Typically in coins, first and last years tend to get bought up and hoarded usually making them some of the most common pieces in the long run
I'm personally not a fan of dealer seconds and pass around coins either that have already been picked through and prefer to roll the dice buying from the mint and possibly getting something perfect. I know for sure If I buy from a dealer that has it sitting on display ungraded, it's likely been looked at and determined not to be anything special or worthy of grading fee costs.
Oh, i usually try to get a few of each. I will prob wait and see if I can get a deal on a roll down the rd.
First and last years of a design are many times hoarded. So, usually not rare. However, I have purchased both unc and proof 2020 silver eagles. But the purchases had nothing to do with the year 2020.
I have a few that I bought earlier this year before spot and premiums went sky high. All bought after market, none from the mint.
I know dealers that sell for 3 over spot and some who sell 6 over, then I seen people asking 12-16 over.
Some of the 2021 ASE's will have the "old" reverse still. So everyone is instructed to rethink their above stated opinions.