IRS delivers stunning reversal on the American Gold Eagle / Income Tax Question

If I received a $50 American Gold Eagle (legal tender) as a wage, would I need to claim $50 on my tax return or the market value? Today, the $50 American Gold Eagle was selling for approximately $980.00.

The IRS wrote:

You will only be reporting your wages of $50. The American Gold Eagle is now your capital asset (collectible), and any gain or loss on the coin will not be reported as income or loss until you dispose of the coin. &rarr