Silver Eagle Coin: History, Value & Facts
Silver Eagle coins are a popular form of investment among collectors and investors alike. But what exactly is a Silver Eagle coin? Well, for starters, it’s the official silver bullion coin of the United States Mint. It was first issued in 1986 and has been minted yearly since then. But that’s just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to these coins. Here’s a deeper dive into their history, value, and facts.
History and Design
The design of the Silver Eagle coin is based on Adolph A. Weinman Walking Liberty Half Dollar, originally in production from 1916-1947. The obverse (or front) side of the coin features Lady Liberty draped in an American flag. She’s carrying branches of laurel and oak in her arm to symbolize civil and military glory.
On its reverse (or back) side lies a heraldic eagle with 13 stars. The stars represent the original colonies above its head. These features remain consistent across all coins regardless of their minting year or grade.
Value and Grading System
Silver Eagles are not only collectible pieces but also valuable investments. You’ll typically buy and sell them based on their condition or “grade.” The most common grading system is called “70 points”. It indicates the coin is in perfect condition with no signs of wear or tear.
Other grades run along a scale from 60-69 points, indicating varying degrees of wear or damage to the coin’s surface. The higher your coin’s grade, the more valuable it will be as an investment piece.
Fun Facts about Silver Eagles
Silver Eagles come in many sizes, ranging from 1 oz up to 5 oz for certain years. They have been minted at several locations throughout their 35-year history, including Philadelphia (1986 – 1998) and West Point (1986 – present).
With more than 500 million Silver Eagles minted since its release, it is one of the most prolific coins ever produced. And it has become a favorite of both investors and collectors worldwide. The coins also feature a special burnished finish if you purchase them directly from the US Mint.
One particular 2017 edition commemorates President Trump’s first year in office and features his signature on its obverse side—a true collector’s item for some.
Silver Eagles contain one troy ounce of .999 fine silver, the highest content possible on a U.S. coin. They also have a face value of $1 and are backed by the full faith and credit of the United States government. That makes them valuable as collectibles and useful for trade or investment purposes.
Get Yourself a Silver Eagle Coin (or two)
Silver Eagle coins are an excellent way to invest your money while still having fun collecting them. Their long history makes them especially sought after by collectors. After all, their beautiful designs and historical relevance are just out of this world. Whether you’re looking for a quick money-maker or something to add to your collection, investing in Silver Eagles may be right.
With so many sizes, dates, finishes, and unique editions available, everyone can have a piece of the cake regarding these iconic coins. Get a silver eagle coin today to add to your valuable collection.
