1988 American Silver Eagle

The 1988 American Silver Eagle had a total mintage of just over 5 million coins struck at the Philadelphia Mint. This is the third year that American Silver Eagles were struck in both uncirculated and Proof grades. There are only five mintages that had under five million uncirculated coins struck, and the 1988 Silver Eagle was just over 5 million, making it more common than some of the others.

History of the 1988 American Silver Eagle

The 1988 American Silver Eagle is very scarce in some of the highest Mint State grades. Many examples can be found in lower Mint State grades, and oftentimes have scratches and other abrasions due to storage and poor handling. Cherrypicking is advised to ensure a well-struck coin with attractive surfaces. The design on the obverse of the American Silver Eagle was inspired by the “Walking Liberty” design of the Walking Liberty Half Dollar that was designed by Adolph Weinman. It was one of the most beloved designs of all American coins and was revived for the American Silver Eagle coins. The reverse was designed by John Mercanti. It features the American Bald Eagle behind a shield. The eagle is holding arrows and olive branch in its talons. Above the eagle are 13 five-pointed stars that represent the 13 original colonies.