The American Eagle one ounce silver coin program
In 1986, the United States Mint introduced the American Eagle one-ounce silver coin program, aimed at precious metal investors. The obverse of this coin features the classic “Walking Liberty” design by Adolph A. Weinman, a revered image first used on half-dollar coins from 1916 to 1947. The reverse side, created by United States Mint sculptor/engraver and later Chief Engraver John Mercanti, is distinguished by a superb rendering of a heraldic eagle. In addition to the bullion version, the Mint also produces Proof and Uncirculated finishes tailored for collectors.
To commemorate the 35th anniversary of the program, the United States Mint updated the design on the reverse side of the coin. Starting this year, the reverse showcases a new bald eagle design, created by artist Emily Damstra.
The new “Type 2” American Eagle silver design
The opportunity to design the reverse side of the American Eagle silver coin was a cherished occasion for Damstra, who has long admired the bald eagle as a symbol of the United States. As a student of natural history, she appreciated the bald eagle as a symbol rooted in nature, uniquely American, and imbued with values such as strength, majesty, dignity, and liberty. Its status as an endemic species of North America, along with its powerful visual symbolism, made the bird an inspiring subject for her work.
Damstra’s vision for the new design was to present the bald eagle in a way that would not only highlight its traditional symbolism but also convey additional traits such as diligence, cooperation, care, and protection. With these qualities in mind, she chose to depict the eagle in the act of nest-building. An oak branch was included in the design to represent the oak tree, America’s national tree, a symbol of strength.
To prepare for this task, Damstra conducted extensive research. She reviewed a wide array of previous American coin designs featuring eagles to ensure her depiction offered a fresh perspective. Her goal was to illustrate a unique pose that had not been seen before on an American coin. Additionally, she studied numerous photos and videos of bald eagles, using them as references to create initial sketches. One of these sketches evolved into the final design: a bald eagle landing on its nest while carrying an oak branch, complete with identifiable leaves.
Although Damstra initially questioned the accuracy of including leaves on the branch—since eagles typically build nests before oaks leaf out—further research revealed that eagles often add to or repair nests year-round. This insight affirmed the inclusion of leaves as both realistic and meaningful.
