# M12077 - 2008 Bald Eagle Silver Dollar, Uncirculated

Own A Dramatic Silver Dollar
Honoring Our National Emblem – The Bald Eagle
Only 1 Available!

This meaningful uncirculated US 90% silver dollar was minted in 2008 to mark the 35th anniversary of the Endangered Species Act of 1973.  The bald eagle was placed on the endangered species list that year, and in 2007, one year before this coin was issued, it was removed from the list, thanks to extensive efforts to protect its population and habitats.  One side shows a bald eagle in flight, while the back pictures the Great Seal of the United States from 1782 to 1841.  Surcharges from the sale of this coin went to the American Eagle Foundation of Tennessee, which works to save and protect bald eagles around the country.

How the Bald Eagle Became Our National Emblem

An early morning battle at the start of the American Revolution woke sleeping eagles at their nearby nests.  The eagles began circling the field and squawking.  The patriots believed “They [were] shrieking for freedom.”

As the war raged on, the Americans sought a national symbol.  For six years, the Continental Congress debated the possibilities.  Finally, in 1782, one man submitted a drawing of an eagle, describing it as a symbol of “supreme power and authority.”  By the end of the year, the eagle was part of the national seal.  It was another five years before the eagle was officially adopted as the emblem of the United States.

Centuries ago, the eagle population numbered around 75,000.  A combination of hunting and poison from insecticide saw their numbers drop to only about 800 in the 1960s, making it an Endangered Species.  Several laws and conservation attempts have replenished the population.  In 2007, the bald eagle was removed from the Endangered Species list and is now considered of least concern, a vast improvement in just 40 years.

Add this fascinating piece of Americana to your collection – order now.