Silver Eagle Specifications
Technical details and investor-facing facts for Silver American Eagle coins from the U.S. Mint.
Technical Specifications
| Purity | .999 fine silver |
| Silver Content | 1.0000 troy ounce (31.103 grams) |
| Gross Weight | 31.103 grams |
| Diameter | 40.6 mm (1.598 inches) |
| Thickness | 2.98 mm (0.117 inches) |
| Face Value | $1 USD (U.S. legal tender) |
| Mint | United States Mint |
| Edge | Reeded |
| IRA Eligible | Yes |
The .999 Purity Standard
At .999 fineness, Silver American Eagles contain 99.9% pure silver with minimal alloys. This purity is guaranteed by the U.S. government.
- •Government guarantee: Weight, content, and purity backed by the United States
- •IRS compliance: Exceeds the .999 minimum fineness for Precious Metals IRAs
- •Global recognition: Accepted by dealers worldwide as authentic U.S. Mint product
- •Simple valuation: Silver content equals 1 troy ounce, making spot price calculations straightforward
Learn more about Silver Eagles at Monex Silver American Eagles
Type 1 vs Type 2 Silver Eagles
In 2021, the U.S. Mint introduced a new reverse design for the Silver Eagle. Both types share identical specifications:
Type 1 (1986-2021)
John Mercanti's heraldic eagle reverse with shield, olive branch, and arrows. The original design used for 35 years.
Type 2 (2021-present)
Emily Damstra's eagle in flight design with enhanced anti-counterfeiting features and modernized appearance.
Learn more about design differences at Monex Type 1 vs Type 2 Guide
U.S. Legal Tender Status
Silver American Eagles carry a $1 face value and are official United States legal tender. This government backing provides:
Authenticity Assurance
Produced by the U.S. Mint with strict quality controls and anti-counterfeiting measures.
Government Guarantee
Weight, content, and purity backed by the United States government.
Market Recognition
The most recognized silver coin in America, accepted by dealers worldwide.
IRA Preference
Many IRA custodians prefer Silver Eagles due to their familiar U.S. legal tender status.
IRA Eligibility
Silver American Eagles are specifically approved for Precious Metals IRAs. Key considerations:
- ✓.999 purity exceeds IRS minimum requirement
- ✓U.S. Mint origin satisfies IRS requirements
- ✓Must be held by an IRS-approved custodian and depository
- ✓Cannot be stored at home for IRA purposes
Note: This is general information, not tax or investment advice. Consult a qualified tax professional or IRA custodian for guidance specific to your situation.
Understanding Premium Drivers
Silver Eagles trade at a premium above the spot price of silver. Factors that influence premiums include:
U.S. Mint Production
Precision minting, quality control, and the costs of producing the iconic Walking Liberty design.
Distribution Chain
Authorized Purchaser margins and dealer margins fund the distribution network.
Market Demand
Strong demand for the official U.S. silver bullion coin supports premium levels.
Government Backing
U.S. legal tender status and government guarantee command value in the market.
View current Silver Eagle pricing at Monex Silver Eagle Price Charts
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purity of a Silver American Eagle?
Silver American Eagles are .999 fine silver, meaning they contain 99.9% pure silver. This purity is guaranteed by the U.S. government and exceeds the IRS minimum requirement for Precious Metals IRAs.
How much silver is in a Silver American Eagle?
Each Silver American Eagle contains exactly 1.0000 troy ounce (31.103 grams) of .999 fine silver. The weight, content, and purity are guaranteed by the United States Mint.
Is a Silver Eagle legal tender?
Yes, Silver American Eagles carry a $1 face value and are official U.S. legal tender. While the silver content is worth far more than face value, this legal tender status provides government backing and worldwide recognition.
Can I hold Silver Eagles in an IRA?
Yes, Silver American Eagles are specifically approved for Precious Metals IRAs by the IRS. Their .999 purity exceeds IRS requirements, and their status as U.S. legal tender makes them a preferred choice for IRA investors.
Why do Silver Eagles have a premium over spot price?
Premiums reflect U.S. Mint production costs, Authorized Purchaser margins, dealer margins, and strong market demand. Premiums typically range from 4-6% over spot under normal conditions but can expand during high demand periods.
What is the difference between Type 1 and Type 2 Silver Eagles?
Type 1 Silver Eagles (1986-2021) feature John Mercanti's heraldic eagle reverse design. Type 2 (2021-present) features Emily Damstra's new eagle design with enhanced anti-counterfeiting features. Both types have identical silver content and purity.
How do Silver Eagles compare to Canadian Maple Leafs?
Both are excellent 1 oz silver coins. Silver Eagles are .999 fine; Maple Leafs are .9999 fine. Eagles carry slightly higher premiums but have stronger liquidity in U.S. markets. Both are IRA-eligible.
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