The design on the obverse (heads) side is a close-up portrait of Lady Liberty designed by John Mercanti. It also shows the mint date and the "IN GOD WE TRUST" motto.
The reverse (tails) side of the bullion platinum American eagle coins bears the American bald eagle design of Thomas Rogers. It shows an eagle soaring above the sun. The face value and purity of the platinum bullion is also struck on the reverse side.
However, the reverse design of the proof platinum American eagle coin varies annually. Like regular proof coins, the platinum Eagle proofs have a shiny field (background) and a frosted device (the eagle design). Every year, the US Mint releases a new design of the American bald eagle illustrated in different themes.
From the year 1998 to 2002, there had been a coin program called "Vistas of Liberty" struck on American platinum eagle coins with reverse proof designs. Reverse proof coins, being the opposite of proof coins, have a dull field and a shiny device.
"The Foundations of Democracy" series was issued from 2006 to 2008 to honor the three branches of the US government.
The platinum eagle coins can be purchased at the United States Mint or in other authorized dealers. The price of each platinum eagle is based on the current spot price of platinum.