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The Certified Proof Silver Eagle 2017-S PR70 PCGS First Strike from the Congratulations Set represents one of the most distinguished and desirable entries in the modern American Silver Eagle program. This coin is notable not only for its flawless grade and exquisite proof finish but also for its limited issuance, being released exclusively in the special edition 2017 Congratulations Set. Featuring the coveted "S" mintmark of the San Francisco Mint and struck in .999 fine silver, this coin has earned significant acclaim among collectors for its rarity, beauty, and impeccable production quality. The PCGS certification as PR70 First Strike assures collectors that the coin is both perfect in condition and among the earliest pieces struck.
The American Silver Eagle series was inaugurated in 1986 and quickly became the official silver bullion coin of the United States. While most annual proof issues have traditionally been struck at the West Point Mint, 2017 marked a return to the San Francisco Mint for a limited number of Proof Silver Eagles. The 2017-S Proof was not released as part of the typical annual proof set, but instead debuted exclusively in the 2017 Congratulations Set, a collector-focused product intended for gifting. As a result, the coin was produced in limited numbers and only accessible through a very specific product channel, adding to its scarcity and allure.
Struck using the traditional proof process, the 2017-S Silver Eagle was made from specially prepared planchets that were polished to a mirror-like shine before being struck multiple times with specially treated dies. This method creates a frosted, high-relief design that dramatically contrasts against the mirrored background, producing the deeply mirrored fields and cameo contrast that define the finest modern proof coins. Every detail on this coin is sharply struck, with brilliant luster and no imperfections, as confirmed by its PR70 grade from PCGS—the highest grade attainable for a proof coin.
The obverse of the 2017-S Silver Eagle features Adolph A. Weinman’s iconic Walking Liberty design, which originally graced the half dollar from 1916 through 1947. This classic depiction of Liberty is a symbol of strength and forward progress, as she strides confidently toward the sunrise with the American flag draped around her shoulders and her arm extended in hope. Inscriptions include “LIBERTY,” “IN GOD WE TRUST,” and the year “2017.” The proof finish on this coin highlights every fold of her flowing gown and each detail in the sun’s radiant beams, rendering the image with exceptional clarity and elegance.
The reverse bears John Mercanti’s heraldic eagle design, which was featured on all Silver Eagles from 1986 until the Type 2 redesign in 2021. The eagle is shown with wings spread wide, a shield across its chest, and grasping arrows and an olive branch in its talons, representing military preparedness and peace. Above the eagle are thirteen stars arranged in a triangular formation to represent the original colonies. Around the border are the inscriptions “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” “1 OZ. FINE SILVER ~ ONE DOLLAR,” and “E PLURIBUS UNUM.” The addition of the “S” mintmark beneath the eagle’s talon identifies the San Francisco Mint origin—an important and distinguishing detail for collectors.
The San Francisco Mint has a long-standing reputation for producing high-quality proof coinage. Established in 1854, it played a key role in the nation’s coinage expansion during the California Gold Rush and has since evolved into one of the foremost facilities for commemorative and numismatic issues. The 2017-S Silver Eagle continues this legacy of excellence, showcasing both technical skill and artistic tradition. Its exclusive release in the Congratulations Set, which was limited in availability and quickly sold out upon release, has made this coin significantly scarcer than other Silver Eagles from the same year.
Only 75,000 of the 2017-S Proof Silver Eagles were minted, all of which were distributed through the Congratulations Set. This makes it one of the lowest-mintage proof Silver Eagles of the modern era. When compared to the millions of West Point–minted bullion Silver Eagles, or even the standard annual proof issues, the 2017-S stands out as a rare and highly targeted collector's item. As more of these coins are graded and absorbed into high-end registry sets, the supply of PR70 First Strike examples available on the secondary market has continued to dwindle.
The PCGS PR70 First Strike certification adds significant value and prestige to this coin. The PR70 grade means the coin is free from any post-production flaws even under 5x magnification, while the First Strike designation confirms that it was received by PCGS within 30 days of the U.S. Mint’s initial release. These attributes are especially desirable to registry collectors seeking top-ranked sets, as only the earliest and most pristine coins are eligible for these combined labels. The encapsulation by PCGS further ensures long-term preservation, security, and authenticity.
In terms of condition, this coin is pristine. The surfaces are untouched by any imperfections, the strike is razor-sharp, and the mirror-like fields contrast brilliantly with the frosted design elements. This dazzling finish enhances the visual impact of the classic imagery and is a hallmark of the finest proof minting standards. As a modern numismatic specimen, the 2017-S Silver Eagle in PR70 is truly an elite piece, combining beauty, exclusivity, and historical significance in one collectible format.
The Certified Proof Silver Eagle 2017-S PR70 PCGS First Strike from the Congratulations Set occupies a unique position in the American Silver Eagle lineage. Its limited mintage, exclusive packaging origin, flawless grade, and early release designation all contribute to its elevated status among collectors. As the only way to obtain a 2017-S Silver Eagle was through this special set, it remains one of the most sought-after modern issues, particularly in perfect PR70 condition. For serious collectors of American silver coinage, this coin represents a rare opportunity to own a flawless and historically distinctive proof from one of the U.S. Mint’s most collectible and artistically accomplished series.