Eagle coins were issued for circulation from 1796 until 1933 when gold coins circulation was halted. Mint of gold eagle bullion coins was authorized by Congress in 1986.
Gold Eagle Coin Prices
When buying gold coins you should always check current gold spot price to get an idea about value of gold coin. Keep in mind that modern gold bullion coins (such as american gold eagle) priced close to a gold spot price, but pre-1933 gold eagles have added premium as collectible coins.