American Silver Eagle 40-Coin Set 1986-2024

The 1986-2024 40 Coin Silver Eagle Set is a prized collection among numismatists and investors. The American Silver Eagle, introduced in 1986, is the official silver bullion coin of the United States and features the iconic Walking Liberty design by Adolph A. Weinman.

Design and Specifications

• Obverse (front): The design showcases Walking Liberty, draped in the American flag, with her right hand extended and branches of laurel and oak in her left, symbolizing civil and military glory. The word "LIBERTY" arches above, and the date is inscribed below.
• Reverse (back): The reverse features a heraldic eagle behind a shield, designed by John Mercanti. The eagle grasps an olive branch in its right talon and arrows in its left, symbolizing peace and strength. The inscriptions include "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA," "1 OZ. FINE SILVER," and "ONE DOLLAR."
• Weight: 1 troy ounce (31.103 grams)
• Silver Content: 0.999 fine silver (99.9% pure)
• Diameter: 40.6 mm
• Thickness: 2.98 mm

Mint Marks and Varieties

The American Silver Eagle has been minted at various U.S. Mint facilities, with mint marks indicating the place of origin. The mint mark is located on the reverse, below the olive branch:

• Philadelphia (no mint mark): Silver Eagles produced here are often considered standard issues.
• San Francisco ('S'): Coins from this mint are known for their superior quality and are highly prized by collectors.
• West Point ('W'): The majority of Silver Eagles have been minted here since 1986, and these coins are well-regarded for their quality and craftsmanship.
• Denver ('D'): Although rare, some special issues have been minted here.

Collectible Varieties

• 'Type 1' (1986-2020): These coins feature the original reverse design by John Mercanti.
• 'Type 2' (2021-present): Introduced in mid-2021, this new reverse design by Emily Damstra features a soaring eagle with an oak branch in its talons.
• Mint Varieties: Coins from the San Francisco (S) and West Point (W) mints are particularly sought after due to their excellent craftsmanship and lower mintages.

Common Dates vs. Rare Dates

Silver Eagles from the early years (1986-1996) are generally more common and easier to find, making them more affordable for new collectors. Coins from years with higher mintages, such as the early 2000s, are also more readily available.

Rare Dates and Varieties

Some Silver Eagles are more valuable due to their lower mintages or unique characteristics. Key dates include 1996, which has the lowest mintage of any bullion Silver Eagle, and 2008-W with a reverse of 2007, known for its rarity and error. Another notable year is 2021, marking the transition from Type 1 to Type 2 designs, making both versions from this year highly collectible.

Various Grades and Values

The value of American Silver Eagles depends on their condition (grade), rarity, and mint mark. Here is a general estimate of the value based on grades for common-date coins from the Philadelphia and West Point mints:

• Brilliant Uncirculated (BU/MS): $35-50
• Mint State 69 (MS69): $50-80
• Mint State 70 (MS70): $80-150

Rare mint marks and key dates can command prices well into the hundreds or even thousands for coins in higher grades.

The 1986-2024 40 Coin Silver Eagle Set is an important collection for both enthusiasts and investors. Coins from the San Francisco (S) and West Point (W) mints, as well as key dates and transition years, are highly sought after and can command significant premiums. Common-date coins are more affordable and often sold as bullion, making them a popular choice for silver investors. The coin's value increases significantly with higher grades and more desirable mint marks.