United States Mint American Silver Eagle 1oz Bullion Coin
Coin/Bullion · United States Mint, the official government mint of the USA, founded in 1792. It is globally recognized for high-purity precious metal production and strict quality standards.
Pattern: American Eagle Series; 'Type 1' Reverse by John Mercanti. The series was introduced in 1986 and remains in production today (though the reverse design changed in mid-2021).
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
United States Mint, the official government mint of the USA, founded in 1792. It is globally recognized for high-purity precious metal production and strict quality standards.
Material
Fine Silver (.999 pure), containing 1 Troy Ounce of silver. It is solid precious metal with no base metal or interior filler.
Dimensions
Diameter: 40.6 mm; Thickness: 2.98 mm; Weight: 31.103 grams (1 Troy Ounce).
Description
An iconic American silver bullion coin, the Silver Eagle is the world's most widely traded silver coin. The reverse shown displays John Mercanti's powerful heraldic eagle, a symbol of national strength and purity. It is highly liquid and favored by both precious metal investors and numismatic collectors.
Key Features
Weight and purity guaranteed by the US Government; Type 1 heraldic eagle reverse; Reeded edge; High-relief striking.
Material & Composition
Fine Silver (.999 pure), containing 1 Troy Ounce of silver. It is solid precious metal with no base metal or interior filler.
Finish & Decoration
Bullion finish with a satin luster and mirror-like fields. The reverse features a heraldic eagle with a shield, olive branch, and arrows, beneath 13 stars. Neoclassical/Modern American style.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped '1 OZ. FINE SILVER~ONE DOLLAR'. While not having traditional silversmith hallmarks, it contains the legal tender denomination and purity certification of the US Government. Lacks a visible mint mark (common for bullion versions).
Construction Details
Precision die-struck on a machine press using high-tonnage pressure. Features a reeded edge (vertical ridges) as a security and decorative feature.
Functional Features
Monetary legal tender value of $1 USD, though its intrinsic metal value far exceeds this. Designed for stacking, storage, and investment.
Handle & Grip Details
None; the item is a rimmed coin designed for tactile identification via the reeded edge.
Craftsmanship Details
Industrial high-quality striking; perfect symmetry; crisp lettering; evidence of authentic 'mint luster' which creates a cartwheel effect when rotated under light.
Authentication Indicators
Correct font styles and spacing in 'UNITED STATES OF AMERICA'; specific detail on eagle feathers; presence of the designer's initials 'JM'; distinct reeded edge consistency.
Origin & Manufacturing
USA. Primary production facilities include West Point, San Francisco, and Philadelphia Mints.
Era & Period
Late 20th to 21st Century (Modern Bullion Era). Historical context relates to the Liberty Coin Act of 1985.
Age Estimate
Circa 1986–2021 based on the Heraldic Eagle 'Type 1' reverse design visible in the image.
Cultural Significance
Represents the standard for silver investment in the Western world; symbolizes American economic stability and the heritage of US coinage.
Condition Notes
Very Good to Excellent. Shows some 'milk spots' (white cloudy patches typical of the minting process) and light surface scratches/handling marks consistent with bullion grade.
Value Estimate
Spot price of 1oz silver plus a 'premium' (typically $3–$10 above spot depending on market demand and year).
Care & Maintenance
Handle with cotton gloves to prevent skin oils from causing toning; store in PVC-free plastic capsules or airtight tubes; do not polish, as scrubbing ruins the numismatic value.
Similar Pieces
Canadian Silver Maple Leaf (9999 purity), Austrian Silver Philharmonics, and Private Mint Rounds (the latter lack legal tender status and government guarantee).
Interesting Facts
The obverse (not shown) features Adolph A. Weinman's 'Walking Liberty' design, originally used on the half-dollar from 1916-1947. This is the most popular silver investment coin in history.