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2021 marks not only the 35th anniversary of the United States Mint’s American Silver Eagle series, but the year that the series' original heraldic eagle reverse design will change to an entirely new design later in 2021.
Early 2021 Silver Eagle issues will still feature the heraldic eagle reverse design created by former United States Mint Chief Engraver John Mercanti. The proof and bullion Silver Eagles are transitioning to a new design created by Emily Damstra of the Mint’s Artistic Infusion Program (AIP) mid-year.
For more information about the new design change, read this Coin-authority Article here!
This 2021-W Proof American Silver Eagle will be the last Proof Silver Eagle struck at the West Point Mint to feature the original heraldic reverse design, marking the end of a numismatic era!
Proof American Silver Eagles are the collector’s version of their bullion counterparts. Struck from 1 troy ounce of .999 fine silver, these coins are backed by the United States government for weight and purity. Proof Silver Eagles are achieved through a special striking process using clean, hand-polished silver planchets that are struck a minimum of two times. The Proof finish is characterized by frosty devices and an almost mirror-like field for an overall lovely presentation of a given design. This issue will be struck at the West Point Mint and will feature the "W" mint mark on its reverse.
Obverse: The obverse of the Silver Eagle features the classic Walking Liberty design created by Adolph Weinman, a German-born sculptor who worked for the United States Mint, who was also famously responsible for the Mercury Dime. The Walking Liberty design first debuted on the Walking Liberty Half Dollar in 1916.
The design portrays Liberty confidently striding across the coin, enveloped by the American Flag, as she holds one arm towards the new day, as the other clutches a bushel of laurel and oak leaves. The inscriptions, “LIBERTY,” “IN GOD WE TRUST,” and the date will appear on this face of the coin.
The reverse of the American Silver Eagle was designed by former 12th Chief Engraver of the United States Mint, John Mercanti, who created over 100 coins for the Mint over his 36-year long career. The reverse features a heraldic Eagle, wings spread and clutching a shield to its chest. The eagle clasps arrows in one talon and an oak branch in the other. Inscriptions include “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” “ONE DOLLAR,” and the metal content, “1 OZ. FINE SILVER.”
Mercanti’s reverse has been used ever since the series was introduced in 1986 and will be changed for the first time in the series history starting in mid-2021. The new reverse design selected for the series was crafted by Emily Damstra of the Mint’s Artistic Infusion Program (AIP).