The 1996 Proof Silver Eagle was issued by the United States Mint as the collector version of the one ounce silver bullion coin. Featuring the classic Walking Liberty design by Adolph A. Weinman on the obverse and a heraldic eagle on the reverse, the coins had come to represent one of the Mint's most popular annual offerings.
The coins were sold during by the US Mint directly to collectors during the year of issue. The offering was limited to 500,000 coins, priced at $23 each. The coins were packaged in protective plastic capsules, inner velvet lined cases, and an outer cardboard box. Each coin was accompanied by a certificate of authenticity signed by Mint Director Philip N. Diehl.
All coins were struck at the Philadelphia Mint and bore the "P" mint mark. The cameo proof finish was accomplished by striking the coins multiple times with specially prepared dies. Raised deign elements and lettering appear frosty white, while the background fields appear mirrored black. This deep cameo style for proofs was standard for the series.
Following the issuance of the important rarity in the previous year, collector interest in the Proof Silver Eagle increased. The entire maximum authorized mintage was sold out with a final mintage of 498,293 after adjustments.
The price of silver slipped below the key $5.00 level during 1996. After opening the year at $5.16 per ounce, the closing price on December 31, 1996 was $4.80.
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US $83.99
