The 2011 Proof Silver Eagle continues a celebrated tradition of collectible silver coins from the United States Mint that began in 1986. These coins were initially made available to the public on June 30, 2011, at a price of $59.95, with an initial household order limit of 100 coins.
Despite the ordering restriction, demand surged as collectors sought to secure these Proof Silver Eagles. Within the first six days, approximately 367,623 coins were ordered. By the two-week mark, sales had reached 407,991 coins, prompting the Mint to lift the order limit.
Proof Silver Eagles are crafted as premium numismatic editions of the Mint’s widely popular bullion Silver Eagles. While the bullion coins cater to investors seeking silver for their portfolios, Proof Eagles are designed specifically for collectors. Since their debut, millions of Proof Eagles have been produced and sold.
However, the series faced a brief hiatus in 2009 due to unprecedented demand for bullion coins, which the Mint was legally required to prioritize. The Proof Eagles made their return in November 2010, with new legislation granting the Mint flexibility to produce numismatic coins regardless of bullion demand.
Superior Craftsmanship and Presentation
The Proof Silver Eagles are meticulously produced at the U.S. Mint’s West Point facility. These coins are struck using a specialized minting process described by the Mint as follows:
“A specialized minting process, which begins by manually feeding burnished coin blanks into presses fitted with special dies. The coin is struck multiple times so the softly frosted, yet detailed images seem to float above a mirror-like field. After scrutiny by white-gloved inspectors, each American Eagle Proof Coin is sealed in a protective plastic capsule and mounted in a handsome satin-lined velvet presentation case with its own official Certificate of Authenticity.”
Iconic Designs
The obverse of each Proof Silver Eagle features Adolph A. Weinman’s timeless Walking Liberty design, originally appearing on half dollars minted between 1916 and 1947. This design is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful ever to adorn U.S. coinage.
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On the reverse, John Mercanti’s depiction of a heraldic eagle with a shield takes center stage. Both designs have graced the Silver Eagle series since its introduction in 1986.
Other Silver Eagle Variants
In addition to the Proof Silver Eagles, the U.S. Mint also produces bullion and uncirculated versions, catering to different market segments.
Annual Proof Silver Eagle Mintages
Below is a summary of annual mintages for the Proof Silver Eagles:
| Year | Mintage / Sold |
|---|---|
| 1986-S | 1,446,778 |
| 1987-S | 904,732 |
| 1988-S | 557,370 |
| 1989-S | 617,694 |
| 1990-S | 695,510 |
| 1991-S | 511,924 |
| 1992-S | 498,543 |
| 1993-P | 405,913 |
| 1994-P | 372,168 |
| 1995-P | 407,822 |
| 1995-W | 30,102 |
| 1996-P | 498,293 |
| 1997-P | 435,350 |
| 1998-P | 450,728 |
| 1999-P | 549,330 |
| 2000-P | 600,743 |
| 2001-W | 746,398 |
| 2002-W | 647,342 |
| 2003-W | 747,831 |
| 2004-W | 801,602 |
| 2005-W | 816,663 |
| 2006-W | 843,602 |
| 2007-W | 821,759 |
| 2008-W | 700,979 |
| 2009 | No Proofs Minted |
| 2010 | 860,000* |
*Unaudited figure published by the U.S. Mint
The 2011 Proof Silver Eagle is a testament to the enduring appeal of the series, combining historical significance, exceptional artistry, and the highest standards of minting quality.