2002 $1 Silver Eagle – Early Production Mint Error MS69 "Reverse Struck-Thru," John Mercanti Signed
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Major Mint Error: A genuine and distinct 'Reverse Struck-Thru' mint error on the coin's reverse, officially certified by NGC.
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Designer's Autograph: Personally hand-signed by John M. Mercanti, the 12th Chief Engraver of the U.S. Mint and the designer of this coin's iconic Heraldic Eagle reverse.
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Elite "Early Production" Pedigree: Certified with the special 'Early Production' designation, indicating this coin was struck with fresh dies early in the mintage run, resulting in a sharp, detailed strike.
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Superb Grade: Graded a superb Mint State 69 (MS69) by NGC, preserving this unique combination of features in near-perfect condition.
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A Truly Unique Collectible: An exceptional artifact combining an early strike pedigree, a major error, and the signature of its legendary creator.
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Precious Metal Content: Struck in one full troy ounce of .999 fine silver, the trusted standard of America's premier silver bullion coin.
A Perfect Storm of Numismatic Rarity
Elevate your collection with a coin that represents an almost impossible convergence of collectible features: the 2002 "Early Production" Reverse Struck-Thru Silver Eagle, signed by its designer, John Mercanti. It is exceptionally rare to find a coin that offers so many layers of desirability. It begins as a certified "Early Production" strike, prized for its quality and freshness. It was then dramatically transformed by a major mint error. Finally, it was personally autographed by the very artist who designed the side of the coin where the error occurred. Preserved in superb MS69 condition, this coin is not just a treasure; it's a story of quality, chaos, and creativity captured in a single, one-of-a-kind piece.
Exquisite Design
This coin features the classic American Silver Eagle designs, but with a dramatic flaw and a legendary signature that elevate it to an entirely new level.
Obverse: The obverse showcases Adolph A. Weinman’s timeless "Walking Liberty" design. Lady Liberty strides confidently toward the dawn, her iconic figure rendered with the crisp detail characteristic of an early production strike.
Reverse: The reverse features the powerful Heraldic Eagle design created by John M. Mercanti. This is the centerpiece of this coin's incredible story. The iconic design is permanently and uniquely altered by the "Struck-Thru" error, and the holder containing it is autographed by Mercanti himself, creating an unbroken link between the artist, his art, the early strike, and the unique error that makes this coin one-of-a-kind.
Why Collect This Coin?
The case for this coin’s elite status is undeniable. It achieves a powerful combination of features rarely seen together: a Major Error, an Early Strike Pedigree, a High Grade, and a Designer's Signature. The certified "Struck-Thru" error makes it a unique specimen. The "Early Production" pedigree marks it as one of the best-quality strikes. The John Mercanti signature provides a direct, personal link to the coin's creation. Finding any one of these attributes is desirable; finding all of them together on a high-grade coin is extraordinary.
Detailed Overview
Introduction to the Coin The 2002 American Silver Eagle is a classic issue from the world's most popular bullion program. The discovery of a genuine mint error on a high-grade, early production example from this year is a significant event. The addition of a signature from its designer, John Mercanti, elevates it from a rare error into a singular and historic artifact that will be a highlight of any collection.
Artistic and Design Elements
The "Walking Liberty" obverse is a celebrated icon of American coinage. The Heraldic Eagle reverse is a powerful symbol of American strength, and its designer, John Mercanti, went on to become the U.S. Mint's 12th Chief Engraver. This coin embodies his most famous work, making his signature on the holder particularly meaningful. The error itself adds a fascinating, chaotic element to the intended artistic perfection of an early strike.
Unique Collectible Features
This coin’s elite status is built on a clear and powerful convergence of rarity.
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It begins as a sought-after 2002 American Silver Eagle.
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It is certified as an "Early Production" strike, one of the first and finest from the dies.
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It was then transformed by a Major "Reverse Struck-Thru" Mint Error, making it a fundamentally unique item.
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It is preserved for history in superb MS69 condition by NGC.
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The final, and most exclusive feature, is the hand-signed autograph of its reverse designer, John M. Mercanti.
Packaging and Presentation
The coin is sonically sealed in a durable NGC holder to permanently protect its condition. The holder’s label officially certifies its MS69 grade, the unique "Reverse Struck-Thru" Mint Error, the "Early Production" pedigree, and prominently displays the authentic, hand-signed autograph of John M. Mercanti.
