1986 Proof Silver American Eagle - 1 Troy Oz .999 Pure (First Year of Issue)

The 1986 American Silver Eagle Proof Coin

In October 1986, the American Silver Eagle bullion coin program was initiated after the signing of the 1985 Liberty Coin Act (Public Law: 99-61) by President Ronald Reagan. This marked a resurgence of interest in US Mint silver and gold bullion coins. The 1986 American Silver Eagle Proof coin, with its one Troy ounce of .999 fine silver, or 99.9% pure silver, possesses both melt value and numismatic value. For investors, the bullion version is a solid choice for silver stacking, offering a store of value and liquidity. On the other hand, collectors find the proof version captivating, with its exceptional detail, mirror-like finish, and limited mintage.

The American Silver Eagle Proof coin, often referred to as the U.S. Mint's Silver American Eagle Proof coin or simply a Proof Silver Eagle, stands out as a testament to the artistry and craftsmanship of the US Mint. What distinguishes it from its bullion counterpart is the meticulous process involved in its production. Proof coins are known for their impeccable shine, intricate details, sharp edges, and mirror-like surfaces. Each proof coin is individually hand-pressed, requiring multiple strikes to achieve the desired quality. These coins are never intended for circulation, and they are often sold in elaborate packaging that adds to their overall appeal and price.

While proof coins offer exceptional quality, they also come with a higher price tag compared to standard precious metal coinage. The cost of producing proof coins is greater, and this is reflected in their price. Numismatists frequently describe proof coins as "rare," "collectible," and "extremely valuable." Proof coins are typically labeled with the initials PR or PF to indicate their proof grading status.

Since Money Metals Exchange values the melt value in conjunction with the spot price as being more important than any coin-collecting numismatic value, you will find that the prices of the 1986 American Silver Eagle Proof coins reflect a lower cost or ask price than a numismatist might demand.

The history of the American Silver Eagle Proof coin's minting locations is also noteworthy. Before 1995, all proof coins were minted at the San Francisco Mint and bore the mintmark S, signifying their origin and proof condition. However, from 1995 onwards, proof American Silver Eagles have been minted at the West Point Mint, and they are marked with the mintmark W on the reverse side of the coin.

The design of the 1986 American Silver Eagle Proof coin pays homage to the classic Liberty Walking imagery created by US Mint coin designer Adolph A. Weinman. This design was originally featured on the Walking Liberty silver half-dollar from 1916 to 1947. The Liberty Coin Act of 1985 breathed new life into this neoclassical American design, leading to its resurgence.

On the obverse side of the 1986 Proof coin, Lady Liberty gracefully strides from right to left. She wears a Phrygian cap symbolizing freedom, and her flowing gown appears to be made from the American flag. Laurel branches and oak branches in her left hand represent civil and military glory, respectively. The sun in the background emits 13 rays, symbolizing the thirteen founding colonies of the United States. The year 1986 is inscribed at the bottom, and "In God We Trust" appears to her right. The word "LIBERTY" graces the outer edge of the coin.

The reverse side of the 1986 American Silver Eagle Proof coin features a design by US Mint Chief Engraver John Mercanti. This design, often referred to as the Type-1 design, showcases an American bald eagle with its wings outstretched. The eagle clutches an olive branch with 13 leaves in its right talon, symbolizing peace, and six arrows in its left talon, symbolizing military power. Above the eagle's head are 13 5-pointed stars, representing the original thirteen colonies. The motto "E. Pluribus Unum" is displayed on a banner in the eagle's beak. The mintmark for coins minted in San Francisco is located near the olive branch, while the reverse side artist's initials JM confirm the coin's authenticity near the arrows.

Specifications for the 1986 American Silver Eagle Proof Coin

• Composition: .999 fine silver (99.9% pure) with a copper alloy
• Weight: 31.103 grams, approximately 1 Troy ounce
• Diameter: 40.6 mm (1.6 inches)
• Edge: Reeded
• Mintage: 1,446,778 proof coins

Storing a 1986 American Silver Eagle Proof Coin

To ensure the protection of your 1986 American Silver Eagle Proof coin, it is essential to store it properly to prevent damage, loss, or theft. These special proof coins come in original government packaging (OGP) and are accompanied by a Certificate Of Authenticity (COA). This packaging safeguards the coin from physical harm and simplifies verification and resale in the secondary market.

Options for storage include a home safe, a bank safe deposit box, a secure vault, or a reputable depository like the Money Metals Depository. The latter is often the safest and most cost-effective choice for storing precious metal coins.

Buying a 1986 American Silver Eagle Proof Coin

When purchasing a 1986 American Silver Eagle Proof coin, several factors should be considered. Start by checking the current spot price of silver, as this will provide a baseline for assessing the coin's cost. Research the average asking price from reputable dealers to ensure a fair purchase. Reputable dealers will provide transparent pricing, including the spot price, premiums, and bulk purchase discounts. When buying a 1986 American Silver Eagle, a person will likely save the most money by staying away from the more numismatological sites that have pre-graded (PCGS or NGC grading) proofs or any currency category of those coins.

Money Metals always lists the silver spot price, and all premiums, and provides guarantees on products sold.

Selling a 1986 American Silver Eagle Proof Coin

When selling a 1986 American Silver Eagle Proof coin, knowledge of the day's silver spot price and the coin's average premium is crucial. Sell only to reputable dealers to guarantee a smooth transaction and prompt payment. Be aware that some dealers may have minimum selling requirements, such as a minimum sale amount of $1000. Money Metals Exchange is a trusted option with no minimum selling price.

In conclusion, the 1986 American Silver Eagle Proof coin represents a blend of precious metal investment and numismatic collectibility. Its stunning design, meticulous production, and historical significance make it a prized possession for both investors and collectors alike. Whether you choose to stack silver for financial security or appreciate the artistry of numismatic coins, the 1986 Proof coin offers a unique opportunity to own a piece of American history.

Money Metals Exchange lists the sell-to-us price on most product pages and you can call in directly Mon-Sat during normal business hours to speak with one of our customer service representatives at our phone number: 1-800-800-1865

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If you have any questions (FAQ) about the 1986 American Silver Eagle Proof coin, another year of the proof coin, any of the 1 oz silver american eagles, an American Eagle proof set, a gold American Eagle coin, silver bullion coins, other collection edition or issues of Proof silver Eagles, commemorative coins, storing your precious metal items in the Money Metals Depository, prices, buying or selling to Money Metals, payment method, shipping, insurance, delivery, or anything else, give us a call: 1-800-800-1865

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We are buying this item back daily, and we pay you promptly!

Our current buy pricing is $44.73 each and we will buy up to 20 at this price. Simply call us on any weekday to lock pricing at 1-800-800-1865.

Learn more about the process for selling to us here.