Welcome back as we continue our series on numismatics, a comprehensive introduction to coin collecting. In this sixth installment, we’ll take an in-depth look at two very popular categories of United States silver coins—American Silver Eagle bullion releases and commemorative issues.
American Silver Eagles: Iconic One Ounce Bullion from the U.S. Mint
Arguably the most widely collected modern bullion coin, American Silver Eagle one ounce releases from the United States Mint generate great excitement among silver investors and stackers. Let’s explore the intricacies and background of these iconic pieces.
Congress authorized the Mint to produce Silver Eagle bullion coins in 1985 after the passage of the Liberty Coin Act. The legislation aimed to provide reliable silver bullion coin options for the public amid surging precious metals interest.
The inaugural 1986-dated Silver Eagles feature Adolph A. Weinman’s classic Walking Liberty design. This iconic depiction of Lady Liberty from the 1916-1947 half dollar was a fitting choice to represent freedom. The reverse displays John Mercanti’s stunning heraldic eagle design, with the regal bird portrayed in a dramatic pose clutching an olive branch.
American Silver Eagles contain one troy ounce of 99.93% pure silver and maintain a nominal face value of $1. However, their intrinsic silver value rises and falls in line with prevailing precious metals spot prices. This fluctuating bullion value gives Silver Eagles an appeal to investors seeking exposure to the silver market.
While production has fluctuated, the U.S. Mint has struck American Silver Eagle bullion coins every year since 1986. Annual mintages previously reached peaks of around 40 million before dropping to half that level in recent years as premiums rose amid bullion demand. Limited special versions like reverse proof and “burnished” uncirculated editions also bring excitement.
Many collectors assemble complete date and mintmark sets of Silver Eagles in pristine condition. Others seek limited runs like the 1995-W proof striking at West Point. With over 600 million issued since inception, Silver Eagles have cemented their status as the world’s most widely collected and traded one ounce silver bullion coin.
United States Commemorative Coins: Honoring History in Metal
While American Silver Eagles provide investors and collectors an affordable conduit to owning .999 fine silver, U.S. commemorative coins offer something unique—the chance to hold history, culture, and values in your hands through intricately crafted works of art. Let’s delve into the rich past, design aesthetics, and collecting appeal of classic American commemoratives.
Unlike circulating coinage designed for commerce, commemoratives are limited edition numismatic releases authorized by Congress to honor notable institutions, events, locations and individuals. They showcase a more artistic side of coin production compared to common pocket change.
While the origins trace back to the 19th century, early commemoratives were somewhat sporadic until the 1930s, when greater consistency and quality emerged. Issuance then halted in the mid-1950s before restarting again in the early 1980s through today. Per congressional decree, subjects must be deemed of substantial national interest and possess widespread appeal.
Clad and 90% silver compositions replaced precious metal content in 1982 to make commemoratives affordable for average collectors. However, starting in 1986, gold coins and special anniversary editions sometimes feature .999% silver or even gold, reintroducing precious metal value.
Maximum authorized mintages typically range anywhere from a few hundred thousand down to just a couple thousand coins. Combined with strong demand from theme-based collectors, such scarcity leads to quick sellouts and makes many issues immediately valuable.
At CV Coins & Collectibles, we carry a vast selection of Silver Eagles across all dates and mint variants, along with a wide variety of classic and modern commemoratives. Whether you’re just starting your collection or looking for elusive rarities, we can help you find the right U.S. silver coins to fit your budget and interests. Browse our inventory online or stop by our showroom in Chula Vista today to explore the possibilities.
Check out the other parts in this series: