The production location for the 2001 Proof Silver Eagle was changed from the prior year, and this fact did not escape the notice of collectors. After having been struck at the Philadelphia Mint for the past eight years, production was changed to the West Point Mint. Accordingly, the coins would carry the esteemed "W" mint mark.
The last time this mint mark had appeared on a proof Silver Eagle had been a unique occasion. To celebrate the 10th anniversary of the series, the Untied States Mint had offered a special 4 coin proof set of Gold Eagles that included a bonus 1995-W Proof Silver Eagle. Since the regular Silver Eagle proof coin carried the "P" mint mark, the "W" mint marked coin included in the set became an incredible rarity.
Starting this year, all American Gold, Silver, and Platinum Eagles would be struck at the West Point Mint. The change was prompted by a modernization program carried out by the United States Mint. Since higher collector interest was anticipated, the maximum mintage for the 2001-W Proof Silver Eagle was set at 750,000 coins.
A sell out of the entire amount was achieved. The final mintage for the coin following adjustments was 746,398. Each subsequent year, regular issue proof eagles would be struck at West Point.
During 2001, the price of silver began the year at $4.59 per ounce and ended the year just a few cents lower at $4.52 per ounce.
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 US Mint Silver Dollar 2001 American Eagle PROOF Coin Bullion $1 w/Box+COA  US $39.56
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 2001-P American Silver Eagle PCGS PR69DCAM ''STUNNING'' US $73.00
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 2001 American Eagle Silver Proof Coin US $36.00
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