First minted in 1986, the American Silver Eagle coin is the official silver coin of the United States government. It’s a physical form of silver, so it’s generally considered “bullion,” which refers to precious metals like gold and silver in solid form. The precious metals experts from First National Bullion, San Diego collectors’ premier choice for high-quality gold and silver coins, invite you to take a moment to learn more about what’s considered the most popular silver coin in the world today.

Why Silver Eagles Are Appealing

Sometimes referred to simply as ASE, each officially minted American Silver Eagle coin weighs 1 troy ounce ASW, or actual silver weight. Millions of Silver Eagles are produced each year, so it’s not a rare coin by any means. In fact, there’s a federal law that requires the United States Mint to produce enough of these coins to meet demand.

Created to comply with the Liberty Coin Act of 1985, ASEs are appealing to many collectors and investors because of their majestic design and other unique qualities. The US Mint also produces special-issue Silver Eagles from time to time. Silver Eagles can typically be purchased as single coins, in rolls, or in boxes of larger quantities. ASEs also have a consistent value. During the financial crisis in 2008, the US Mint actually had difficulty keeping up with the spike in demand from investors and the general public.

Impressive Liquidity

Silver Eagle coins are widely recognized and valued around the world, which makes them easy to sell and trade. ASEs also have impressive liquidity, meaning it’s easy to get cash for your coins. For instance, you can sell your Silver Eagle coins if you need some extra cash for bills or other urgent situations. What’s more, you can usually do so without worrying about significant capital gains tax issues.

Types of Silver Eagles

Official bullion Silver Eagles don’t have a mint mark. This is done to prevent price spikes associated with special mints. Additional types of Silver Eagles you can purchase include:

• Proof American Silver Eagles – These are numismatic ASEs with a mint mark. These coins are hand pressed rather than mass-produced.
• Uncirculated American Silver Eagles – Initially produced as 20th-anniversary ASEs in 2006, these coins have a more satin-like finish and are still produced annually. There’s also a mint mark on these coins—usually a W.
• Reverse Proof American Silver Eagles – These ASEs are only minted on special occasions. Unique features include a mirror-like appearance and frosted fields.

You can also find what’s referred to as Enhanced Uncirculated American Silver Eagles. These are specially minted coins with finishes that can be more mirror-like, lightly frosted, or heavily frosted.

How to Purchase Silver Eagles

Bullion Silver Eagles aren’t available for direct purchase from the US Mint. However, you can purchase these coins from an authorized purchaser or distributor. A reputable precious metals firm can provide additional details if you’re interested in ASEs or any of the Silver Eagle variations mentioned above. 

If you live in San Diego, silver bars and coins of the highest quality are available at First National Bullion and Coin. We buy and sell all kinds of precious metals, including silver, platinum, gold, and palladium. San Diego collectors who are looking for trustworthy dealers and high-quality service should give us a call at (855) 919-2564 to speak with one of our precious metals experts. 

The statements made in this blog are opinions, and past performance is not indicative of future returns. Precious metals, like all investments, carry risk. Precious metals and coins may appreciate, depreciate, or stay the same in cash value depending on a variety of factors. First National Bullion does not guarantee, and its website and employees make no representation, that any metals for sale will appreciate sufficiently to earn the customers a profit. The decision to buy, sell, or borrow precious metals and which precious metals to purchase, borrow, or sell are made at the customer’s sole discretion.