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American Silver Eagles are the official silver bullion coin of the United States. These coins have been issued since 1986 and contain one ounce of silver. Both bullion versions and collectible versions have been offered by the United States Mint. In 2009 demand for silver bullion coins resulted in the cancellation of the collectible versions of the coins. Collectors wonder if the same thing might happen for 2010.

The US Mint issues the bullion versions of the coin to a network of authorized purchasers. These large scale bullion buyers purchase the coins for a price based on the spot price of silver plus a mark up. The coins are then resold to other bullion dealers, coin dealers, and the public at market prices.

The collector coins are sold directly by the United States Mint. Recent offerings have consisted of a proof version of the coin, which features frosted raised elements and mirrored background elements to produce a cameo effect. These high quality strikes are sold at a premium price. A second offering is the collectible uncirculated coin. These are struck on specially burnished blanks and carry a “W” mint mark to signify mintage at West Point.

Based on statements from the United States Mint, they are legally required to produce the bullion coins in quantities sufficient to meet public demand. There is no legal requirement to produce the coins for collectors. Based on their interpretation of the law, the US Mint sourced all incoming precious metals blanks to the production of bullion coins.

In October 2009, they officially announced that the 2009 Proof Silver Eagle and 2009 Uncirculated Silver Eagle would not be issued. The Mint cited their legal obligation to produce bullion coins and stated that they would work with precious metals blanks suppliers to attempt to increase supply, so that more coins could be produced in 2010.

The US Mint was recently forced to suspend the sale of silver bullion coins amidst another surge in demand. Sales to authorized purchasers were resumed shortly thereafter, but under an allocation program, which limited the number of coins that could be purchased. Collectors are hoping that the US Mint can reverse the situation soon so that the 2010 collector coins may be produced.

Learn more about the American Silver Eagle. Keep up to date with the latest information about the status of the 2010 Silver Eagle.

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