Washington, D.C. -- Treasury Sectretary Robert E. Rubin authorized the U.S. Mint to produce .9995 platinum bullion coins and approved designs for the program, the Mint announced today.

“The platinum Eagle represents a historic expansion of the Mint’s bullion coin program,” said Mint Director Philip N. Diehl. “As the first platinum coin ever issued by the United States Mint, this new coin enhances and completes the family of Eagles. Joining the silver and gold versions of the U.S. Eagle coins, the platinum Eagle will have a strong appeal to collectors and investors alike.”

The coins will feature a rendition of the Statue of Liberty by U.S. Mint Sculptor/Engraver John Mercanti on the obverse, and a soaring eagle design by U.S. Mint Sculptor/Engraver Thomas D. Rogers on the reverse.

The United States Mint plans to produce two versions of the platinum Eagle: a limited edition proof version for collectors and an uncirculated bullion version for investors. The proof platinum Eagle may be released as early as late March 1997. The date for the release of uncirculated version of the platinum coin will be announced later in the year.

Authority to produce platinum coins was enacted as part of the Omnibus Consolidated Appropriations for Fiscal Year 1997 (P.L. 104-208).