These rare coins were given a face value of one dollar basically to protect it from various counterfeiting laws and this value was low enough to ensure they would never actually be in market circulation. The one dollar face value also holds sentimental appeal to those who remember the circulating silver dollars of long ago.



The American Silver Eagle coins, which are also known as American Eagle Silver Bullion Coins, are the only official investment-grade silver bullion coins whose weight, content, and purity are guaranteed by the United States Government. The Liberty Coin Act became Public Law: 99-61 on July 9, 1985 and amended federal law to direct the Secretary of Treasury to issue the one dollar silver bullion coins of specified size, weight, design and quantities through the United States Mint.

During the release ceremony for the American Silver Eagle coins on October 29, 1986, the Secretary of the Treasury, James Baker III, stated that these coins would provide investors with high qualities of silver, which will be a source of pride and enjoyment for the owner.

The American Silver Eagle coins contains exactly one ounce of .999 fine silver with an additional 0.0007 copper giving it a gross weight of 31.101 grams, and containing exactly one ounce of silver. The exact quantity and quality published officially give a kind of special guarantee to the buyers.

The legislation that originally authorized the American Gold Eagle coins had omitted any reference to a silver issue. Therein lies the big difference between the two. However, this was ultimately corrected with a second bill passed that same day on December 17, 1985.

Gold coins have always been a favorite of collectors. That attitude is aided by the assurance that gold coins are a sure offset to financial risks and a guarantee against inflation. They will surely increase portfolio returns as well in any market.

Another special characteristic of the Gold Eagle Coins is their artistic beauty and their historical significance. The most valuable gold coins are those minted before 1933. Of them, perhaps the most charming one is the $20 gold Double Eagle, first minted in 1907.

Now let us look at the peculiarities of American Platinum Eagle Coins. Their features are changed every year and as a result of these changes the design shows an entirely new look. The design we find on the reverse side is different in certain respects from the one on the obverse.

The wonderful platinum coins have been designed by John M Mercanti. On every such coin we find the inscription "Liberty" and the motto "In God We Trust." These are found on both sides and the date too is provided. There have been special series like the "Vistas of Liberty" series of 1998-2002.

Have you not compared the special features of the silver coins with two other famous coins? Now the decision is yours. Make sure that you go for quality and artistic value.