The 1924 Peace Dollar is one of the more common coins in the Peace Dollar series. It had a total mintage of 11,811,000 coins. Although more common, it is much more rare than the 1922 Peace Dollar and 1923 Peace Dollar which mintages are three to five times that of the 1924. Thus, when looking to buy less expensive Peace Dollars in bulk, one should try to buy 1924s over the other common dates because of the lower mintage. A nice brilliant uncirculated 1924 Peace Dollar can cost you around $50 at todays prices, while a really high end mint state specimen can run you north of $1,000.
The Peace Dollar design was inspired by the desire for peace after the world war. After the war had ended, the United States Commission for Fine Arts held a competition among 8 artists to design a silver dollar the emulated peace. As a result, Anthony D. Francisci, an Italian immigrant was chosen to design the coin. He chose a goddess of liberty for the obverse of the piece and on the reverse he chose a fierce bald eagle. The bald eagle was featured grasping onto a olive branch, another iconic symbol of peace.
Each Peace Dollar throughout the series was composed of 90% silver and 10% copper. The Peace Dollar marked the last circulated silver dollar to actually be made of 90% silver. Thereafter silver dollars were made of clad. As a result, collectors often purchase Peace Dollar for their silver content as well as their collectibility. The span of the Peace Dollar's life ranged from 1921 Peace Dollar, the first year of issue, and 1935, the last year of issue.
