Locator: 49231COINS.
AI prompt:
Is this accurate: in 2009, soaring demand forced the U.S. Mint to make a controversial choice: no Proof Silver Eagle was struck for the first and only time since the series launched in 1986. That year also saw no Burnished issues, leaving collectors with a frustrating gap?
My comment and then AI's reply:
Private dealers are now offering a "2009" commemorative to fill the gap. Incredibly expensive. Supposedly minted by the US Government Mint but a commemorative commissioned by private dealers. At least that's my understanding. I have no experience in this area.
AI prompt: is a commemorative legal tender?
AI reply:
Yes, U.S. commemorative coins are legal tender, but they are not minted for general circulation and are not intended to be spent in day-to-day transactions, according to Congress.gov and the U.S. Mint. While they hold official value in settling debts, their true value often lies with collectors, as they are sold by the U.S. Mint at prices higher than their face value.
