The 2001 Silver Eagle – NGC Mint State 69
The American Silver Eagle program commenced in 1986, representing more than a decade’s worth of effort to help bring the U.S. into the international bullion market, with a coin that would represent American pride and values. By 2001, it was clear that the program was an unparalleled success, and the 2001 Mint State 69 Silver Eagle demonstrates why. From its stunning and classic design to its value backed by the U.S. Government, it’s a coin worthy of collections from beginning enthusiasts to serious silver stackers.
2001 American Silver Eagles are bullion coins containing 1 oz. of .999 fine silver, which is nearly pure silver. That high silver content contributes to the coin’s intrinsic value, but perhaps equally so does the iconic and beloved design.
Beginning in 2001, all American Silver Eagles were struck at the West Point mint (NY), while previously the coins had been produced at both the Philadelphia and San Francisco mints. This move did not affect mintage numbers, which were running high in 2001 to meet unprecedented demand. The mintage of uncirculated coins topped 9 million in 2001, but values remain steady as the coin’s value is linked to the price of bullion. The reeded 2001 American Silver Eagle weighs in at 31.103 g, and its diameter is 2.98 mm.
The design of the MS69 2001 Silver Eagle
When considering the design for the American Silver Eagle, the U.S. Mint chose to build on a strong heritage of beautiful craftsmanship as well as introduce new and striking elements. Accordingly, the obverse of the Silver Eagle features the “Walking Liberty” design, first popularized as the obverse of the Walking Liberty Half Dollar (1916-1947). This image, created by Adolph A. Weinman, depicts a fearless Lady Liberty walking before a rising sun. Her right arm is outstretched to greet the sun’s rays, while her left cradles olive branches. The inscription on the obverse reads “2001,” LIBERTY,” and the motto “IN GOD WE TRUST.”
For the reverse, a new design was selected, John Mercanti’s heraldic American bald eagle rising before a shield with its wings flung wide. In its talons the eagle brandishes both olive branches and arrows, and above it is a canopy of thirteen five-pointed stars. The reverse’s inscription includes “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” “1 OZ. FINE SILVER—ONE DOLLAR” and “E PLURIBUS UNUM.”
Why add the 2001 Silver Eagle – NGC Graded MS 69 Coin to your Collection?
The popularity of the American Eagle program is not by accident. With the combination of beautiful designs and demonstrated value, the coins have found favor with both established silver stackers and new collectors alike. In addition to having a silver content backed by the U.S. government, you can rest easy knowing your coin has been graded by the Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC) as Mint State 69. This grading reflects the brilliance of the coin’s high-relief image, and indicates that the coin has an attractive sharp strike, with full luster of the original mintage, and no more than two small, non-detracting contact marks or flaws. The coin is also completely free of hairlines and scuff marks, giving it exceptional eye appeal. For beauty, value and lasting worth, the 2001 American Silver Eagle is a perfect addition to any silver collection. Please note: This product may have an NGC holder that is of an older style than what is pictured.
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