The 1776 ~ 2026-W Proof Silver American Eagle was issued to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the United States, honoring the Nation’s founding with a special one-year Proof release. Struck by the United States Mint at the West Point Mint, this semiquincentennial issue features the dual date “1776 ~ 2026” and a commemorative Liberty Bell privy mark with the numeral “250.”

Semiquincentennial American Eagle Design

The obverse showcases Adolph A. Weinman’s celebrated Walking Liberty design, depicting Liberty in full stride, draped in the American flag and carrying branches of laurel and oak. For this historic issue, the United States Mint returned to its original historical assets to more closely reflect Weinman’s original vision, including the addition of his traditional artist mark. Inscriptions include “LIBERTY,” “IN GOD WE TRUST,” and “1776 ~ 2026.”

The reverse features the modern Type 2 American Eagle design introduced in 2021, showing an eagle approaching a landing with an oak branch in its talons—symbolizing strength, continuity, and renewal. Inscriptions include “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” “E PLURIBUS UNUM,” “1 OZ. FINE SILVER,” and “ONE DOLLAR.” Enhanced security elements include a reeded edge variation, and the coin bears the “W” mint mark on the reverse.

NGC Advance Releases – PF70 Ultra Cameo

This coin has been professionally certified and encapsulated by the :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0} (NGC) and awarded the highest possible grade of PF70 Ultra Cameo. It is housed in an official NGC Advance Releases™ label holder, denoting its early certification status.

NGC Advance Releases (AR) indicates that the coin was received by NGC for grading prior to the official U.S. Mint release date through an authorized Advance Releases submission program. This designation confirms early handling and certification but does not imply a difference in strike quality or mintage. AR labels are prized by collectors seeking early-availability pedigree and modern U.S. Mint prestige.

Collector Significance

Struck in 1 troy ounce of .999 fine silver with a Proof finish, this 1776 ~ 2026-W Silver American Eagle represents a landmark moment in modern U.S. coinage. Its one-year-only dual date, Liberty Bell “250” privy mark, enhanced security features, limited mintage, Advance Releases pedigree, and flawless PF70 certification make it a standout choice for elite Silver Eagle and semiquincentennial collections.

250th Anniversary Proof Silver Eagle 2026 Specifications