Yes, it is legal to own U.S. gold coins. Private ownership of gold was restricted under Executive Order 6102, signed in 1933 during the Great Depression, which required most citizens to turn in gold coins, bars, and certificates to the Federal Reserve.
That restriction was lifted by Congress effective January 1, 1975, restoring Americans’ right to buy, sell, and hold gold in any form, including coins, bars, and bullion.
Today, U.S. gold coins such as American Eagles and Buffalos, along with historic pre-1933 coins, can be freely owned, collected, or traded. Some numismatic coins carry added legal protections as collectibles. No permit is required for personal ownership.