The House of Representatives authorized the production of Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle coins made in palladium. The authorization came from the act entitled H.R. 5614, which is meant to: "Authorize the production in palladium of Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle coins as ultra-high relief numismatic coins and bullion investment coins in order to provide affordable opportunities for investments in precious metals, and for other purposes."

It is worth mentioning that palladium represents a precious metal that has a silver-white color. In the Periodic Table of Elements palladium is situated above platinum and to the left of silver. By and large the value of palladium is half the value of gold. The pattern used for the palladium coins is taken from the 1907 ultra-high relief Augustus Saint-Gaudens $20 Double Eagle. The latter is considered to be one of the most beautiful gold coins ever minted in the United States.

The U.S. Treasury authorized the minting of a one-ounce gold type of Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle coin in 2009. There were no disputes with the public regarding the passage of the bill, which occurred with a full support of both parties. The voting by roll call for the act included the participation of 225 Democrats and 188 Republicans, with only 18 members refusing to vote. The decision came short and unanimous.

It's worth noting that prior to becoming law the bill must pass through the Senate and afterwards signed by the President. A Senate bill alike, entitled S. 2924, was passed by Sen. Max Baucus and Sen. Jon Tester. This bill is the usual starting point for the new bills. It focused on the Senate Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs.

It is likely that a lot of collectors will consider the prospect for the new palladium coins exciting. Undoubtedly Montana's residents and legislators will be the proudest ones since according to the House of Representatives and Senate bills, the palladium used for minting Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle coins needs to be extracted from the countries natural deposits and Montana is the state with the only palladium mine in the country (Stillwater Mining Company).