American Silver Eagle Proof Coin

The American Silver Eagle is a highly regarded silver bullion coin first struck by the United States Mint in 1986. Known for its beautiful design and high silver content, the coin has become a staple for collectors and investors seeking a reliable store of value and an attractive piece of American numismatic artistry.

Design and Specifications

• Obverse (front): Features Adolph A. Weinman's celebrated Walking Liberty design, which originally appeared on the half-dollar from 1916 to 1947. Liberty is depicted striding toward the sunrise, draped in the American flag, with her right hand extended and branches of laurel and oak in her left.
• Reverse (back): The original reverse, used until 2021, featured a heraldic eagle with a shield, designed by John Mercanti. In 2021, the reverse was updated to display an eagle in flight, carrying an oak branch, designed by Emily Damstra.
• Weight: 31.103 grams
• Silver Content: 1 troy ounce of pure silver
• Fineness: 99.9% silver (0.999 fineness)

Mint Marks and Varieties

American Silver Eagles are minted at different facilities, and the mint mark, when applicable, is found on the reverse of the coin:

• Philadelphia (no mint mark): Although these coins typically lack a mint mark, some special issues may carry it.
• San Francisco ('S'): Known for producing proof and special issues but also some bullion coins.
• West Point ('W'): Predominantly responsible for the production of bullion and proof Silver Eagles.

Collectible Varieties

• 1986: The inaugural year of the American Silver Eagle, making it particularly appealing to collectors.
• 2008-W: A collectible due to its unique mint mark and limited production.
• 2013-S and 2013-W: Special issues from San Francisco and West Point, known for their limited mintage.

Common Dates vs. Rare Dates

Common-date Silver Eagles are generally those with large mintages, making them readily available in the market. Such coins are often sold at or just above their intrinsic silver value, serving as a popular choice for silver investors.

Rare Dates and Varieties

Some American Silver Eagles are considered rare due to their limited mintage or special characteristics. For instance, the 1995-W Proof Silver Eagle, with its exceptionally low mintage, is highly coveted among collectors. Similarly, the 2006 Reverse Proof and the 2011-S Burnished Silver Eagles are admired for their unique finishes and limited issuance.

Various Grades and Values

The value of American Silver Eagles is influenced by factors such as the coin's condition (grade), rarity, and mint mark. Here is an estimated value range for common-date coins in various grades:

• Good (G): Typically valued at or slightly above the spot price of silver.
• Fine (F): Slightly higher than the spot price, depending on demand.
• Extremely Fine (XF): Fetches a premium over the silver content.
• About Uncirculated (AU): Commands a higher premium, especially in popular years.
• Brilliant Uncirculated (BU/MS): Often valued well above the silver content, especially for key dates and mint marks.

Rare mint marks and key dates can significantly increase the coin's value, with some commanding prices well into the hundreds or even thousands of dollars, particularly in high grades or unique varieties.

The American Silver Eagle is a vital component of the U.S. bullion coin program, combining artistic design with tangible value. While common-date coins are accessible and often traded based on their silver content, rare dates and mint marks offer substantial premiums, making them desirable additions to any numismatic collection. High-grade examples are particularly sought after, providing both aesthetic appeal and investment potential.