1988 S Proof American Silver Eagle
The 1988 Proof American Silver Eagle is a stunning addition to any coin collection. It’s one of the most sought-after silver coins in the world and has been an incredibly popular item amongst collectors for years.
As a coin collector, it’s essential to understand what makes this particular silver eagle so unique and why it’s so popular. In this article, we’ll take an in-depth look at the 1988 Proof American Silver Eagle, exploring its history, design features, mintage numbers, and market value.
History Of The 1988 Proof American Silver Eagle
The 1988 Proof American Silver Eagle is a collector’s dream come true. This beautiful coin was minted in limited quantity and has become one of the most sought after coins in the world. In fact, it is estimated that less than 1 million were ever produced, making this a highly coveted collectible.
This remarkable coin was first issued in 1986 and features a design based on Adolph A. Weinman’s Walking Liberty Half Dollar that was minted between 1916-1947. It has a weight of 31.103 grams and contains 1 troy ounce of .999 fine silver with a face value of $1 USD.
The reverse side has the heraldic eagle designed by John Mercanti, which has been used by the US Mint since 1986.
For avid numismatists, this stunning piece is an absolute must-have for any collection with its classic design, low mintage figures, and superb condition. As such, it remains one of the most popular coins among collectors around the world and its popularity continues to grow year after year. Its enduring appeal makes it an excellent investment opportunity as well as a great addition to any numismatic portfolio.
Design Features Of The 1988 Proof American Silver Eagle
The 1988 Proof American Silver Eagles are a special breed of collectible coins. These coins come with unique design features that make them highly desirable to coin collectors.
From the beautiful ‘Walking Liberty’ image on the obverse to the iconic heraldic eagle on the reverse, these coins have an unmistakable charm about them.
The obverse of this coin bears the iconic Walking Liberty image designed by Adolph A Weinman. This classic depiction was first used on circulating half-dollars from 1916 to 1947 and has been a mainstay in American coinage ever since its inception.
On the reverse, we find a heraldic eagle, which symbolizes strength and courage. This design was originally created by John Mercanti for use in other US Mint Silver Eagle issues and continues to be featured in current releases.
These coins are also renowned for their high quality and craftsmanship. Each one is struck several times using specially prepared dies that give each coin its unique design features. The coins are then cleaned and polished to provide a mirror-like finish that makes them truly stand out among other collectible coins.
As such, they remain highly sought after by experienced numismatists all over the world.
Mintage Numbers Of The 1988 Proof American Silver Eagle
The American Silver Eagle is one of the most sought after coins for collectors and investors alike. While its minting numbers are relatively small compared to other coins, the 1988 Proof American Silver Eagle stands out as an anomaly in terms of mintage numbers. A mere 81,931 were struck that year, making it one of the rarest issues in the entire series.
This year was unique for many reasons: it was the first time that a proof coin was issued and it was also the last year that a silver eagle had a mint mark. As such, collectors can easily identify this issue from others in the series.
The low mintage numbers have caused prices to soar over time; today, this coin is valued at thousands of dollars by buyers and sellers alike. The 1988 Proof American Silver Eagle has seen tremendous growth in popularity over the past few decades among numismatists worldwide.
Its rarity and beauty make it a coveted item in any collection or portfolio. With its increasing value and limited availability, this coin is sure to be highly sought after for years to come.
Market Value Of The 1988 Proof American Silver Eagle
The 1988 Proof American Silver Eagle is an incredibly desirable coin due to its rarity and collectible value. With only 309,625 coins minted in total, this coin is a true gem among investors and collectors.
Much like other silver bullion coins, the 1988 Proof American Silver Eagle has seen its own fair share of fluctuating market values. At the time of writing, it sells for around $100-$150 depending on its condition.
This coin’s worth can be judged by its premium grade, which is determined by the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS). Coins that are graded PR-70 have been deemed perfect and uncirculated, meaning they come with no signs of wear or damage. These coins are extremely rare and valuable, with prices ranging from $700-$1000 depending on their mint mark.
