Numismatic Gold Coin Prices Likely to Increase

Based on recent gold market prices, it seems likely that the US Mint will increase the prices for most numismatic gold products tomorrow.

Under the policy adopted in early 2009, the price of gold and platinum products may be adjusted as often as weekly based on changes in the price of the metals. The weekly average is calculated based on the London Fix prices from the prior Thursday AM to the current Wednesday AM. If this average falls into a different pricing tier (established at $50 increments for gold), then product prices are adjusted accordingly. As an additional rquirement, the Wednesday PM price must agree directionally with the change.

Since the weekly average price of gold is already well within the higher $1,350 to $1,399.99 price range, probably the only thing that could prevent a price increase would be if the Wednesday PM Fix price is below $1,350, which would overrule any adjustment.

Price changes have usually been made effective around mid morning on Wednesdays, although the exact timing has varied.

The available First Spouse Gold Coins would have their prices increase from $829 to $854 for proofs and from $816 to $841 for uncirculated coins. The 2010 Proof Gold Buffalo would have its price increased from $1,610 to $1,660.

The currently available 2011 Army Commemorative $5 Gold Coins would not have their prices adjusted. Commemorative gold coins are not covered under the policy, so the existing prices would remain in effect. Presumably, if the US Mint wants to adjust prices for these coins, they would need to suspend sales and publish new prices in the Federal Register, per the older policy.

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