Silver News

Silver American Eagle Bullion Coin Sales Soar in 2004

(Washington, D.C. - January 11, 2005) Sales of Silver American Eagle Bullion coins posted their third best year last year since the program was launched; over 9.6 million coins were sold in 2004. In 1987 11.4 million Silver Eagles were sold and in 2002, 10.5 million were sold. In December of 2004 alone, over 2.6 million Silver American Eagle coins were sold, according to the United States Mint.

"The popularity of this investment-grade coin continues to grow, demonstrating once again silver's unique roles as an investment vehicle, an important industrial metal, as well as being prized for its beauty and luster in jewelry and tableware," stated Michael DiRienzo, Executive Director of the Silver Institute.

Congressionally authorized American Eagle Bullion coins provide investors with a convenient and cost-effective way to add physical silver to their investment portfolios. Since their launch in 1986, Silver American Eagles have become the leading silver bullion coin investment product worldwide.

For the period 2000-2004, 3.8 percent of total silver demand was attributed to coins and medals.

The Silver Institute is a nonprofit international industry association headquartered in Washington, D.C. Established in 1971, the Institute serves as the industry's voice in increasing public understanding of the value and many uses of silver.

For Further Information Contact:

Mike DiRienzo
The Silver Institute
1200 G Street, N.W., Suite 800
Washington, D.C. 20005
Tel: (202) 835-0185
Fax: (202) 835-0155