The American Gold Eagle and Canadian Gold Maple Leaf are the two most popular gold bullion coins in North America. Both are excellent choices, but they have meaningful differences. Here's a detailed comparison to help you decide.
Quick Comparison
| Specification | American Gold Eagle | Canadian Maple Leaf |
|---|---|---|
| Mint | US Mint | Royal Canadian Mint |
| First Minted | 1986 | 1979 |
| Purity | 91.67% (22K) | 99.99% (24K) |
| Gold Content (1 oz) | 1.0 troy oz | 1.0 troy oz |
| Total Weight (1 oz) | 1.0909 oz (33.93g) | 1.0 oz (31.1g) |
| Alloy | Silver + Copper | Pure Gold |
| Face Value | $50 USD | $50 CAD |
| Typical Premium | 4.5-6% | 3.5-5% |
| IRA Eligible | Yes | Yes |
| Sizes Available | 1, 1/2, 1/4, 1/10 oz | 1, 1/2, 1/4, 1/10, 1/20 oz |
Purity: 22K vs 24K Gold
The most significant difference is purity. The Maple Leaf is 99.99% pure gold (24 karat), while the Eagle is 91.67% gold (22 karat) alloyed with silver and copper.
Important: Both coins contain exactly 1 troy ounce of pure gold. The Eagle just weighs more total because of the alloy. You get the same gold content either way.
22K Gold (Eagle)
- • More scratch and dent resistant
- • Warmer, slightly orange color
- • Historically preferred in US/UK
- • "Harder" feel
24K Gold (Maple)
- • Softer, more prone to scratches
- • Brighter, yellower color
- • Preferred in Asia/Middle East
- • "Pure" gold appeal
Premiums
Maple Leafs typically carry lower premiums than Eagles—usually 0.5-1% less. Over time, this adds up.
Example at $4,938.158 Spot
Recognition and Liquidity
Both coins are highly recognizable and liquid worldwide. However:
- In the US: Eagles have a slight edge. They're more familiar to American buyers and may fetch marginally better prices from local coin shops.
- Internationally: Maple Leafs are equally or more recognized. The 24K purity is preferred in Asian markets.
- Resale: Both sell easily anywhere. You won't have trouble liquidating either coin.
Security Features
Canadian Maple Leaf
The Royal Canadian Mint has pioneered anti-counterfeiting technology:
- Bullion DNA: Micro-engraved maple leaf with digital verification
- Radial lines: Precise machined lines that catch light
- MintShield: Surface treatment to prevent "milk spots" (white marks)
American Gold Eagle
The US Mint relies more on the coin's iconic design and hard-to-replicate details:
- Detailed Augustus Saint-Gaudens design (Lady Liberty)
- Reeded edge (ridged perimeter)
- Consistent weight and dimensions
Verdict: Maple Leafs have superior anti-counterfeiting features. If counterfeit protection is a priority, the Maple's technology is ahead.
The "Milk Spot" Issue
Older Maple Leafs (pre-2018) were notorious for developing white "milk spots"—a manufacturing defect that left cloudy marks on the coin surface. While purely cosmetic, it bothered collectors.
The Royal Canadian Mint introduced "MintShield" technology in 2018, which largely solved this problem. Newer Maples rarely have issues.
IRA Eligibility
Both coins are approved for inclusion in a Gold IRA. There's no difference here—choose either for your retirement account.
Which Should You Buy?
Choose the Gold Eagle If:
- • You prefer American-made products
- • You plan to sell primarily in the US
- • You like the classic, historic design
- • You want slightly more durable coins
- • The premium difference doesn't matter to you
Choose the Maple Leaf If:
- • You want the lowest premiums
- • You prefer 24K pure gold
- • You value advanced security features
- • You may sell internationally
- • You're buying in quantity (savings add up)
Our Recommendation
For pure investment purposes (maximizing gold per dollar), the Maple Leaf wins due to lower premiums. The premium savings of $50-100+ per coin compounds over time.
If you're American and plan to sell locally, or you simply prefer the Eagle's design and "Made in USA" status, the Gold Eagle is an excellent choice. The premium difference isn't huge, and both are tier-1 bullion coins.
Many investors own both—it's good diversification to have coins from different mints.
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