Burnished Silver Eagle Coins
Burnished Silver Eagle Coins are a unique category in the world of numismatics and precious metals. This guide aims to provide a clear understanding of these coins, emphasizing their significance, features, and value to collectors and investors.
Introduction to Burnished Silver Eagles
Burnished Silver Eagle Coins are special versions of the American Silver Eagle coins. The U.S. Mint introduced them in 2006. They have a distinctive matte finish. This finish comes from a special process. It makes the coins stand out.
The Burnishing Process
The process involves polishing the coin blanks before striking. This gives the coins a smooth, matte-like appearance. It highlights the design details. This process is what makes these coins "burnished."
Burnished Silver Eagles Design
- Obverse Design: The front features the "Walking Liberty" design by Adolph A. Weinman. It shows Liberty walking forward, symbolizing freedom.
- Reverse Design: The back shows a heraldic eagle with a shield, designed by John Mercanti. It represents strength and patriotism.
- Material: Each coin contains one troy ounce of .999 fine silver.
- Finish: The matte finish is the result of the burnishing process. It makes the coin's details more prominent.
Why Collect Burnished Silver Eagles?
- Aesthetic Appeal: The unique finish enhances the visual appeal of the coins.
- Rarity: They are produced in lower quantities than other Silver Eagles. This makes them rarer.
- Collectibility: Each coin comes with a certificate of authenticity. They are highly collectible.
- Investment Value: Silver is a valuable asset. The rarity and collectibility of these coins can add to their value.
- Historical Significance: Collecting these coins connects you to a piece of American history.
Collecting Burnished Silver Eagles
Burnished Silver Eagles are suitable for both collectors and investors. Collectors appreciate their beauty and rarity. Investors see their potential for appreciation. These coins are a tangible asset. They diversify investment portfolios.
Burnished American Silver Eagle Coins FAQs
A Burnished American Silver Eagle is a special version of the American Silver Eagle coin that is produced specifically for collectors. The term "burnished" refers to the unique finish and production process used for these coins. Here's what sets the Burnished American Silver Eagle apart:
Production Process: The burnishing process involves taking blank silver planchets (coin discs) and polishing them in a drum with a mixture of materials that give the planchets a smooth, matte-like finish. After burnishing, the planchets are then struck with the coin's design.
Finish: The result of the burnishing process is a coin with a soft, satin-like finish, which is different from the shiny, mirror-like finish of proof coins or the standard finish of bullion coins.
The Burnished Silver Eagles, also known as the Uncirculated or "W Uncirculated" Silver Eagles, are primarily produced at the West Point Mint. These coins typically bear the "W" mintmark to indicate their production at the West Point facility.
However, there was a special exception in 2011 when the San Francisco Mint produced a Burnished Silver Eagle bearing the "S" mintmark. This coin was released as part of the "American Eagle 25th Anniversary Silver Coin Set."
Yes, Burnished American Silver Eagles (ASE) typically have a mint mark to indicate where they were produced. The primary mint mark you'll find on a Burnished ASE is the "W," which signifies that the coin was produced at the West Point Mint.
However, there was a special release in 2011 when the San Francisco Mint produced a Burnished Silver Eagle for the "American Eagle 25th Anniversary Silver Coin Set." This particular coin bears the "S" mintmark to indicate its production at the San Francisco Mint.