[par4]

I would disagree with the Governmen't position. The value of the coins once sold is different from the value of the coins originally assigned them by the government.

In other words, since these coins are, and technically remain, legal tender of the United States, then they are redeemable for their face value. A $20 gold piece is, as currency, worth 20 dollars, just like a 1979 penny is worth a penny even though the copper content is worth more.

You could make a case that if they are sold for more than the value assigned that is a captial gain, but until sold they are only "worth" face value.

[Smokin' Joe]

You could make a case that if they are sold for more than the value assigned that is a captial gain, but until sold they are only "worth" face value.

I can see the confiscation ticket, ($27,000.00, in coin). If forced to hand it back, a check...for $27,000.00