1988 American Silver Eagle

1988 American silver eagles represent the third year of the American Eagle bullion coin program, one of the most popular bullion coin series in the world. American silver eagles feature an obverse design that was originally created by Adolph A. Weinman. If the design looks familiar to you, that’s because it is – it was featured on the obverse of the half dollar from 1916 though 1947.

The reverse of the American silver eagle shows a heraldic eagle that is reminiscent of the eagles seen on the Barber quarters and half dollars as well as Draped Bust quarter, halves, and dollar coins.

In 1988, the Philadelphia mint struck 5,004,646 uncirculated American silver eagles while San Francisco made 557,370 proof examples of the coin containing one ounce of .999 fine silver.

There are no varieties to mention for 1988 American silver eagles, but it is important to be very selective when buying any older American eagles; many have been subject to poor handling after they had left the United States Mint, leaving them with splotchy toning and other visual impairments. If you’re a collector, be sure to buy pristine examples. If, however, you are a bullion investor on a budget, you may find deals on the problem coins to be too good to pass up.