Description
Design of the 2008 Silver Eagle
The obverse of the 2008 Silver Eagle has a variation on the original design by Adolph Weinman. The Liberty is extending her right arm to the left side of the coin in a welcoming gesture. In her left arm, she holds a large olive branch, which symbolizes a desire for peace. Her body’s weight is upon her right foot while her left one extends behind her. Under her right foot, the date, “2008,” is inscribed horizontally, not following the rim of the coin. To her left, the sun rises, partially obscured, with rays emanating from it. Beside the goddess’s left leg is America’s motto, “IN GOD WE TRUST.” Extending across the rim of the coin covering just more than half of it is the word, “LIBERTY.”
On the reverse, an eagle that harks back to the Great Seal of the United States appears with spread wings. Covering its body is the shield that it guards, representing the nation. Its left talon holds arrows, which symbolizes America’s willingness to fight for the values that it holds dear, while its left one holds an olive branch, symbolizing a preference for peace. From its beak, a ribbon extends to both sides. The part of the ribbon extending to the left bears the words, “E PLURIBUS,” while the part that goes to the right, “UNUM,” completes the phrase from the Great Seal. Two sets of wording spread across the rim. On the top half are the words, “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” while the bottom provides key information for stackers: “1 OZ. FINE SILVER ~ ONE DOLLAR.” Under the talon holding the arrows are the initials, “JM,” which stand for John Mercanti, who designed the reverse.
This label encased with this 2008 Silver Eagle provides basic information at the top. The first line identifies the year of mintage and the type of coin, reading, “2008 EAGLE S$1.” The next line has the grade in bold: “MS 70.” Under that, there are a certification and bar number, which the grading company, NGC (Numismatic Guarantee Corporation), provides so that owners and potential owners can verify the authenticity not only of the coin but also of the grade. The NGC logo appears at the bottom. A holographic image adorns the reverse of the label.
Why add this 2008 Silver Eagle to your collection?
This 2008 Silver Eagle received a perfect grade from NGC, making it an ideal example of the world’s best known bullion coin. Manufactured in Philadelphia, this coin contains 31.07 g of silver with a .999 fineness. The edge of the coin is reeded. Slightly over 20.5 million of these coins were minted in 2008. The coin’s large diameter, 40.6 mm, makes it easy for just about anyone to enjoy the full beauty of the coin. This coin is ideal for collectors who are looking to add to their full sets of Silver Eagles or for anyone who just wants a single perfect coin.
