2021 Silver Eagle Type 1 vs Type 2: Errors & Value

The 2021 American Silver Eagle is a silver coin released in the first year that introduced a major design change in the series. Collectors who’ve followed the series since its debut in 1986 saw something new: a transition from the classic reverse to a fresh redesign mid-year. The coin has two separate types—2021 Silver Eagle Type 1 and 2021 Silver Eagle Type 2.

In this guide, we’ll walk through what makes the 2021 issues so unique, which versions are the most desirable, how much a 2021 Silver is worth, and much more. 

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Specifications and Features of the 2021 Eagle

The 2021 American Silver Eagle coin stands out not only for its iconic imagery but also for its precise technical specifications. It contains one troy ounce of .999 fine silver, with a diameter of 40.6 mm and a weight of 31.103 grams. Its reeded edge and $1 face value are standard across the Eagle series, but what makes the 2021 edition particularly important is the change in reverse design.

The obverse of both 2021 Silver Eagle Type 1 and Type 2 versions features the classic Walking Liberty design by Adolph A. Weinman—originally seen on half dollars from 1916 to 1947. However, in the 2021 Type 2 Silver Eagle version, subtle modifications were made for accuracy and clarity, including the re-engraving of Weinman’s initials “AW.” The reverse of the 1 version continues to display John Mercanti’s heraldic eagle, while the 2nd reverse shows Emily Damstra’s depiction of a bald eagle landing with an oak branch.

Technical Summary:

Why 2021 Was a Big Year for the American Eagle

The 2021 American Silver Eagle marks the 35th anniversary of the series. Introduced by the U.S. Mint in 1986, the American Silver quickly became a valuable possession for investors and collectors. But the year 2021 changed the game by introducing two versions of the coin:

• Type 1: Features the original heraldic eagle reverse, designed by John Mercanti.

• Type 2: Debuted mid-year with a brand new reverse featuring a flying eagle landing, created by artist Emily Damstra.

That means the 2021 release gave collectors a chance to own both a classic and a modern redesign in the same year—a rarity for any coin series.

2021 Silver Eagle Type 1 vs Type 2: What’s the Difference?

If you’re trying to tell 2021 Eagle Type 1 and Type 2 apart, look at the reverse. Type 1 carries the original shielded eagle with arrows and olive branch. It’s formal, symmetrical, and familiar. Type 2 brings something entirely different—a dynamic eagle mid-landing, clutching an oak branch.

Other differences include:

• Edge security enhancements on the 2 for added anti-counterfeiting.

• Minor font and spacing changes on the inscriptions.

• Slight tweaks to Liberty’s portrait, improving detail.

This split design year gave rise to new collector sets like the 2021 Reverse Proof Silver Set, which included both designs in reverse proof finish.

2021 Silver Eagle Value: What Are They Worth?

So, how much is a 2021 Eagle worth? The answer depends on the type, mint, condition, and whether the coin has a special strike like proof or MS70.

Here’s a general idea of the value range (as of mid-2025 market data):

Coins graded MS70 by NGC, PCGS, or ANACS carry the highest premiums, especially for first strike or early release labels. For example, 2021 Silver Eagle MS70 Type 2 First Strike coins regularly sell for over $100 depending on demand and certification.

Known Errors & Varieties in 2021 American Silver Coins

• Struck-Through Errors. Some 2021 Eagles were struck with foreign objects or debris (such as metal shavings or cloth fibers) on the die, leaving visible impressions on the coin's surface. These are usually one-off minting mistakes and can raise value depending on the visibility and location of the error.

• Wrong Planchet Errors (Extremely Rare). There is always a small chance in large mintage years like 2021 that a Silver was struck on a planchet intended for another coin (e.g., an ASE struck on a gold blank or clad planchet). These are very rare and usually authenticated by major grading services.

• Struck on Incomplete Planchet. Some 2021 coins may have been struck on an incomplete or clipped planchet, resulting in an irregular coin shape. These errors are dramatic and usually fetch a premium depending on condition and visibility.

2021 Emergency Production Silver Eagles

While not a true mint error, these are of high interest:

• Struck at Philadelphia or San Francisco (without mint mark) due to West Point’s temporary shutdown.

• Labeled as “Emergency Issue” or “Emergency Production” by PCGS/NGC.

• Can include 2021 Type 1 Silver graded MS70 or MS69.

If you are fond of modern coins, perhaps you want to read the article about 2022 Quarter Errors That Could Make You Rich and how to hunt for them.

