Auctions
As a continuing attestation to the ongoing interest in investing in gold and silver, the U.S. Mint recorded the “highest website traffic we have ever experienced” November 5th, 2020 as orders were placed that absorbed the limited mintages of privy-marked Proof 2020-W End of World War II 75th Anniversary American Eagle gold and silver coins.
The 1-ounce .9167 fine gold $50 coin was limited to a release of 1,945 coins at $2,600 per coin and was reported unavailable within seven minutes of the noon Eastern Standard Time sales launch. Per the U.S. Mint, "This American Eagle One Ounce Gold Proof Coin incorporates a special privy mark on its obverse to symbolize the 75th anniversary of the triumph of World War II – “V75.” The design outline of the privy mark represents the aerial view shape of the Rainbow Pool located at West Potomac Park in Washington, DC, that is now an integral part of the World War II Memorial, prompting somber reflection, appreciation, reverence, and hope for the thousands who visit each year."
The 1-ounce .999 fine silver coin was limited to a release of 75,000 coins at $83 each and also received sufficient orders to absorb the limited mintage, in approximately 90 minutes. "This American Eagle One Ounce Silver Proof Coin incorporates a special privy mark on its obverse to symbolize the 75th anniversary of the triumph of World War II – “V75.” The design outline of the privy mark represents the aerial view shape of the Rainbow Pool located at West Potomac Park in Washington, DC, that is now an integral part of the World War II Memorial, prompting somber reflection, appreciation, reverence, and hope for the thousands who visit each year."
Both issues, struck at the West Point Mint with the W Mint mark, were restricted to a household ordering limit of one of each numismatic product option.
The U.S. Mint's Official Response
U.S. Mint spokesman Michael White released the following statement issued to news outlets and Mint customers:
“The 2020 End of WWII 75th Anniversary American Eagle One Ounce Gold Proof Coin and the End of World War II 75th Anniversary American Eagle Silver Proof Coin were released for sale at noon ET on November 5,” according to the statement. “Release of these coins resulted in the highest website traffic we have ever experienced, which greatly exceeded our expected capacity. This high volume caused website instability, and customers encountered error messages and in some cases were unable to purchase their desired product. Due to extremely high demand, the American Eagle Gold Proof Coin became unavailable by 12:07 p.m. We are pleased with the initial demand, but are also in the process of evaluating the various customer concerns and system constraints and/or failures we experienced. ... We want to assure you that the United States Mint remains committed to providing the highest possible level of customer service, and regret any inconvenience or frustration this buying experience caused,” the Mint said.
Read more on the End of World War II 75th Anniversary Coins and Medal Program HERE.
