Numismatic Reference · 1986–Present
American Silver Eagle
Bullion + numismatic premium, up to $50+ on key years
The most popular silver bullion coin in the world. Each Silver Eagle contains one full troy ounce of .999 fine silver, guaranteed and struck by the US Mint since 1986.
Specs
- Composition
- .999 fine silver
- Weight
- 31.103 g
- Pure silver content
- 1.000 troy oz
- Years struck
- 1986–Present
A short history
Authorized by the Liberty Coin Act of 1985 and first struck in 1986, the American Silver Eagle uses Adolph Weinman's Walking Liberty design on the obverse — a deliberate nod to the classic half dollar series. The reverse featured a heraldic eagle from 1986 through mid-2021, when a redesigned eagle in flight took its place.
What it's made of
One full troy ounce of .999 fine silver, 40.6 mm in diameter. The Mint issues bullion strikes (uncirculated), proof strikes (mirror finish, US Mint packaging), and burnished uncirculated strikes.
Key dates & varieties to watch
- 1995-W Proof — the series key, one of the most valuable modern US coins
- 1996 — lowest-mintage bullion year
- 2021 Type 1 / Type 2 transition — two distinct reverse designs in one year
- 20th and 25th Anniversary sets
Values for key dates depend heavily on grade and authentication. Bring your coins in for an in-person look — we evaluate every piece individually.
How to identify it
- Obverse: Walking Liberty design by Adolph Weinman
- Reverse: Heraldic eagle (1986–mid 2021) or eagle in flight (mid 2021 onward)
- Diameter 40.6 mm, weight 31.103 g, .999 fine silver
- Face value $1 struck on reverse
Frequently Asked Questions
Are proof and burnished Silver Eagles worth more?
Yes. Proof Eagles (mirror finish, mint packaging) and burnished uncirculated Eagles typically carry a numismatic premium above the standard bullion strike, especially for lower-mintage years still in original government packaging.
Do you buy Silver Eagles in tubes or Monster Boxes?
Absolutely. Original Mint tubes (20 coins) and Monster Boxes (500 coins) are welcome and evaluated on the spot.
Related coins we buy
Bring your American Silver Eagles in for a free evaluation
Whether it's a single coin or a full collection, we make competitive offers on the spot. Book online or call — no obligation.