2008 1 oz Silver American Eagle Burnished MS70 coin with 2007 Reverse

In 2006, the U.S. Mint released new “uncirculated” or “burnished” Gold, Silver, and Platinum American eagles. Struck on specially burnished blanks, the American Eagle Uncirculated Coins feature a finish similar to their bullion counterparts but carry the “W” mint mark reflecting their striking at the United States Mint at West Point. The American Eagle Gold and Silver Uncirculated Coins bear the same designs as their bullion and proof counterparts.

Between 2008 and 2007, the reverse design on Silver Eagles was slightly changed. There were 47,000 2008 Burnished Silver Eagles that were produced with the 2007 reverse design instead of the new 2008 design. The most notable difference you will see is that this coin does NOT feature a tail on the letter “U” and the dash between the words “Silver” and “One” will be shaped like a tilde, which was part of the 2007 reverse font. These coins have been highly sought after since they are the rarest burnished eagle coins.

For three years, the U.S. Mint released the Burnished Silver Eagles coins before canceling production of the coins in 2009 and 2010 as it diverted available blanks to the production of the bullion Silver Eagles which it was required by law at the time to strike to meet demand. In 2011, the Burnished production resumed and has been struck annually ever since.

What does Burnished mean? Burnish is a process of manufacturing. The U.S. Mint rolls silver planchettes (raw silver discs) in a drum filled with millions of tiny balls only 6mm. This process makes the coin smooth and removes imperfections. The coins come out with a stunning, matte-like finish. 

Coin Highlights:

• 2008 Silver American Eagle Burnished MS70 Coin with the 2007 reverse
• Graded in Perfect MS70 by NGC
• Hand-signed label by Ed Moy, 38th U.S. Mint Director
• Mintage: 47,000 coins were minted in 2008 with the 2007 reverse design
• Rarest of the burnished silver eagles