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Engelhard “American Prospector” Silver Round (1985)
$114.99
2 in stock
Description
| Mint Mark | None (private mint issue) |
|---|---|
| VB ID | VB-ENG-PROS-1985-001 |
| Item | Engelhard "American Prospector" Silver Round |
| Mint | Engelhard Corporation |
| Year of issue | 1985 |
| Composition | .999+ Fine Silver |
| Weight | 1 Troy Ounce (31.103 grams) |
| Size | 39 mm (approx.) diameter |
| Thickness | 2.8 mm (approx.) |
| Mint series | American Prospector Series |
| Edge | Reeded |
| Internal Notes | This round is part of the popular Engelhard “American Prospector” bullion series, first issued in 1982 by Engelhard Corporation; a renowned U.S. precious metals refiner. The 1985 edition features a front-facing prospector panning for gold in a stream, marked “U.S.A.” and the date “1985.” The reverse bears a bold American bald eagle landing with a branch and arrows, encircled by the inscription “ENGELHARD / ONE TROY OUNCE 999+ FINE SILVER.” The edge is fully reeded, and no mint mark is present, as was typical for Engelhard’s private bullion issues. Engelhard ceased production of these silver rounds in 1988, making them highly collectible today. This particular piece shows sharp detail and luster, suggesting minimal handling and well-preserved condition. |
| Cited Sources | Engelhard Corporation archives AllEngelhard.com (bullion history and collector database) Whitman Guide to Silver Bullion Rounds (2023 Edition) Numista ID #5097 (Engelhard Prospector series coin page) |
| Text Obverse: | U.S.A./1985/THE AMERICAN PROSPECTOR |
| Text Reverse | ENGELHARD/ONE TROY OUNCE 999+ FINE SILVER |
| Text Edge | Reeded (no text) |
Obverse Description:
The obverse depicts a rugged prospector kneeling in shallow water, panning for gold. He wears a wide-brimmed hat, rolled sleeves, and a beard, symbolizing the spirit of the 19th-century American gold rush. To his left is the inscription “U.S.A.”, and to the right, the year “1985”. Below the scene, following the lower curve of the rim, is the legend “THE AMERICAN PROSPECTOR”. A fine ring of beading encircles the entire rim of the obverse.
Reverse Description:
The reverse features a detailed bald eagle descending with wings spread wide. The eagle holds an olive branch and arrows in its talons, classic emblems of peace and strength. The background includes an American flag and radiant rays, reinforcing the patriotic theme. Encircling the eagle are inscriptions:
-
At the top: “ENGELHARD”
-
At the bottom: “ONE TROY OUNCE 999+ FINE SILVER”
This side is also bordered by a dotted beaded rim matching the obverse.
Edge Description:
The edge is reeded, consisting of fine, evenly spaced vertical grooves typical of bullion rounds. These reeded edges help deter counterfeiting and provide a tactile security feature.