2021 MS70 Silver Eagle and First Strike: What It Means

When a coin is graded MS70, it means it’s in perfect condition—no scratches, no contact marks, fully struck. Add in labels like “First Strike” or “First Day of Issue,” and the price can double.

For example:

• 2021 MS70 Silver Type 1 – Clean design, high demand.

• 2021 Silver Type 2 MS70 First Strike – More limited, rising in popularity.

• 2021 W Silver MS70 – Scarcer and commands strong prices.

Even ANACS MS70 Silver Eagle 2021 Type 2 coins can hold solid value, often coming in at slightly lower price points than PCGS/NGC equivalents.

The coins are commonly sold in:

• Individual plastic flips

• Tubes of 20 coins

• Monster boxes with 500 coins per green box

Collectors who buy in bulk often look for sealed tubes or boxes from trusted dealers. 2021 1 oz American Eagle coins sealed in mint packaging retain better resale value, especially if unopened.

Where to Find or Sell 2021 American Silver Eagles

Whether you're buying a 2021 American coin to complete your collection or selling a high-grade MS70 for profit, knowing where to go matters. Here's where to look:

• Trusted Bullion Retailers. Major dealers like APMEX, JM Bullion, SD Bullion, and Bullion Exchanges carry a wide variety of 2021 Silver Eagles. These sites often let you choose coins graded by PCGS, NGC, or ANACS, and offer volume discounts.

• eBay and Other Online Marketplaces. eBay is a huge platform for both buyers and sellers. You’ll find listings for nearly every version, like raw 2021 Type 1 silver eagles or certified MS70s and reverse proofs. Filter by mint mark, condition, or certification. When selling, always provide high-quality photos, mention the grading service, and include details like “2021 Silver Eagle MS70 Type 2” or “2021-W Reverse Proof” to attract search traffic.

• Auction houses like Heritage Auctions, GreatCollections, and Stack’s Bowers attract serious collectors. These venues can get you premium prices, especially for graded examples.

• Coin Shows and Local Dealers. Coin shows often have multiple dealers specializing in recent releases like the 2021 Silver Eagle Type 1 and Type 2. Some local coin shops also buy or trade 2021 silver eagles, but prices may be lower than online due to overhead costs.

• Facebook Collector Groups & Reddit. Communities like r/coins and r/Silverbugs have active buy/sell/trade threads. Facebook groups focused on American Eagles also offer direct peer-to-peer transactions—just be careful, and use PayPal Goods & Services for protection.

Even though the 2021 American Silver Eagle was struck in huge numbers, a surprising variety of errors and unusual production details make it worth a closer look. Whether it’s a misstrike, die chip, or emergency issue, these quirks turn a standard bullion coin into a collectible.

How to Store and Preserve Your Silver Eagles

Whether you’ve got a 2021 silver eagle MS70 or a circulated 2021 American Eagle silver dollar, proper care makes a big difference in preserving both aesthetic appeal and value. Silver, while durable, is reactive to the environment, especially air and moisture. That’s why even uncirculated or proof coins can tarnish or spot if stored incorrectly.

• Handle with Care. Never touch your 2021 silver eagle type 1 or 2021 silver eagle type 2 coins with bare fingers. The oils from your skin can cause long-term damage. Always use cotton gloves or handle coins by the edge.

• Use Protective Storage. Place individual coins in airtight containers like capsules or Mylar flips. Slabs from third-party graders like PCGS, NGC, or ANACS offer top-tier protection, especially for certified pieces like the 2021 silver MS70 type 2 or 2021 W silver eagle MS70 editions.

• For bulk storage, U.S. Mint tubes or monster boxes are common, especially if you’re purchasing in quantity. These are often available when buying items such as the American Eagle 2021 One Ounce Silver Reverse Proof Two-Coin Set Designer Edition.

• Avoid Humidity and Air Exposure. Keep your coins in a dry, climate-controlled environment. A dehumidifier or silica gel packets in your storage area can help prevent oxidation and tarnish. Even reverse proof coins from the 2021 reverse proof silver eagle set can develop spots if exposed to moisture.

• Don’t Clean the Coin. Even if your coin develops toning or fingerprints, cleaning it is a bad idea. Abrasive materials and chemicals can cause micro-scratches or remove surface details, lowering the coin’s grade and reselling 2021 Silver Eagle type 1 and 2 value.

Whether your goal is to hold a full 2021 American Silver Eagle value set or maybe you have a rich collection of In God We Trust Quarters: 2022–2023, these steps will help ensure your collection stays in top shape

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