Coin Specifications
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Coin: American Silver Eagle
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Mint: United States Mint
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Metal: .999 Fine Silver
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Weight: 31.103g (1 troy oz)
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Face Value: $1 USD (Legal Tender)
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Condition: Best Value Pre-Owned
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VAT Status: Subject to UK VAT
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Note: Year and reverse design vary by stock availability
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The 1oz American Silver Eagle is one of the world's most recognised and best-selling silver bullion coins, minted by the United States Mint from 1 troy ounce of .999 fine silver. First introduced in 1986, every coin is backed by the US Government for weight and purity. Our Best Value Pre-Owned option offers the most cost-effective way to own this iconic coin — same precious metal content, lower premium. Read: How to Invest in Silver for Beginners and New vs Pre-Owned Bullion.
Pre-owned coins may show signs of age or storage including milk spots, light scratches, minor scuffs, or natural toning. These cosmetic imperfections are completely normal and have no impact on silver weight, purity or investment value. Year of issue and reverse design (Heraldic Eagle or Flying Eagle) vary by stock.
Obverse Design
The obverse carries Adolph A. Weinman's iconic "Walking Liberty" design, first used on the US Walking Liberty Half Dollar from 1916 to 1947 and revived for the American Silver Eagle in 1986. The design shows Liberty striding forward, draped in the American flag and carrying oak and laurel branches, symbolising civic and military glory. It is widely regarded as one of the finest coin designs ever produced by the United States Mint.
Reverse Design
Earlier issues (1986–2020) feature John Mercanti's heraldic eagle reverse — a detailed bald eagle with a shield, holding an olive branch and arrows beneath 13 stars. From 2021, the reverse was updated to a new design by Emily Damstra showing an eagle in flight carrying an oak branch. Year of issue and reverse design vary by stock availability for pre-owned coins.
Why Choose the American Silver Eagle?
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1 troy oz of .999 fine silver — US Government guaranteed weight and purity
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World's most recognised silver bullion coin — highly liquid globally
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Lower premium — best value pre-owned pricing
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Walking Liberty obverse — one of the finest coin designs in American history
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Ideal for investors and collectors building a silver stack
Comparing silver options? Read: Silver Coins vs Silver Bars and Gold vs Silver Investment UK 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the American Silver Eagle subject to CGT in the UK?
The American Silver Eagle is US legal tender but is not UK legal tender, so it does not qualify for the CGT exemption available to British coins such as Silver Britannias or Gold Sovereigns. Gains on Silver Eagle coins may be subject to Capital Gains Tax. We recommend consulting a tax adviser for your personal circumstances. See our CGT-free gold coins guide for UK-exempt alternatives.
What condition are the pre-owned Silver Eagles?
Our Best Value pre-owned Silver Eagles are investment-grade coins that may show cosmetic imperfections typical of circulated or stored bullion — such as milk spots, minor surface marks, light scratches, or natural toning. These have no effect on silver content, weight, or purity and are normal for pre-owned silver bullion. Read: New vs Pre-Owned Bullion.
Which year and reverse design will I receive?
As a best value pre-owned listing, year of issue and reverse design vary by available stock. You may receive an earlier issue (1986–2020) featuring the classic Mercanti heraldic eagle reverse, or a more recent coin (2021+) featuring the newer flying eagle reverse by Emily Damstra. Both contain the same 1 troy oz of .999 fine silver.
How does the Silver Eagle compare to the Silver Britannia?
Both coins contain 1 troy oz of .999 fine silver. The key difference for UK investors is tax treatment: the Silver Britannia is UK legal tender and CGT-free, while the Silver Eagle is not UK legal tender and may be subject to CGT. The Silver Eagle typically trades at a slightly higher premium internationally due to its global recognition. For most UK investors, the Silver Britannia is the more tax-efficient choice. See: Silver Coins vs Silver Bars.
Is the American Silver Eagle a good investment for UK buyers?
The Silver Eagle offers excellent liquidity and is recognised by dealers worldwide, making it easy to buy and sell. However, UK investors should note it is subject to VAT on purchase and potential CGT on gains, unlike CGT-free British legal tender silver coins. It suits collectors and investors who specifically value its American heritage or global recognition. Read: How to Invest in Silver for Beginners.
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