If you can accept this theory, it is for the same reason the US Dollar is the reserve currency of the world. The US Mint commands a premium because, unlike smaller countries, weaker (militarily) countries, countries that have undergone inflation and revolution and loss of sovereignty, the USA is known for being a leader. Leaders (kings) make standards. Standards are accepted by others, even others in other countries. Who would dare provoke the wrath of the USA by counterfeiting their bullion?
Consider that during Colonial times, it was the Spanish doubloon (pieces of eight) that was the standard. Then the British pound sterling (silver), as "the sun never set on the Empire". Now it is the USD. In the next 100 years, could it be a crypto-currency? Or back to gold and silver?
(And yes, some very good counterfeits of gold and silver bullion US coins have been coming out of China.)
That makes sense. This is the main reason why I would hesitate buying the maple leaf over the eagle. But damn, there is actually more gold in the maple leaf so it's hard to make a choice between the two.
you're wrong. both contain the same amount of gold.
Yep. You are correct. My mistake.
Just buy both! Problem solved