Silver Eagle Uncirculated

View as Grid List
Page

Items 1-24 of 43

View as Grid List
Page

Items 1-24 of 43

One of the most popular Silver Eagle coins in the world for numismatic collectors is the Uncirculated American Silver Eagle, which is a great starting point for anyone interested in coin collecting or stacking bullion. All Silver Eagle Coins in the series share the same Walking Liberty design on the obverse, though the design was modified in 2021 when the Type 2 design debuted. Mint marks, which signify the production facility, do not appear on Uncirculated Silver Eagles, but do appear on proof and burnished versions (even though both proof and burnished coins are also technically “uncirculated”). Each year, the U.S. Mint’s annual release of the Silver Eagle is highly anticipated as people scramble to get their single coins, rolls, monster boxes, and gorgeous certified pieces, which are available with a variety of themed labels. Keep reading to learn more about this iconic series and to shop our extensive Uncirculated Silver Eagle inventory.

What Does It Mean When a Silver Dollar Is Uncirculated?

When a silver dollar is described as "uncirculated," it means that the coin has never entered into circulation. In other words, an "uncirculated" silver dollar has never been used in everyday financial transactions and, therefore, retains its original mint condition. Two key indicators help in determining if a silver dollar is truly uncirculated:

Firstly, mint luster is a crucial factor. This is the unique sheen or shine that coins have when they first come out of the mint. This luster is quite delicate and fades quickly when a coin is put into circulation and handled by people. Even without circulation, the luster can diminish over time due to various environmental factors.

Secondly, an uncirculated coin shows no trace of wear, especially on its high points. These high points are the first to exhibit signs of wear through rubbing or depreciation once the coin enters circulation. It's important to note, however, that being uncirculated doesn't necessarily mean the coin is in flawless condition. It's common for uncirculated coins to have contact marks, such as small dings or scratches, which occur during the minting process or while the coins are being transported. These marks are distinctly different from the wear and tear that coins experience in circulation, and coin experts can generally differentiate between the two.

Are Uncirculated Coins Worth Anything?

Uncirculated Silver Eagles are highly appealing to collectors and stackers due to their elevated condition compared to other circulated coinage. Silver Eagles, while legal tender for $1, are not released into general circulation. Uncirculated silver dollars often have greater luster with minimal traces of wear. While not always in pristine condition due to mint handling, Father Time, and transportation, Uncirculated Silver Eagle coins will still generally garner higher premiums than circulated coins.

History of the Silver Eagle Dollar

The Silver Eagle Dollar was authorized by Congress in the Liberty Coin Act of 1985. This legislation was conceived and enacted to provide silver enthusiasts with a safe, simple means of purchasing precious metals. The U.S. Mint first released the American Silver Eagle in 1986, with the 1986 date on the obverse and on the coin’s side. On October 29, 1986, the very first American Silver Eagle was struck at the San Francisco Assay Office. Secretary of the Treasury at the time, James A. Baker III said, “I don't need a pick and shovel to start the San Francisco Silver Rush of 1986,” as he pushed a button to start the coin press at the striking ceremony.

U.S Government Guaranteed

Enforced by the Secret Service, the American Silver Eagle is backed by the United States Government for its weight, silver content, and purity. Three U.S. Mints strike American Silver Eagles, the West Point Mint, the San Francisco Mint, and the Philadelphia Mint. The U.S. Mint also strikes proof and uncirculated, also known as burnished, versions specially minted for collectors. Although Silver Eagle Coins are U.S. legal tender with a one-dollar face value, they are generally are independently traded based on collectability and silver content. The American Silver Eagle is guaranteed by the U.S. government to be made of one troy ounce of 99.9% fine silver. American Silver Eagles have a 40.6mm diameter, with a 2.98mm thickness, and a reeded edge.

Type 1 Silver Eagle Obverse Design

The obverse design is based on the historic Adolph A. Weinman “Walking Liberty” design first introduced on the silver half-dollar from 1916 to 1947. The iconic image has become one of the most recognizable coin designs and is also one of the most beloved designs among all U.S. coinage, modern or otherwise. Seven decades later, Weinman’s design was revived for the American Silver Eagle in 1986. The obverse features a left profile of Lady Liberty, with the American flag draped over her shoulders, while she holds symbolic branches in one arm. Her other arm reaches out in front of her, as if showing the way to freedom.

The inscription, LIBERTY is above her head, with IN GOD WE TRUST to the right of her heel, with the year below her feet.

Type 1 Silver Eagle Obverse DesignType 1 Silver Eagle Obverse Design

Type 1 Silver Eagle Reverse - Heraldic Eagle Design 

The first reverse design, known today as the Type 1 Heraldic Eagle reverse, appeared on the series from its debut in 1986 until mid-2021, when the Type 2 reverse design was introduced. The Heraldic Eagle reverse was designed by the talented modern-day engraver and former Chief Engraver of the United States Mint, John Mercanti, and portrays a heraldic eagle behind a shield, displaying American strength and pride. Since the Philadelphia Mint began in 1792, the U.S. heraldic eagle design has been on most American coinage in various forms, featuring a powerful American eagle proudly spreading its wings spread, with the national shield on its breast. The majestic eagle clutches the arrows of war in one talon and the olive branch of peace in the other, echoing the Great Seal of the United States, signifying strength through peace. A ribbon is held in the Eagles beak, inscribed with “E Pluribus Unum,” which is Latin for, "Out of many, one." A 13-star triangle cluster is above the eagle, representing the original 13 colonies, with inscriptions, “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” above, and “1 OZ. FINE SILVER~ONE DOLLAR” below. The artist's initials, “JM," appears just below the arrows.

Type 1 Heraldic Eagle Reverse Design Type 1 Heraldic Eagle Reverse Design

Type 2 Silver Eagle Design 

In 2021, the U.S. Mint unveiled a fresh design for the reverse of the American Silver Eagle, marking a significant moment in the coin's 35 year history. This new design, known as Type 2 Eagle Landing design, was launched to commemorate the coin's 35th anniversary and represents the first significant update to its design since the series' inception. The Type 2 design features an enhanced Walking Liberty obverse and a new reverse design that depicts an eagle landing, adding a dynamic and contemporary feel to this iconic coin.

Uncirculated American Silver Eagles for Sale at GovMint

When you buy Uncirculated American Silver Eagles at GovMint, you can rest assured that you are buying authentic United States coinage. With over 30 years of experience as a coin dealer, GovMint is your trusted dealer for buying Uncirculated American Silver Eagles. Our dedication to exemplary customer service is reflected in our A+ BBB rating. You can view our return policy here. Browse our website GovMint.com or call 1-800-642-9160 to see how American Silver Eagles can enhance your coin collection or silver stack today!