2017 Silver Eagle NGC MS69

In the annals of American numismatic history, few coins have captured the imagination quite like the Silver Eagle. Born from the Liberty Coin Act of 1985, this iconic silver dollar emerged as a testament to America’s enduring spirit and rich artistic heritage. The 2017 issue, graded MS69 by NGC, stands as a pinnacle of modern minting, bridging the gap between historical significance and contemporary appeal.

The Silver Eagle’s design harks back to one of the most beloved figures in American coinage: Adolph A. Weinman’s “Walking Liberty.” First gracing the half-dollar in 1916, this allegorical representation of Liberty striding towards the dawn of a new day captured the optimism of a nation on the brink of becoming a world power. The imagery resonated deeply with Americans, symbolizing progress, freedom, and the indomitable spirit of a young republic.

Weinman, a German-born sculptor who immigrated to the United States as a child, drew inspiration from the Beaux-Arts movement and the classical ideals it championed. His Walking Liberty design was not just a coin motif; it was a reflection of America’s self-image at the turn of the 20th century – bold, forward-looking, and deeply rooted in democratic ideals.

The decision to resurrect this iconic design for the Silver Eagle series in 1986 was a masterstroke, connecting modern bullion to the golden age of American coin design. It served as a bridge between generations, allowing contemporary collectors and investors to hold a piece of numismatic history in their hands.

The 2017 issue represents over three decades of this legacy. Each coin is a canvas, showcasing the meticulous craftsmanship of the United States Mint. The MS69 grade awarded by NGC testifies to its near-perfect condition, a factor that elevates its appeal beyond mere silver content to the realm of numismatic treasure.

As we hold this 2017 Silver Eagle, we’re not just grasping an ounce of silver; we’re cradling a piece of American artistry, a tangible connection to the ideals that have shaped a nation. It’s a reminder that in the world of numismatics, every coin tells a story – and the Silver Eagle’s tale is one of enduring beauty, historical significance, and the timeless allure of precious metals.

Design Features

The obverse of the 2017 Silver Eagle is a testament to the enduring power of classical design. Lady Liberty strides confidently towards the rising sun, her right arm extended in a gesture of hope and her left cradling oak and laurel branches, symbols of civil and military glory. Her flowing gown, reminiscent of classical drapery, ripples with an almost palpable energy, creating a sense of movement that belies the coin’s static nature. The word “LIBERTY” arches prominently above her, while the phrase “IN GOD WE TRUST” is nestled to her right. The date, 2017, anchors the design at the bottom, a modern touch to this timeless image.

The reverse, designed by John Mercanti, presents a heraldic eagle that balances tradition with contemporary aesthetics. The eagle, with wings spread wide, stands behind a shield emblazoned with stars and stripes – a clear nod to the American flag. In its talons, it grasps an olive branch and arrows, echoing the Great Seal of the United States and symbolizing the nation’s desire for peace but readiness for defense. Above the eagle, thirteen stars form an inverted triangle, representing the original colonies and creating a celestial canopy. The inscriptions “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” “1 OZ. FINE SILVER,” and “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: MS69
• Manufacturer: United States Mint
• Mint Mark: W – West Point (Not Shown)
• Grading Service: NGC
• IRA Eligible: No
• Obverse: Walking Liberty design by Adolph A. Weinman
• Reverse: Heraldic eagle design by John Mercanti

Investment Appeal

The 2017 Silver Eagle NGC MS69 stands as a compelling proposition for both collectors and investors. Its near-perfect MS69 grade ensures that it retains the sharpest details and lustrous finish, factors that often command a premium in the numismatic market. The coin’s composition of one troy ounce of .999 fine silver ties its value directly to the precious metals market, providing a hedge against economic uncertainty.

As part of the globally recognized American Silver Eagle series, this coin benefits from unparalleled liquidity. Its status as legal tender, backed by the U.S. government, adds an extra layer of security and authenticity that is highly valued in the bullion market. For collectors, the 2017 issue represents a specific year in the coin’s storied history, potentially gaining additional numismatic value over time.

The combination of historical design, modern minting techniques, and precious metal content makes this Silver Eagle a versatile addition to any portfolio. It offers the potential for appreciation based on both its silver content and its numismatic appeal, providing a balanced investment approach. Whether as a cornerstone of a silver collection, a year-specific addition to an Eagle series, or part of a diverse investment strategy, the 2017 Silver Eagle NGC MS69 offers tangible value wrapped in historical significance and artistic beauty.