Due to a huge investor demand the Silver Institute asked the U.S. Mint to perform instant actions in order to increase the number of American Eagle Silver Bullion Coins in circulation, which is a popular precious metal investment machine. It is worth mentioning that high demand for American Eagle Silver Bullion Coins was the cause of market shortage.

Silver Institute wrote a letter, addressed to the U.S. Mint Director, concerning the officially published reports about coins being basically rationed to 13 authorized dealers, registering a big twist in the supply chain. In such a way it is hard for consumers to acquire them.

Michael DiRienzo, who holds the position of Executive Director at Silver Institute, stated: "It's clear that the Mint misjudged the strength of the current silver market, and we are encouraging the Mint to take immediate steps to increase its production of these popular investment coins and plan accordingly for the balance of 2008 and for 2009. The trend line is clear, silver investment is on the rise, so the Mint should position itself to take advantage of this market momentum."

Being authorized by the U.S. Congress the American Eagle Silver Bullion Coins offer investors an easy way of filing their portfolios with physical silver, this also being cost-effective. It's worth noting that ever since the American Eagle Silver Bullion Coins were introduced in 1986, they turned into a bullion coin investment product. These coins created more than 165 million one-ounce coins, and in 2007 9.8 million American Eagles were sold. An incredible number of 7.2 million coins were sold only during this year's first 5 months.

Being aware of the fact that American Eagle Silver Bullion Coins are extremely popular, the Silver Institute is advising the U.S. Mint Director to take immediate measures for streamlining the striking process of these coins.

"We are very concerned about interruptions in this market and have requested a meeting with the Mint Director to seek stability for this important silver coinage program," said DiRienzo. A copy of the letter written by the Silver Institute to the U.S. Mint is available at: http://www.silverinstitute.org/news/DirectorMoyMay29.pdf.

The Silver Institute is represents a nonprofit international industry association, with its headquarters in Washington, D.C. The association was founded in 1971. The goal of the Institute is to serve as the industry's voice in raising public understanding regarding the value and many uses of silver.