The 1988 1/2 oz American Gold Eagle Coin, denoted by the Roman numeral "MCMLXXXVIII" for the year 1988, is a prominent issue in the American Gold Eagle series, minted by the United States Mint. This coin contains 1/2 an ounce of gold and is crafted with a purity of 22 karats, or .9167 fineness. It features the renowned Saint-Gaudens design on the obverse, displaying Lady Liberty with a torch and olive branch, symbols of freedom and peace. The reverse, created by Miley Busiek, depicts a family of eagles, an emblem of American unity and familial strength. In 1988, the mintage for the 1/2 oz American Gold Eagle was approximately 159,500 coins. This production number makes the 1988 Gold Eagle a notable year for collectors and investors, appreciated for its combination of gold content, historical significance, and the artistic design characteristic of the American Gold Eagle series.