Bullion Vs The "W" Mint Mark

specksynder - I think you got it right.

My spin is .. The mint is required to make all the BU ASE's that the public wants to buy.
Until they start getting a stockpile then they will not make any proof or burnished Eagles.

ASE's are sold all over the world and with countries like India buying up and increased amount of silver the past couple years, and here in the united states people are buying up silver and gold as a hedge against inflation and a unstable stock market, chances are good we may not see any proofs or burnished ASE's again this year.

Of course it would be nice if congress would instruct the mint to make some for all us loyal collectors.

According to a lot of retail sheets, yes. ebay offerings of 07 and 08 have produced minor returns over the bullion coin. The 2006 (1st year of issue) and the 2008 Rev of 2007 have produced some handsome premiums. I've seen some 08, w/rev of 07 sell for 600 bucks.

Sad to say, I think we're witnessing the death of the Proof and Burnished Eagle. I hope not but the current administration appears to be anti-collector.