By Charles Morgan and Hubert Walker for CoinWeek Notes….
Even though silver spot prices retreated in 1989, American Silver Eagle bullion and Proof sales increased slightly that year. For the Proof version, the United States Mint held firm with its $23 USD issue price ($57.93 in adjusted 2024 dollars).
### Insights into the 1989-S American Silver Eagle Proof Coin
The certified population of 1989-S American Silver Eagles stands at 49,154 coins (7.96% of the total mintage), with 78.6% graded PR69 DCAM/UCAM. This data point should confirm that the 1989-S is a very well-made coin. This is reinforced by the fact that the 1989-S is, traditionally, the least expensive Silver Eagle from the 1980s in “Perfect 70”.
Over the past decade, the certified population has seen a notable increase, emphasizing the consistent interest in this coin among collectors.
### Market Data and Noteworthy Specimens
#### Top Population
– **PCGS PR70DCAM:** eBay – M.Barr Coins, April 8, 2024 – $224.02. *Seller may use the same image for multiple sales*.
– **NGC PF70UCAM #6084557-025:** eBay – KNH Collectibles, April 7, 2024 – $325. *John Mercanti-signed label*.
– **PCGS PR70DCAM #33753581:** eBay – Bullion Express, April 4, 2024 – $145.50.
– **NGC PF70UCAM #4394805-026:** Stack’s Bowers, April 3, 2024, Lot 13525 – $192.
– **PCGS PR70DCAM #27231852:** eBay – FirstModernCoins, March 29, 2024 – $185.
Investors and collectors have shown a continuous interest in the 1989-S American Silver Eagle, as evidenced by the consistent prices these specimens are able to command on the market.
### Design
**Obverse:**
Sculptor Adolph A. Weinman’s Lady Liberty is a representation of freedom and prosperity, symbolized by the laurel and oak branches she holds. The detailed design of Liberty striding confidently makes this coin a stand out in the American numismatic collection.
**Reverse:**
Designed by John M. Mercanti, the Heraldic Eagle on the reverse of the 1989-S American Silver Eagle is a symbol of strength and unity. The intricate details of the eagle clutching the ribbon with the motto “E PLURIBUS UNUM” make this coin a favorite among collectors.
### Coin Specifications
– **Year Of Issue:** 1989
– **Denomination:** One Dollar (USD)
– **Mint Mark:** S (San Francisco)
– **Mintage:** 617,694
– **Alloy:** 99.9% silver
– **Weight:** 31.1 g
– **Diameter:** 40.6 mm
– **Edge:** Reeded
– **OBV Designer:** Adolph A. Weinman
– **REV Designer:** John M. Mercanti
Overall, the 1989-S American Silver Eagle Proof coin continues to be a sought-after piece in the numismatic world, with its design, history, and consistent market value making it a valuable addition to any collection.