2017 Silver American Eagle – BU

In the annals of American numismatics, few coins capture the essence of national pride and artistic excellence quite like the Silver American Eagle. The 2017 edition of this iconic bullion coin continues a legacy that began in 1986, embodying the spirit of freedom and the enduring strength of the American nation. As the United States emerged from the tumultuous 1970s, a decade marked by economic uncertainty and global tensions, the need for a domestically produced silver bullion coin became apparent. The Silver American Eagle was born out of this necessity, providing both a store of value for investors and a canvas for artistic expression.

The obverse design of the 2017 Silver American Eagle pays homage to one of the most beloved figures in American coinage history – Adolph A. Weinman's Walking Liberty. Originally gracing the half-dollar from 1916 to 1947, this stunning depiction of Lady Liberty striding confidently towards the dawn of a new day resonated deeply with a nation emerging from the shadows of the Great Depression and two World Wars. The flowing gown, draped in stars and stripes, symbolizes the protective embrace of American ideals, while the outstretched arm bearing olive branches embodies the nation's desire for peace through strength.

On the reverse, we find John Mercanti's heraldic eagle, a powerful symbol of American sovereignty and resilience. This majestic bird, shield proudly displayed on its breast, clutches arrows and an olive branch in its talons – a visual representation of the United States' readiness for both war and peace. The thirteen stars above the eagle's head pay tribute to the original colonies, a reminder of the nation's revolutionary origins and its continued commitment to the principles of liberty and justice.

The year 2017 marked a period of economic recovery and technological advancement in the United States. As cryptocurrencies began to capture public imagination, the tangible nature of the Silver American Eagle provided a reassuring counterpoint – a physical store of value with a rich history and government backing. This juxtaposition of traditional and modern forms of wealth preservation only served to enhance the appeal of the Silver Eagle among both seasoned collectors and newcomers to the world of precious metals.

The West Point Mint, where these magnificent coins are struck, carries its own storied legacy. Originally established in 1937 as the West Point Bullion Depository, this facility has played a crucial role in American coinage for decades. Its transformation into a full-fledged mint in 1988 coincided with the rising popularity of the Silver American Eagle program, cementing its place in the hearts of numismatists worldwide.

As we hold the 2017 Silver American Eagle, we're not just possessing an ounce of fine silver; we're cradling a piece of American history, art, and economic resilience. It stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of precious metals in an increasingly digital world, bridging past and present in a single, beautifully crafted coin.

Design Features

The obverse of the 2017 Silver American Eagle showcases Adolph A. Weinman's iconic Walking Liberty design in exquisite detail. Lady Liberty strides purposefully towards the rising sun, her right hand extended in a gesture of hope and optimism. Her left arm cradles branches of laurel and oak, symbols of civil and military glory. The folds of her gown, reminiscent of the American flag, flow gracefully in an unseen breeze. The word "LIBERTY" arches prominently above her, while the phrase "IN GOD WE TRUST" is nestled to her right. The year "2017" is proudly displayed at the bottom, marking this coin's place in the illustrious series.

On the reverse, John Mercanti's heraldic eagle commands attention. This powerful bird, wings spread wide, bears a shield on its chest emblazoned with stars and stripes – a miniature representation of the American flag. In its beak, the eagle holds a ribbon inscribed with the national motto "E PLURIBUS UNUM" (Out of Many, One). Its right talon grasps an olive branch, symbolizing peace, while the left clutches a bundle of arrows, representing strength and readiness. Above the eagle, thirteen five-pointed stars form an inverted triangle, honoring the original thirteen colonies. The inscriptions "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" and "1 OZ. FINE SILVER~ONE DOLLAR" encircle the design, affirming the coin's origin and specifications.

Product Highlights

• Metal Type: SILVER – Hedge
• Purity: 0.999
• Weight: 1 oz
• Grade: BU – Brilliant Uncirculated
• Manufacturer: United States Mint
• Mint Mark: W – West Point (Not Shown)
• IRA Eligible: Yes
• Obverse: Adolph A. Weinman's Walking Liberty design
• Reverse: John Mercanti's heraldic eagle design

Investment Appeal

The 2017 Silver American Eagle stands as a paragon of numismatic excellence and investment wisdom. Its 99.9% pure silver content ensures intrinsic value, while its status as legal tender provides an additional layer of security. The coin's brilliant uncirculated condition preserves its pristine beauty, appealing to collectors who value aesthetic perfection alongside precious metal content.

For investors, the Silver American Eagle's global recognition translates to unparalleled liquidity. Its backing by the United States government instills confidence, making it a favored choice for diversifying portfolios and hedging against economic uncertainties. The coin's eligibility for inclusion in Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs) further enhances its appeal as a long-term investment vehicle.

Collectors will appreciate the 2017 edition as a continuation of a beloved series, with its immaculate strike showcasing every nuance of Weinman and Mercanti's iconic designs. The coin's historical significance, coupled with its limited annual mintage, positions it as a potential numismatic treasure for future generations.

In a world of fluctuating markets and digital assets, the 2017 Silver American Eagle offers a tangible connection to America's rich monetary history. It's not merely a coin; it's a piece of artistry, a store of value, and a testament to the enduring allure of precious metals in the modern age.