The 1988 Proof American Silver Eagle remains a popular choice for many investors and collectors who want to add it to their portfolio. Its lasting value has made it one of the most sought-after coins in the world today. With such a limited mintage, this coin will continue to draw attention from those looking to benefit from its increasing market value over time.
Special Editions Of The 1988 Proof American Silver Eagle
The 1988 Proof American Silver Eagle is an iconic coin, and it has been released in a variety of special editions over the years. The most popular are listed below in a table showing each edition, its production year and mintage figure.
| Edition | Year | Mintage Figure |
|---|---|---|
| 20th Anniversary | 2008 | 500,000 |
| 25th Anniversary | 2013 | 225,000 |
| 30th Anniversary | 2018 | 225,000 |
These special editions have been highly sought after by collectors due to their unique designs and limited availability. The 20th anniversary edition featured a ‘W’ mintmark for the West Point Mint, while the 25th anniversary showcased the historic P mintmark from Philadelphia. The 30th anniversary edition was designed with an eagle in flight on the reverse side of the coin to commemorate its long-standing status as America’s official silver bullion coin. All three coins have been struck in stunning proof quality and have become must-haves for any serious collector.
The Silver Eagle continues to be one of America’s most recognizable coins and these special editions provide an opportunity for collectors to own a piece of numismatic history that will be treasured for many years to come. Whether you are just getting started in collecting or are looking to add some rare pieces to your collection, these limited edition coins should definitely be considered as they offer significant value both now and into the future.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The 1988 Proof American Silver Eagle A Legal Tender?
Coin collecting can be a truly thrilling experience. Especially when it comes to the 1988 Proof American Silver Eagle, which is a legal tender and an incredibly valuable piece of history.
This coin has been highly sought after due to its rarity and its beauty, making it a real treasure for any collector.
It’s both a great conversation starter and an impressive addition to any collection, so it’s no wonder that it’s one of the most popular coins around!
What Is The Weight Of The 1988 Proof American Silver Eagle?
The weight of a proof American Silver Eagle can vary depending on the year it was minted. For example, 1988 proof American Silver Eagles have a weight of 1 troy ounce.
That equates to 31.103 grams, making it the heaviest coin in the series.
It’s important to note that these coins are made out of .999 fine silver, which gives them an extra layer of value and collectibility.
What Is The Diameter Of The 1988 Proof American Silver Eagle?
The diameter of a proof American Silver Eagle is typically 40.6 millimeters.
The 1988 s Proof American Silver Eagle is no exception, with a diameter of 40.6mm.
This slightly larger size gives the coin an impressive look and feel, making it one of the most sought-after coins in the collecting community.
How Can I Tell If My 1988 Proof American Silver Eagle Is Authentic?
Authenticating any coin can be a difficult process, and for a 1988 Proof American Silver Eagle, it’s especially important to make sure your specimen is genuine.
The first step is to examine the coin visually. Look at the details of the eagle on the reverse side, such as its wings and feathers, beak, talons, and shield. These details should all be crisp and clear – if they appear fuzzy or worn out, it’s likely that the coin is not authentic.
Additionally, compare the color of your coin against other known examples of Proof Eagles – any difference in color or luster could also be an indication of a fake.
You may also want to consult with an expert in numismatics who can help you verify your coin’s authenticity.
Where Can I Buy A 1988 Proof American Silver Eagle?
Coin collectors regard the 1988 proof American Silver Eagle as a prized acquisition, like a pearl in an oyster.
It’s a rare find and can be located with patience and research.
You can find these coins online, at coin dealers, or through auctions.
Before you buy though, make sure to do your homework to ensure its authenticity.
Also, don’t forget to factor in the costs of shipping and handling when purchasing this valuable coin.
Conclusion
Yes, the 1988 Proof American Silver Eagle is a legal tender coin. It’s a great addition to any coin collection, if you can find one that is authentic.
Authentic coins are easily recognizable due to their weight and diameter. For anyone interested in buying a 1988 Proof American Silver Eagle, they should seek out a reliable dealer who can guarantee the authenticity of the coin.
Investing in this special edition coin will undoubtedly be worth it in the long run; it’s like putting money in the bank! Additionally, owning such an iconic piece of numismatic history is sure to be a conversation starter for years to come.
