1982 Engelhard Prospector Silver Round $240

Updated August 20, 2026

This auction ended on August 27, 2026. See upcoming auctions from Iowa Surplus & Estate Auctions.
Lot number230
Estimate156.25 - 468.75 USD
AuctionAUG 27 26 GOLD SILVER BULLION SLABBED KNIVES CARDS
DateAugust 27, 2026 at 6:00 PM CDT
Auction houseIowa Surplus & Estate Auctions
LocationCoralville, Iowa

1982 Engelhard Prospector Silver Round $240 The 1982 Engelhard Prospector is a premier 1 oz silver round composed of .999 fine silver, representing the very first year of issue for this highly collectible series. The obverse features the iconic image of a rugged lone prospector panning for gold, a design that has become synonymous with American bullion history, framed by the inscriptions USA, 1982, and THE AMERICAN PROSPECTOR. The reverse typically displays the recognizable Engelhard "E" logo or the eagle-and-flag design, along with the weight and purity specifications. As the inaugural year of the series, the 1982 edition is particularly sought after by numismatists and precious metal investors alike, often carrying a higher premium than later years due to its historical significance as the first private-label silver round to gain massive global recognition. This specific piece exhibits the classic brilliant uncirculated luster characteristic of the Engelhard Mint's high production standards, making it a foundational addition to any silver portfolio. Condition: This 1982 Engelhard Prospector round appears to be in Brilliant Uncirculated (BU) condition, characterized by its sharp details and original mint luster. There is visible peripheral toning and minor tarnish along the bottom rim, which is common for silver stored in original plastic flips. The surfaces show minimal contact marks or abrasions. Mint: Produced by Engelhard Industries, a renowned private American minting and precious metals refining company. Metal Content: 1 Troy Ounce of .999 Fine Silver. Historical Context: The 1982 Prospector is the inaugural year of the Engelhard Prospector series, which was the first major private bullion round series to compete with government-issued coins. The 1982 version is particularly notable for featuring the "Big E" logo on the reverse, a design that was later changed to an Eagle in 1984. Strike Type: Business strike/Bullion strike. Grading: The item is ungraded (raw), but visually consistent with a grade in the MS-60 to MS-63 range due to its clean fields and sharp strike, despite the natural edge oxidation. silver round, American Prospector, Engelhard, 1982, bullion, one ounce, .999 fine silver, coin, numismatics, precious metals, silver trade unit, panning for gold, vintage silver 1982 American Prospector, Engelhard Silver Round, 1 oz Silver Coin, Bullion, Precious Metals, Numismatics, Silver Investment, Vintage Silver, Fine Silver, Collectible Coin Bidder is fully responsible for: - Determining what an item is worth to you - Evaluating the condition and authenticity of items - Making informed bidding decisions -BIDDER/BUYER To determine the items' Condition, Completeness, Authenticity, and Grade. - Fulfillment of contract of bid, understands there are no refunds or chargebacks, items are “As Is” The auction house does explicitly not: - Provide appraisals - Grade items - Authenticate items - Test items - Third-Party Grading is that

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