Collect the 2008 Burnished Silver Eagle specimen proof coin. This rare find has the highest SP70 grade, meaning the condition shows full, original mint luster, and no detracting flaws even at 5x magnification. Each specimen proof coin has unique characteristics, not found in any standard proof piece. American Silver Eagle Burnished coins undergo a unique coining process that yields result distinctive from other Proof coins. First, the silver blank is polished using a steel ball and hand placed in the coining press. Once struck, it is removed by hand and instantly sealed. All Burnished Silver Eagle coins come from the West Point Mint and bears the desirable "W" mintmark except for one year in 2011 when they made an additional coin at San Fransisco. The total 2008 mintage was 535,000, and was the third annual release.
The Silver Eagle has patriotic design elements, including Adolph A. Weisman's Walking Liberty, which depicts Liberty walking on the horizon with her right arm reaching. The American flag draped around her shoulders. This design dates back to 1916 and served on the nations walking liberty half dollar until 1947. The inscription alongside Lady Liberty reads, "In God We Trust." On the reverse, a depiction of John Mercanti, chief engraver of the United States Mint, heraldic eagle, in front of a shield holding 13 arrows in its left talon. With the inscription, "United States Of America 1 oz Fine Silver - One Dollar". Each Silver Eagle has a face value of $1 US dollar and made of 1 Troy oz. .999 pure silver. They have a reeded edge and weigh 31.1 grams, with a 40.6 mm diameter.
This coin is a perfect specimen with rare characteristics, making it highly desirable. Burnished Silver Eagle coins are an annual release that began on the 20th anniversary of the American Silver Eagle collection. They exhibit the stunning finish and mirror-like background expected of this yearly coin release.
