Last Updated: 08-21-2025      
##XMG120

The Bird

The bald eagle is the national bird and national symbol of the United States and appears on its seal. In the late 20th century, it was on the brink of extirpation in the contiguous United States, but measures such as banning the practice of hunting bald eagles and banning the use of the harmful pesticide DDT slowed the decline of their population.

Populations have since recovered, and the species' status was upgraded from "endangered" to "threatened" in 1995 and removed from the list altogether in 2007.

The Coin

The American Silver Eagle is the official silver bullion coin of the United States, first minted and released by the United States Mint on November 24, 1986. It was authorized by the Liberty Coin Act, passed in 1985. This coin holds significant importance for both investors and collectors due to its high purity, iconic design, and the backing of the US Government.
I. History and Authorization
##XMG122
Origins: The idea for a new silver bullion coin stemmed from the need to liquidate excess silver held by the US government in the National Defense Stockpile during the 1980s.

Liberty Coin Act of 1985: This legislation, championed by Senator James McClure, authorized the US Mint to produce silver bullion coins for the first time in American history.

First Release: The first American Silver Eagles were struck on October 29, 1986, and released to the public on November 24, 1986.

II. Design and artistry
Obverse (Heads): Features Adolph A. Weinman's "Walking Liberty" design, originally used on the 1916 half dollar, depicting Liberty draped in the American flag. Inscriptions include "LIBERTY," "IN GOD WE TRUST," and the year.

Reverse (Tails):

Type 1 (1986-2021): Features a heraldic eagle designed by John Mercanti.

Type 2 (2021-Present): Features an eagle in flight carrying an oak branch, designed by Emily Damstra. Inscriptions include "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA," "E PLURIBUS UNUM," "1 OZ. FINE SILVER," and "ONE DOLLAR".

III. Specifications
The American Silver Eagle is composed of 99.9% pure silver and weighs 1 troy ounce (31.103 grams). It has a face value of $1, a diameter of 40.6 mm, a thickness of approximately 3 mm, and a reeded edge.

IV. Minting and versions
These coins are minted at the Philadelphia, San Francisco, and West Point Mints. Bullion coins generally lack mint marks, while proof and uncirculated versions feature a P, S, or W mark. Available versions include bullion for investors, and proof, uncirculated, and burnished (since 2006) versions for collectors.

V. Significance and appeal
The American Silver Eagle is significant as an investment due to its tangibility and potential to hedge against uncertainty. Its iconic design, history, and variations also make it highly collectible. The coin is easily traded globally, and its specifications are guaranteed by the US government. Since 2021, Type 2 coins include enhanced security features on the reeded edge.

VI. Collecting and investing
Collectors may focus on year, condition, or mint mark. Bullion coins are available from authorized dealers and is influenced by its year, condition, and rarity.

Note: Although the coin has a $1 face value, its market value is typically much higher due to its silver content and appeal to collectors.