Well The US Mint has decided to kick off their year by releasing the 2018 Proof version of the evergreen American eagle silver coin.

The design has remained unaltered since it's debut in 1986. Featuring Adolph A. Weinman’s depiction of Liberty astride, draped in the stars and stripes of the American flag. Her right hand outstretched to the rising sun, symbolising a bright and prosperous future. All the while cradling branches of laurel and oak in her left arm, symbolising wisdom and prosperity. The windswept figure of Liberty is also wearing a Phrygian cap to symbolise her pursuit of liberty and freedom so central to the American ideal.

2018 American Silver Eagle Coin

The reverse in turn features former US Mint Sculptor-Engraver John Mercanti’s heraldic depiction of the Great Seal of The United States. The eagle, with it's wings spread, grasps an olive branch in the right talon and a bundle of arrows in the left. A shield covers it's breast with thirteen five-pointed stars above it's head.

The coins were struck at the West Point mint, as indicated by the “W” mint mark on the reverse of the coin. Each coin is shipped encapsulated and packaged in a satin-lined blue velvet presentation case along with a Certificate of Authenticity.

2018 Proof American Silver Eagle Coin in Box

The coins are struck from .999 fine silver and tip the scales at precisely 1 troy oz(31.103 grams) of fine silver. Each proof round measures 40.6 mm(1.598 inches) in diameter and is finished with a reeded edge.

The coins are now available to order directly from the US Mint website, as of January 4th 2018, at a price of $55.95 per coin. This represents a $2 price increase over the 2017 release price of $53.95 for the 2017 proof American Silver Eagle. As is customary for this coin, there is no order or product limit set. As such the final mintage figure will be determined by market demand for the coin throughout the year.