Has Anyone Else Snagged the US Army Silver Eagle? My Collector’s Confession

I’ve been collecting coins for years, and I’ll be honest—I hadn’t ordered from the US Mint in forever. Their prices always seemed high, and the designs didn’t always speak to me. But when that 250th Anniversary US Army Silver Eagle appeared with its special privy mark? I caved immediately. It vanished in under a day, and somehow my finger clicked “buy” before my brain caught up. Let me walk you through this release and why it got me excited again.

The Irresistible Pull of Privy Marks

Privy marks are my collecting kryptonite. They’re like tiny hidden signatures that transform ordinary coins into something special, and this Army-themed one completely hooked me. My collection already holds the 2020 v75 privy ASE and the 2024 star privy, and I’m counting down to the 2025 flying eagle release. What sets this Army Eagle apart? Beyond the military connection, it’s that rush of exclusivity. That miniature mark made it irresistible. I’m definitely grabbing the Navy and Marine Corps versions later this year to complete the set—though I’m still puzzling over what exactly a “laser privy mark” looks like!

Pricing and Market Realities

Let’s get real about cost. Dropping nearly $40 on a single Silver Eagle from the Mint stings when dealers like JM Bullion offer regular ASEs cheaper. But here’s what I’ve learned: with limited releases like this, buying direct often saves money and regret later. I still kick myself for missing the 2021 Morgans and Peaces during those website meltdowns. This time, the Mint’s one-per-household rule actually helped collectors. Hesitate? You’ll likely pay double on eBay. My rule: if a coin speaks to you, buy it when you see it—your future self might thank you.

Collecting Insights and Strategies

Building a meaningful privy mark collection takes thought. Focus on themes you genuinely connect with—for me, military commemoratives—to avoid filling drawers with impulse buys. Set up Mint alerts too; I nearly missed this Army Eagle announcement. For standout pieces like this, I’m considering grading one (PCGS or NGC MS-69) to display alongside my 2024 star privy, while keeping a raw coin for my album. Here’s what works for me:

• Do move quickly on limited editions—they’re gone in hours
• Don’t skip foreign coins; Australia and Canada have mastered privy marks for decades
• Do mix Mint purchases with bullion deals to balance costs
• Don’t chase every new gimmick; some privy marks fade like the Grant commemorative half dollar

Historical Context and Numismatic Gems

Digging into privy mark history fascinated me. They’re not new—remember George H. Lovett’s tokens or early commemoratives like the Missouri 2*4 (24th state) and Alabama 2×2 (22nd state)? Many were raised on early strikes then removed later, creating multiple varieties. While it’s smart marketing, it adds delicious depth to collecting. Knowing this history helps explain why modern twists like the Army Eagle ignite such passion. If you’re starting out, grab a reference book on privy marks—they’re treasure maps for spotting what might matter tomorrow.

This whole adventure reminded me why I collect coins: where else do history, artistry, and smart hunting collide? Yes, the Army Eagle cost more than a regular ASE, but for a coin with this much personality? Worth every penny. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’ve got a Navy release to prepare for—send good vibes!