Hang on to that Silver Eagle ! If you have what I think you do, it is a dollar in name only. It is an ounce of .999 silver and, depending upon the condition; worth considerably more than the dollar that's stamped on it (in the neighborhood of $20 or so).
I've seen a lot of worn Silver Eagles, but never one in circulation. I assume that at least a few circulate. But how? How do primarily bullion coins ever circulate, especially long enough to show serious wear? Amazing.