WASHINGTON - The United States Mint will begin accepting orders for the 2008 American Eagle Platinum Proof Coins at 12:00 noon (ET) on May 5, 2008. This year’s coins feature the final design in the three-year series entitled, “The Foundations of American Democracy,” celebrating our Nation’s Judicial Branch of government.

Emblazoned on the reverse of the 2008 American Eagle Platinum Proof Coins is an allegorical image of Lady Justice, a classic symbol dating back to the Greeks and Romans. Scales, suspended from a finger of her right hand, represent the delicate balance of the law. A sword in her left hand symbolizes the power of reason, which can be wielded in either direction. The bald eagle-our Nation’s symbol of courage and freedom-watches over our firm foundation of democracy.

The coin’s reverse was sculpted by United States Mint Artistic Infusion Program Master Designer Joel Iskowitz and engraved by United States Mint Sculptor-Engraver Charles Vickers.

The obverse of the 2008 American Eagle Platinum Proof Coins-designed and engraved by United States Mint Sculptor-Engraver John Mercanti-bears an image of Lady Liberty, symbolizing vigilance and faithfulness to duty.

American Eagle Platinum Proof Coins bear the “W” mintmark denoting production at the United States Mint at West Point. Each coin is encapsulated in plastic and is accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity. Pricing and mintages of the 2008 American Eagle Platinum Proof Coins are listed below:

Note: Maximum mintages reflect the total number of individual product options and the coins included in the four-coin sets.

The United States Mint will accept orders for the 2008 American Eagle Platinum Proof Coins at its secure Web site, www.usmint.gov, or at the toll-free number, 1-800-USA-MINT (872-6468). Any order placed prior to the official on-sale date and time shall not be deemed accepted by the United States Mint and will not be honored. A shipping and handling fee of $4.95 will be added to all domestic orders. Please allow approximately two to three weeks for delivery.

Customers should submit their orders for the platinum proof coins as soon as possible, as mintages are limited. There is no household limit for these options. Additionally, the United States Mint reserves the right to limit quantities and may discontinue accepting orders at any time.

Click here to view a digital image of the 2008 American Eagle Platinum Proof Coin.

Contact: Press inquiries: Michael White (202) 354-7222
Customer Service information: (800) USA MINT (872-6468)