2011 American Silver Eagle

Overview:

The American Silver Eagle is the official silver bullion coin of the United States, renowned for its beauty, purity, and the assurance of government backing for its weight, content, and purity. First issued in 1986, this coin has become a favorite among investors and collectors alike for its iconic design and investment value in precious metals.

Design:

• Obverse: The obverse features Adolph A. Weinman’s classic “Walking Liberty” design, originally used on the Walking Liberty Half Dollar from 1916 to 1947. Lady Liberty, draped in the stars and stripes, strides confidently towards the sunrise, symbolizing freedom and hope. Encircling her are the inscriptions “LIBERTY,” “IN GOD WE TRUST,” and the year of minting.
• Reverse: The reverse, designed by John Mercanti, showcases a heraldic eagle with a shield, grasping an olive branch in its right talon and arrows in its left, echoing the Great Seal of the United States. Above the eagle are 13 stars, representing the original colonies. Inscriptions include “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” “1 OZ. FINE SILVER,” “ONE DOLLAR,” and “E PLURIBUS UNUM.”

Specifications:

• Metal Composition: Each American Silver Eagle is struck from one troy ounce of .999 fine silver, making it one of the purest silver coins in the world.
  Weight and Diameter: With an exact weight of 31.1035 grams (1 troy ounce) and a diameter of 40.6 mm, the coin has a substantial feel that reflects its quality.
• Legal Tender: Despite its intrinsic and market value far exceeding its face value, the coin carries a nominal face value of one dollar, fully backed by the U.S. government.

Mint and Variants:

• The American Silver Eagle coins do not bear a mint mark and are most commonly minted at the West Point Mint and are the bullion version of the American Silver Eagle.

Investment and Collectibility:

• Bullion Value: The American Silver Eagle is a cornerstone for investors looking to diversify their portfolios with precious metals. Its value tracks closely with the market price of silver.
• Collector’s Item: Beyond its bullion appeal, collectors try to acquire every year the Silver Eagle was minted.
• Bulk Options: For investors, coins are also available in mint-sealed “Monster Boxes” containing 500 coins, showcasing the U.S. Mint’s commitment to bulk silver investment.

Conclusion:

The American Silver Eagle coin stands as a testament to American craftsmanship, symbolizing freedom, strength, and the enduring value of silver. Whether you’re an investor looking to secure tangible assets or a collector in pursuit of numismatic beauty, the American Silver Eagle offers both the reliability of government-backed currency and the allure of one of the world’s most recognized silver coins.