Overview
Silver Bullet Silver Shield (SBSS) is a privately issued bullion series created by Chris Duane in 2012. The series combines original medallic artwork with themes centered on sound money, individual liberty, economics, history, and social commentary. Unlike traditional bullion programs, SBSS issues are designed to communicate ideas and commentary through original artwork struck in precious metals.
Following his 2012 congressional testimony on community currencies, Chris Duane began designing and issuing Silver Bullet Silver Shield rounds in partnership with Mulligan Mint of Dallas, Texas. Early releases frequently carried the AOCS Approved designation, reflecting their association with the Approved for Commerce in Society (AOCS) movement.
Following the closure of Mulligan Mint in 2014, manufacturing and distribution transitioned to Golden State Mint, while Chris Duane remained the issuer and principal creative force behind the series. Today, the program continues under the simplified Silver Shield name and has grown into one of the largest privately issued bullion series in the United States.
Years
2012–Present
Issuer
Chris Duane
Manufacturers / Mints
- Mulligan Mint, Dallas, Texas (2012–2014)
- Golden State Mint, Sanford, Florida (2014–Present)
Distributors
- Mulligan Mint (2012–2013)
- Golden State Mint (2014–Present)
Themes
The series explores subjects including:
- Sound money
- Precious metals
- Economic history
- Individual liberty
- Constitutional principles
- Free markets
- Central banking
- Historical events
- Political and social commentary
- Symbolic and allegorical artwork
Known Compositions
- .999 Fine Silver
- .999 Fine Copper
- .9999 Fine Gold
Additional compositions and specialty finishes have been produced for selected issues.
Formats
Documented formats include:
- 1 Troy Ounce
- Fractional Silver
- Fractional Gold
- Larger-format silver issues
- Proof and specialty finishes
Design
The Silver Bullet Silver Shield series features original artwork commissioned for the program. Chris Duane serves as the issuer and principal creative force behind the collection, while individual designs have been created by Duane and commissioned artists, including Heidi Wastweet.
Historical Significance
Silver Bullet Silver Shield represents one of the most influential privately issued bullion collections of the modern era. Beginning with production at Mulligan Mint in Texas, the series pioneered the use of bullion rounds as a medium for economic education, historical interpretation, and social commentary. Its continued production through Golden State Mint demonstrates the longevity and evolution of a privately issued bullion program centered on original artwork and recurring themes.
Notes
- The series debuted in 2012.
- Early issues commonly bear the AOCS Approved designation.
- Manufacturing transitioned from Mulligan Mint to Golden State Mint in 2014.
- The collection later became known simply as Silver Shield while maintaining continuity with the original SBSS program.
- New designs continue to be released on a regular basis.
References
- Chris Duane publications and website.
- Mulligan Mint publications.
- Golden State Mint publications.
- The Texas Stacker Collection.
Coins in this Collection (1)
