American Silver Coins

 

ABOUT US SILVER COINS

Silver stands as a globally revered precious metal, historically minted into coins by numerous countries, including the United States. From 1796 to 1965, it was the predominant metal in American coinage until the rising silver prices necessitated a shift to copper-nickel alloys for coin production post-1965.

Today, those interested in US minted silver coins have two primary choices: silver bullion coins, such as the American Eagle or America the Beautiful series, and junk silver coins, which include 90% and 40% silver content coins like half dollars, quarters, and dimes.

 

UNITED STATES MINT

Established under the Coinage Act of 1792, the US Mint was tasked with producing circulation coins for the newly founded USA, initially setting up in Philadelphia, the then capital. The Mint is renowned for its two flagship series, the American Eagle and America the Beautiful silver coins, which are celebrated by investors and collectors alike for their embodiment of the nation's history and pride.

 

AMERICAN SILVER EAGLE COINS

Launched in 1986, the American Silver Eagle coins are minted from .999 fine silver and are available in a single weight of 1 troy ounce. The US Mint offers these stunning coins in three finishes: proof, uncirculated, and burnished, all bearing a $1 USD denomination guaranteed by the US Government for its weight and purity. With annual issuances around 40 million coins, the American Silver Eagle is a highly coveted piece in any collection.

The obverse of the coin features the iconic Walking Liberty design by Adolph A. Weinman, which was initially introduced on the Walking Liberty Half Dollar minted from 1916 to 1947. This design captures Lady Liberty in stride towards the dawn, draped in the American flag, with oak and laurel branches in her grasp.

The reverse showcases a heraldic eagle with outstretched wings, designed by John Mercanti in 1986, gripping arrows and an olive branch, symbolizing strength and peace.

 

AMERICA THE BEAUTIFUL SILVER COINS

The America the Beautiful series, depicting various national parks and landmarks, follows the success of the state quarters minted from 1999 to 2008. In 2010, the Mint introduced the 5 oz. America the Beautiful .999 fine silver bullion quarters to honor the nation's forests, parks, and monuments.

Annually, five coins are released, each highlighting a different American locale on the reverse. This series, set to conclude in 2021, will comprise 56 quarter dollars featuring George Washington's left-profile portrait on the obverse, designed by John Flanagan in 1932.

Bullion Hunters is dedicated to guiding you to the best prices online for US silver coins, including the American Silver Eagle and America The Beautiful Quarters Series. While Bullion Hunters does not sell precious metals directly, we are committed to helping you find the most competitive prices and valuable resources for your collection.