I want to add an American silver eagle to my collection. Being one that does not collect in mint/proof sets and only does circulated coinage, I have some questions. Will proof like coins coming in mint packaging yellow or ton like most other coinage? I was considering a 1988 (the year I was born) or should I get a newer one like a 2007 (the year I graduated highschool). Does getting the 2007 over the 1988 differ in design or again toning? I just want to get the one that will suit me the best and be an ideal representation of the ASE exactly as it came from the mint. Any thoughts are appreciated.
These tone over time, but in the proper storage, you can slow down the process. I have 1987 ASE's that are still blast white like they were from the mint. There's really no difference between a 1987 and a 2007 except the date they were minted, each are 1oz of silver.
One thing that some report with ASEs is the development of "milk spots" over time. I have not had this issue with mine but am careful with storage. If you go for a 2007, I would suggest the 2007W Burnished ASE instead of the proof. It has a nice satin finish and a much lower mintage than the proof of that same year. You can likely get one for around $40 or less, whereas the 2007 proof will run you around $65+. TC
Well I went ahead and pulled the trigger. Bought my last au/bu merc for my 41-45 pds set. Also picked up a 1988 ASE with coa in original mint box.
Was going to point out, the recent 2012 ASE set would have been a good buy. Not necessarily for resell but because its new and it does offer a special ASE.
