Most silver eagle collectors own the regular Brilliant Uncirculated issues, whose mintages are fairly substantial but the most beautiful and desirable form of these precious coins are the spectacularly minted proof issues. More than nine million Uncirculated issues were struck in 2001, but less than 750,000 proofs were output. Each one ounce .999 silver dollar showcases superb, deep-etched frosted engravings and dazzling mirror backgrounds. Far fewer are output each year in this splendid proof format.