2015 Proof American Eagle Silver Coins for Collectors
January 1, 2015 by Darrin Lee Unser · Leave a Comment
Serving as the inaugural product of the year, the United States Mint at noon ET on Friday, January 2, will release the 2015-W Proof American Eagle Silver Coin.
Priced at $48.95, each is composed of one ounce of 99.9% pure silver. The annual issue first debuted in 1986 and is offered as a numismatic version of the bullion American Silver Eagle. Differences from the bullion version include:
- the proof finish, with sharp reliefs and a mirror-like background
- a "W" mint mark
- the use of specially treated and cleaned silver blanks
- the use of special Mint-branded packaging, and
- the inclusion of a certificate of authenticity
Adolph A. Weinman’s full-length figure of Liberty in full stride is featured on the obverse of the silver coin, just as it has been since the coin first debuted. The allegorical figure is wrapped in a flag, with laurel and oak in her left hand as her right hand extends forward. The image was first seen on the 1917 silver half-dollar and is considered by many to be one of the most beautiful to ever grace an American coin.
Reverses depict John Mercanti’s heraldic eagle with shield. An olive branch appears in the right talon with arrows in the left.
Each year, the proof Silver Eagle proves to be one of the most popular numismatic products, if not the top one. Recent unaudited figures through December 24th show sales of 740,746 for last year’s 2015-W Proof American Eagle Silver Coin. No other 2014 collectible products had comparable sales. The 2013-dated issue had sales of 868,494.
Coin Specifications
Denomination: | Dollar |
Composition: | 99.9% Silver |
Weight: | 1.000 troy oz. (31.103 grams) |
Diameter: | 1.598 inches (40.60 mm) |
Thickness: | 0.120 inch (3.05 mm) |
Edge: | Reeded |
Mint and Mint Mark: | West Point – W |
Ordering
When released, the silver coin may be ordered directly from the Mint via its website of www.usmint.gov or by calling 1-800-USA-MINT (872-6468).
Companion bullion 2015 American Silver Eagles become available on January 12th to the Mint’s network of authorized purchasers. The numismatic 2015-W Uncirculated American Eagle Silver Coin has tentatively been scheduled for release in March.