Because of the economic downturn, investors are once again acquiring gold as an investment in various forms like gold bullion coins--which the American Gold Eagle is a type of. Amidst the financial panic, the demand for bullion has doubled since the last year as more individuals seek a secure form of investment. While the panic has receded a bit, people still do not trust the stock market and are wary of investing further in it, so have turned to gold as a safe way to invest in their future. Anxiety and worry are on the rise, however, because of the massive stimulus spending the Obama administration has put through.

Gold coin production has been increased by the federal agency in charge of making U.S. coins--the U.S. Mint. Gold coin production has been increased by the federal agency in charge of making U.S. coins--the U.S. Mint. In 2008, 800,000 American Eagle coins were sold--as of June, sales have already hit that point and have kept going. The U.S. Mint was forced to put some gold items on back order due to overwhelming demand that they could not keep up with. Because of the high demand (that is unprecedented) for the American Eagle Gold Bullion Coins, the United States Mint has temporarily suspended the production of uncirculated coins and United States Mint Eagle Gold Proof coins.

As of this moment, any gold blanks that are 22 karats have been earmarked for the American Eagle Gold Bullion Coin Program because the U.S. Mint must produce enough coins to satisfy public demand under Public Law 99-185. Once market demand has been met for the American Eagle Gold coins and inventories are built back up, the United States Mint will restart production of the Uncirculated Coins and the American Eagle Gold Proof. After careful consideration they have also decided to cease manufacturing smaller sized American Eagle Gold Uncirculated Coins.

As of this moment, the demand for gold products and investment opportunities is still very high. Interest in gold is predicted to remain strong throughout the year, in fact as of the first quarter it is 50% higher than it has ever been during this decade.