The U.S. struck its first silver bullion coin.

James A. Baker III, secretary of the Treasury, struck the first U.S. bullion silver dollar in history. It was the first of 1 million, 1-ounce American Eagle silver dollars to be struck at the San Francisco Mint by Nov. 24, when they will be distributed first to 27 bulk dealers nationwide, then to retail outlets for public sale. Hundreds of guests looked on as Baker struck the silver blank twice, as is done with special coins to sharpen the impressions.