FREE: 2003 American Silver Eagle Liberty Silver Dollar 1 oz. .999 Fine Silver US Mint in Airtite Capsule

The American Silver Eagle: A Brief Introduction
The **American Silver Eagle** is a stunning coin minted by the United States since 1986. It boasts a face value of $1, but its true value lies in its **one troy ounce of fine silver** (31.103 grams) with a purity of **99.9%**. These coins come in both **Mint** and **Proof** strikes, appealing to collectors and bullion investors.

### The Best Counterfeits Are Magnetic
Picture this: You're handed a Silver Eagle that appears flawless—the strike, the design, everything. But something feels off. Here's where the magic (or rather, magnetism) happens. A genuine Silver Eagle is **not magnetic** due to its high silver content. However, the best counterfeits are often made of materials that are **extremely magnetic**. So, grab a magnet and put it to the test! If the coin sticks, it's likely a fake¹.

### Weight and Diameter: The Telltale Signs
1. **Weigh It**: A legitimate Silver Eagle should weigh exactly **1 Troy Ounce** (31.103 grams). If it's over or under, raise an eyebrow—it might be a counterfeit.
2. **Measure It**: The coin's diameter should be precisely **40.6 millimeters (mm)**. Any deviation from this measurement is cause for suspicion⁴.

### Visual Inspection: Imperfections and Colors
1. **Edges and Raised Portions**: Examine the edges closely. Counterfeit Silver Eagles are often made with cheaper metals (like copper) and coated with a thin layer of silver. Look for imperfections or inconsistencies.
2. **Light Test**: Rotate the coin in direct light. Sometimes, alternative colors beneath the silver coating become visible. Legitimate coins exhibit consistent color and shine⁵.

### The V75 Privy Mark
In recent years, the US Mint introduced the **V75 privy mark** on Silver Eagles to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the end of World War II. Counterfeiters struggle to replicate this intricate feature. So, if you spot a V75 privy mark, you're likely holding the real deal.