The Silver American Eagle series is a collection of silver bullion coins issued by the United States Mint. The series was first released in 1986 and has become one of the most popular silver bullion coins among collectors and investors. Here are some key details about the Silver American Eagle series:

### Design
- **Obverse:** The obverse features the "Walking Liberty" design by Adolph A. Weinman, which was originally used on the Walking Liberty Half Dollar coins from 1916 to 1947. This design depicts Liberty walking toward the sun with the American flag draped over her shoulders.
- **Reverse:** From 1986 to 2021, the reverse showcased a heraldic eagle behind a shield, holding an olive branch in one talon and arrows in the other, designed by John Mercanti. Starting in mid-2021, a new reverse design was introduced, featuring a bald eagle coming in for a landing, carrying an oak branch as if to add it to a nest.

### Minting and Specifications
- **Metal Content:** Each coin contains one troy ounce of .999 fine silver.
- **Weight:** Approximately 31.103 grams.
- **Diameter:** About 40.6 mm (1.598 inches).
- **Thickness:** Approximately 2.98 mm.
- **Mint Marks:** Bullion coins do not typically carry a mint mark, but collectible proof and uncirculated versions have been minted at West Point (W), Philadelphia (P), and San Francisco (S).

### Types
- **Bullion:** Targeted at investors, these coins are sold at a price based on the market value of silver plus a small premium.
- **Proof:** These are collector's items featuring a mirror-like background with a frosted design. They are minted in limited quantities and sold directly by the U.S. Mint at a higher premium.
- **Uncirculated:** Special collector versions that are hand-loaded into the coining press and struck on specially prepared planchets to give them a brilliant finish distinct from the bullion versions.

### Collectability and Investment
- Silver American Eagles are sought after by both collectors and investors. Collectors appreciate the series for its beauty and historical significance, while investors value the coins for their silver content and the potential for appreciation in value.
- Certain years and variations of the coin can command higher premiums in the market due to their rarity, condition, or specific demand among collectors.

Whether for a collection or investment, the Silver American Eagle series represents a significant and cherished part of many people's portfolios, embodying both the physical and symbolic qualities that make precious metal coins so appealing.