Coin collectors have always been interested in rare coins. Some collect for history while others see these beautiful coins as artwork. Yet, others have turned to collecting rare coins for profits. The economy is indeed in the dumpster. The nightly news tells us Europe is on the brink of recession and Greece could still default.

France and other Euro Zone countries have just seen their credit ratings slashed, as has the fund that is poised to bail out Greece. This has caused the stock market to become almost too unpredictable to invest in. Many financiers have run for the protection of gold bullion coins such as the American Buffalo 24 karat gold bullion coin. Gold is indeed the traditional hedge against risky stocks and inflation. We see high prices everyday at the grocery store and the gas pump and there is no end in sight.

Yet, rare coins offer a very sound investment. Rare gold coins like gold bullion coins offer worth based on gold content and gold's spot price, currently around $1600 per ounce. Yet, rare coins offer additional worth based on how rare the coin is, coin grade, and collector interest. Some rare coins sell at coin auctions for thousands of dollars, and more. This is considerably more than the spot price of gold.

In 2009 the Us Mint struck an ultra high relief version of the Double Eagle $20 gold piece. The coin is a modern version of the 2007 Double Eagle. It is 24 karat gold and is legal tender. The 24 karat gold unit is better able to withstand the high relief minting process than 22 karat gold. Modern technology has allowed for the high relief minting which is what the 1907 Double Eagle tried to accomplish. Eighteen of the coins were given proof status.

Some design changes were made, like the flag now shows 50 stars, and the words In God We Trust are displayed on the reverse side of the coin as mandated by law. These two changes were not present on the original 1907 coin. The 2009 Double Eagle is a beautiful coin to collect, or invest in.

In closing, the debt situation in Europe has made the stock market almost too unpredictable to invest in. Many have turned to gold bullion coins for safe haven and investment. Yet, rare coins offer a great way to gain substantial profit. All investors should take a good look at the lucrative world of rare coins.