific issue stand out is the prominent inclusion of the "W" mint mark. Typically, this mark is reserved exclusively for the highly polished, mirrorlike surfaces of proof coins. However, the dies utilized for this particular striking did not undergo that specialized polishing process, resulting in a distinct variety with a standard finish. The obverse of the coin showcases a classic American design, adapted from the famous Gold Double Eagle by Augustus Saint-Gaudens. It features Lady Liberty walking forward, holding a glowing torch in one hand and an olive branch in the other. On the reverse, a design by Miley Busiek depicts a family of bald eagles, with a male eagle carrying an olive branch back to a nest containing a female and her young. This combination of classic and modern artistry, paired with the unusual presence of the mint mark, makes the coin a compelling subject of study.