Burnished Eagles

The most uncommon Silver Eagle coin variety is the burnished coin. Burnished American Eagles were in high demand from the moment they were first made available by the U.S. Mint in 2006 to commemorate the mint's 20th anniversary. However, uncirculated burnished Silver Eagles are particularly rare and challenging because the mint only produces a small number yearly.

Compared to bullion Eagles, Silver Eagles with a burnished polish appear less glossy and matte. In addition, some numismatists think burnishing makes the design more robust and long-lasting—the rounds polish before being struck to produce a distinctive burnished appearance.

The mint mark "W," which identifies the West Point Mint in New York, where a small quantity of these valuable coins is minted yearly, is found on every polished American Eagle coin.