Proof silver Eagles set for Nov. 19

There will be proof silver American Eagles in 2010.

After last year's unfortunate lapse in production, the U.S. Mint will bring the coin back, with sales opening Nov. 19.

Price will $45.95, up significantly because of the rapidly rising price of bullion.

Order limitation will be 100 per household, a strong indication that the Mint feels it will be able to meet demand from all comers. Though when asked if he could provide a number for what the maximum production might be, Deputy Director of the U.S. Mint Andrew Brunhart, replied Oct. 4, "I can’t do that. It's all dependent upon the current situation of being off allocation for a while longer.

Allocation refers to the Mint's system of rationing the supply of the bullion American Eagle silver coins. Rationing ceased with a Sept. 3 notice to authorized purchasers, freeing up planchets for proof production.

Deliveries of the 2010 proof silver Eagles will begin Dec. 1.

Though the planchet shortage is easing, three products will not be produced this year, Brunhart said, because supplies are still not ample. These products are the one-ounce uncirculated "W" mintmark silver Eagle, the one-ounce uncirculated "W" mintmarked gold American Eagle and the annual uncirculated dollar coin set. While some collectors will be disappointed with this, most will feel that the Mint made the right choice in focusing on producing the proof coins.

Congratulations to the U.S. Mint for bringing back the proof silver American Eagle coin in time for it to have a 2010 date..

Now wait 10 seconds before the complaints begin about the new higher price.