2005 American Silver Eagle

2005 American silver eagles have a following among both bullion investors and numismatists alike, and it’s not hard to understand why. After all, American silver eagles are one of the most popular bullion coins in the world today, given their hefty one-ounce weight, large diameter (40.6 millimeters), and long-running production – the series debuted back in 1986. 

Another reason the bullion coin series is so famous is its decidedly American design. The obverse is actually a faithful revival of the Walking Liberty design by Adolph A. Weinman. This design debuted in 1916 on the half dollar and was use on that coin until 1947; it has been on the American silver eagle since 1986. The reverse of the silver eagle features a heraldic eagle, which was designed by John Mercanti.

The West Point mint struck all 2005 American silver eagles. Uncirculated and proof specimens were made, with 8,891,025 of the former and 701,606 of the latter produced. Given their low premium over prevailing spot, the uncirculated example is most popular with bullion investors, while the more expensive proof variety is a favorite among numismatists; in general, the proof 2005 American silver eagle can be bought for about $20 to $25 over the prevailing spot price.