Bkmrk
For some background:
Proof coins are specially struck; they are “perfect.” They are shipped in a special box and encased in plastic. This protects them from being scratched or dented.
Uncirculated coins are coins that are from a normal run, but haven’t been in circulation. Most Silver eagles are in this condition because no one uses them—unlike the old Morgan Silvers. But, they have little scratches or dents from being in the tubes.
When you buy from online coin dealers they are usually “Brilliant uncirculated.” This means they are straight out of the tube.
The only time you might want to buy proofs is if you are a collector. If you do, never handle them out of their case with your bare fingers. The oil will wreck them.
Current spot prices are about $5 below what you will pay for a current year Silver Eagle. Generally you can sell an SE for about $2-3 over spot.
It’s also important to recall that the Silver Eagles are 1 oz of silver. The Pre-1964 silver coins were 90% silver, so a silver dollar did not weigh an ounce.