Numismatic

4.17 oz Silver Bar - Franklin Mint Western Mines (Random Motif)

---

In 1973, the Franklin Mint produced a captivating series of silver bars dedicated to the historic mining operations of the American West. Each piece contains 4.17 troy ounces of 0.999 fine silver, which is equivalent to 2000 grains. Because these bars were struck with varying motifs, different examples in the series highlight different legendary enterprises, such as the Sunshine Mine, the Galena Mine, or the Crescent Mine, located in famous mining regions like Kellogg, Idaho and Wallace, Idaho. The obverse of each bar features a detailed artistic depiction of a Western mine, honoring the industrial heritage of these rugged locations. Depending on the specific variety, the design may showcase prominent names from American mining history, including the Anaconda Butte Mines in Montana, the Homestake Bulldog Mine in Colorado, or the Phelps Dodge Copper Queen Mine in Arizona. On the reverse, the bar clearly displays its weight and purity, verifying its composition of 2000 grains of 0.999 fine silver. The reverse also bears the year of production, 1973, alongside an inscription noting that it was struck especially for the respective mining entity by the Franklin Mint.