1986 American Eagle Silver Coin

The 1986 American Eagle Silver Coin marked the introduction of the U.S. Mint's first official silver bullion coin. Since its inception, the coin has become a favorite among collectors and investors due to its iconic design and the assurance of its silver content.

Design and Specifications

• Obverse (front): Features Adolph A. Weinman's design of Walking Liberty, originally used on the half dollar coin from 1916 to 1947. Liberty strides toward the sun, draped in the American flag, with her right hand extended and branches of laurel and oak in her left.
• Reverse (back): Designed by John Mercanti, it showcases a heraldic eagle behind a shield, clutching an olive branch in its right talon and arrows in its left. Above the eagle are 13 stars representing the original colonies.
• Weight: 31.103 grams
• Silver Content: 1 troy ounce of pure silver
• Fineness: 99.9% silver (0.999 fineness)

Mint Marks and Varieties

The 1986 American Eagle Silver Coin was initially produced without a mint mark, as it was struck at the Philadelphia Mint. Over the years, other mint facilities have participated in its production, introducing mint marks that can affect the coin's value:

• Philadelphia (no mint mark): The initial 1986 release and subsequent years without a mint mark denote the coin was struck at the Philadelphia Mint.
• San Francisco ('S'): Coins with the 'S' mint mark are considered more desirable due to the lower mintage numbers compared to other facilities.
• West Point ('W'): The West Point Mint started producing these coins in later years, with 'W' mint marks becoming a point of interest for collectors.

Collectible Varieties

• 'No Mint Mark' (1986-1992): These early coins without a mint mark, primarily struck in Philadelphia, are generally more common but still hold significant value.
• 'San Francisco Mint' (1993-2000): Coins from this period with the 'S' mint mark are more sought after due to their relatively lower production numbers.
• 'West Point Mint' (2001-Present): Later years with the 'W' mint mark are popular among collectors, especially those in pristine condition.

Common Dates vs. Rare Dates

The 1986 American Eagle Silver Coin and subsequent years up to the early 1990s are generally more common. High mintage numbers make these coins more accessible to collectors and investors, often fetching prices close to their silver content value.

Rare Dates and Varieties

Coins minted in San Francisco and West Point with special mint marks can command higher premiums, especially in flawless conditions. For instance, the 1995-W American Eagle Silver Coin is one of the rarest and most valuable due to its low mintage.

Various Grades and Values

The value of the 1986 American Eagle Silver Coin and its subsequent issues depends on the condition (grade), rarity, and mint mark. Here is a general estimate of values based on grades for common-date coins:

• Good (G): $30-35
• Fine (F): $35-40
• Extremely Fine (XF): $40-50
• About Uncirculated (AU): $50-60
• Brilliant Uncirculated (BU/MS): $60-80

Rare mint marks and key dates can command prices significantly higher, particularly for coins in mint condition.

The 1986 American Eagle Silver Coin is a significant piece of modern American numismatic history. While common dates are more affordable and often traded for their silver content, coins with rare mint marks and in higher grades can fetch substantial premiums. Collectors and investors alike value these coins for their beautiful design, silver purity, and historical significance.

1986 Silver Eagle Auctions