The 2012-W American Silver Eagle Burnished coin holds a special place in the world of coin collecting. Known for its beautiful design and quality, this coin was minted at West Point and stands out as a favorite among collectors and investors alike. Let’s dive into its background, unique design, and current market value, so you’ll have a complete understanding of what makes this coin desirable.
Background of the 2012-W American Silver Eagle Burnished Coin
Following the highly successful release of the 2011 25th Anniversary American Silver Eagle Set, the U.S. Mint continued to offer unique American Silver Eagle options in 2012. These options included five American Silver Eagle coins. Out of these, the 2012-W American Silver Eagle Burnished coin, also known as the Uncirculated Burnished coin, was aimed specifically at collectors and carried a small premium over the regular bullion version.
The U.S. Mint initially released this coin on August 2, 2012, as a standalone product priced at $45.95. It was later included in the 2012 United States Mint Annual Uncirculated Dollar Coin Set, which also featured four Presidential Dollars and a Native American Dollar. By the end of its release, the 2012-W Burnished Silver Eagle had a total mintage of 226,120 coins.
Unique Design Features
Obverse Design
The obverse (front) of the 2012-W Silver Eagle Burnished coin displays a powerful image of Lady Liberty created by artist Adolph A. Weinman. Lady Liberty is shown walking confidently toward the sunrise, wrapped in an American flag and holding branches symbolizing American strength and honor. The design also includes the year “2012” at the bottom, with the phrase “IN GOD WE TRUST” to the right. This striking artwork is inspired by the famous “The Sower” design, originally seen on French coins.
Reverse Design
The reverse (back) of the coin features the Heraldic Eagle, designed by John Mercanti, former Chief Engraver of the U.S. Mint. The eagle holds a banner with the motto “E PLURIBUS UNUM” and is surrounded by a set of 13 stars representing the original American colonies. This patriotic imagery is further emphasized by inscriptions like “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and “1 OZ. FINE SILVER ONE DOLLAR” at the bottom. The “W” mintmark, signifying West Point, appears beneath the eagle’s left wing.
Coin Specifications and Market Value
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Year of Issue | 2012 |
| Mintmark | W (West Point) |
| Mintage | 226,120 |
| Alloy | .999 Silver |
| Weight | 31.1 grams |
| Diameter | 40.6 mm |
| Edge | Reeded |
| Obverse Designer | Adolph A. Weinman |
| Reverse Designer | John M. Mercanti |
The 2012-W Burnished Silver Eagle has maintained its value over the years and typically sells in the range of $45–$90, depending on its quality and certification status. Coins graded as MS69 or MS70 are considered high-quality and can fetch prices at the higher end of this range, especially if certified by PCGS or NGC.
Noteworthy Market Listings and Values
In recent online auctions, prices for the 2012-W Burnished Silver Eagle vary based on quality and grading:
- PCGS MS70: $46.95 to $92.95
- NGC MS70: Around $45 to $61
These prices reflect the coin’s value as a collector’s item, with certified versions in top grades being the most sought after.
Why Collectors Value the 2012-W American Silver Eagle Burnished Coin
The 2012-W Burnished Silver Eagle stands out due to its unique burnished (or matte) finish, which gives the coin a distinct, satin-like appearance. This finish is achieved by using specially treated blanks, setting the coin apart from the shiny bullion versions intended mainly for investment. Since this coin was only minted at West Point, the “W” mintmark makes it even more special and collectible.
Conclusion
The 2012-W American Silver Eagle Burnished coin is a treasure for collectors due to its elegant design, historical significance, and unique burnished finish. This coin remains a valuable piece, especially when graded in top conditions by reputable certification services. With its classic designs by Weinman and Mercanti, this coin continues to capture the hearts of those who appreciate both artistry and history. For those looking to invest in or collect American Silver Eagles, the 2012-W Burnished coin represents a high-quality, affordable option with lasting appeal.
FAQ’s
What makes the 2012-W Burnished American Silver Eagle special?
The 2012-W Burnished American Silver Eagle is a collector’s edition with a unique burnished finish, produced specifically for collectors rather than investors. Its limited mintage and West Point “W” mintmark make it especially valuable.
How does the 2012-W Burnished Silver Eagle differ from the regular bullion version?
Unlike standard bullion coins, the burnished version has a matte-like finish and carries the West Point “W” mintmark. This gives it a unique appearance and appeal among collectors.
What is the typical value range for a 2012-W Burnished Silver Eagle in top condition?
In certified grades of MS69 or MS70, prices generally range from around $46 to over $90 depending on market demand and grading specifics, especially for high-quality examples with special labels.