To reduce stockpiles of silver, the United States Treasury began issuing one-ounce silver bullion coins in 1986.  In 2002, the program was extended beyond the original silver stockpiles, and the Secretary of the Treasury was granted the authority to purchase silver in order to continue minting American Silver Eagles.   The obverse of the Silver Eagle was chosen as a direct resurrection of Adolph Weinman's Walking Liberty half dollar design.  It depicts the figure of Lady Liberty, who, in Weinman's words, is "progressing in full stride toward the dawn of a new day, carrying branches of laurel and oak, symbolic of civil and military glory." A modification was made to the design to place Weinman's initials on the hem of Lady Liberty's gown. The reverse, sculpted by John Mercanti and inspired by the Great Seal of the United States, features an eagle holding an olive branch and arrows.

Silver Eagle Dollars have been minted at the Philadelphia, San Francisco, and West Point Mints.  The Bullion American Eagle coin was minted in San Francisco from 1986-1998, Philadelphia (1999-2000), and West Point (1999-Date).  Proof Silver Eagle coins have been issued from the San Francisco Mint (1986-1992), Philadelphia Mint (1993-2000), and West Point Mint (2001-Date).  In 2006 the U.S. Mint began producing special uncirculated bullion coins for collectors.  These bullion coins are known for their unique "burnished" finish.  Burnished Silver Eagles have only been made at the West Point Mint.  

Dates Composition Weight Diameter Edge 1986-Date 99.93% Silver 0.07% Copper 31.1 grams 40.6mm Reeded