The 2013 West Point American Silver Eagle Two-Coin Set remains a highly sought-after item in the world of coin collecting, especially for enthusiasts of U.S. Mint releases.
This special edition set was created to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the West Point Mint, a key facility in the history of U.S. coin production.
Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a new buyer looking to understand the value of this set, this guide will break down its history, significance, and current market value.
The History Behind the 2013 West Point American Silver Eagle Set
The West Point Mint, established in 1938, has become one of the most significant mints in the U.S. Coin collecting community.
Though it did not officially gain mint status until 1988, the West Point Mint produced several notable coins before then. It also became a crucial site for the production of American Silver Eagles beginning in the 1990s.
To mark the 75th anniversary of this facility, the U.S. Mint released a two-coin set in 2013, making it a special edition in the American Silver Eagle series.
The two coins featured in this set are:
- 2013-W American Silver Eagle Enhanced Uncirculated Coin
- 2013-W American Silver Eagle Reverse Proof Coin
These coins are notable not just for their high-quality designs but also for the unique finishes. The Enhanced Uncirculated Coin features raised areas with a cameo finish while the Reverse Proof coin displays mirrored devices with contrasting matte fields.
2013 West Point American Silver Eagle Two-Coin Set Features
| Coin Type | Finish | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Enhanced Uncirculated Coin | Cameo and heavily mirrored finish | Features raised elements with unique textures |
| Reverse Proof Coin | Mirrored devices and cameo contrast | Opposite of a typical proof coin, matte fields and mirrored devices |
Demand and Release Information
The 2013 West Point American Silver Eagle Two-Coin Set was released on May 9, 2013, and priced at $139.95. The U.S. Mint offered the set on a four-week ordering window, meaning collectors had to act quickly. Within two hours of the set’s release, sales surged to 88,000 sets. By the end of the first week, 182,000 sets had been sold.
The high demand for this set caused a significant disruption, with the Mint’s website crashing during the initial rush. Despite the brief chaos, sales continued to soar, and 281,310 sets were sold during the four-week period.
Interestingly, approximately one-third of the sets were broken up and sent to third-party grading services to be encapsulated and resold. Coins graded “perfect 70” are especially valuable, and demand for such coins remains strong.
Value of the 2013 West Point American Silver Eagle Set
The value of the 2013 West Point Silver Eagle Set can vary greatly depending on the coin’s grade. “Perfect 70” graded coins, often the most valuable, can command between $250 and $300 for the full set.
However, sets in original government packaging tend to sell for less. Recent sales on platforms like eBay have ranged from $180 to $250, depending on the set’s condition and whether it comes with the original packaging.
Why Is This Set So Popular Among Collectors?
- Historical Significance: The set commemorates the 75th anniversary of the West Point Mint, making it a key piece in the history of U.S. coinage.
- Limited Production: With only 281,310 sets sold, this set is not as widely available as many other annual releases.
- High-Quality Design: The enhanced and reverse proof finishes on the coins make them visually stunning and highly desirable among collectors.
- Rising Demand for Graded Coins: As collectors seek perfect specimens, the demand for graded versions of these coins has increased, pushing prices higher.
Conclusion
The 2013 West Point American Silver Eagle Two-Coin Set is an excellent addition to any collection, combining historical significance with unique design features. As demand for high-quality coins continues to rise, owning one of these sets in perfect condition could be a smart investment.
Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting, this set offers a glimpse into the rich history of the U.S. Mint and is a stunning tribute to the West Point Mint‘s legacy. With prices still climbing, now is the time to consider adding this iconic set to your collection before it becomes even rarer and more valuable.
FAQs
1. What makes the 2013 West Point Silver Eagle set special?
The set commemorates the 75th anniversary of the West Point Mint, featuring Enhanced Uncirculated and Reverse Proof coins, both with unique finishes.
2. How many sets were produced in 2013?
A total of 281,310 sets were produced and sold during the four-week ordering period.
3. What is the value of a “perfect 70” graded set?
A “perfect 70” graded set typically sells for between $250 and $300.
4. Why did the Mint’s website crash during the release?
The surge in sales demand during the first few hours led to overwhelming traffic, which caused a temporary website outage.
5. How can I get a graded version of this set?
You can purchase graded versions from third-party grading services or coin dealers who specialize in rare coins.
