From the Mint News blog:
Today, the US Mint published notification of a new pricing policy for Gold and Platinum Numismatic products. This pricing policy will apply to collectible gold and platinum products that the US Mint sells directly to collectors. The new policy is drastic and much needed change that provides a greater level of predictability and transparency for the US Mint's customers.
The move seems to be in response to the incredibly volatile precious metals prices experienced during 2008. During the course of 2008, platinum was up more than 48% at its peak and down more than 50% at its low. Gold was up over 21% at its peak and down over 14% at its low. Amidst these fluctuations, the US Mint raised prices for platinum products once, suspend sales twice, and lowered prices twice. Gold products were available for sale at very high premiums for most of the year before being briefly suspended and resumed with lowered towards the end of the year.
The US Mint's pricing policy will allow them to adjust the prices of products on a weekly basis, when the average price of gold and platinum cross certain thresholds. The new pricing methodology will become effective January 12, 2009.
The notification also provides collectors with the price for the 2009 Ultra High Relief Gold Double Eagle. Provided the average price of gold remains between $850.00 - $899.99, the price will be $1,239.00.
See complete story here.
http://mintnewsblog.blogspot.com/200...ng-policy.html 
