Eisenhower Dollar FAQ
The Eisenhower Dollar is a one-dollar coin issued by the United States Mint from 1971 to 1978. It was the first dollar coin issued after the Peace Dollar and was minted to honor both President Dwight D. Eisenhower and the Apollo 11 moon landing.
Eisenhower Dollars were primarily minted in a copper-nickel clad for circulation. However, special collector versions were struck in a 40% silver alloy from 1971 to 1976.
While most Eisenhower Dollars are relatively common, key dates include the 1972 Type 2, the 1973 and 1973-D (due to their low circulation release), and the 1976 Type 1 and Type 2 bicentennial varieties.
The value of a 1971 Eisenhower Dollar varies. Circulated coins are generally worth their face value, while uncirculated and silver collector versions can be worth more, depending on their condition and the market.
The 1972 Type 2 Eisenhower Dollar, known for its low relief and absence of islands below Florida on the reverse's Earth depiction, is considered one of the rarest and most sought-after by collectors.
While it's possible to find Eisenhower Dollars in circulation, they are relatively uncommon. Most have been collected or are kept as novelties due to their large size compared to other coins.
The most valuable Eisenhower Dollars are typically those in pristine condition, especially the 40% silver collector's editions, error coins, and high-grade examples of the 1972 Type 2 and certain bicentennial varieties.
The Eisenhower Dollar was discontinued due to its large size and the public's reluctance to use the coin in everyday transactions, leading to low circulation.
The Susan B. Anthony Dollar, introduced in 1979, replaced the Eisenhower Dollar. It was smaller, making it more convenient for everyday transactions.
To determine if an Eisenhower Dollar is silver, look for a mint mark of "S" indicating it was minted in San Francisco. These "S" mint mark coins from 1971 to 1976 are likely to be the 40% silver collector's editions. Additionally, the silver versions have a different edge and sound compared to the copper-nickel clad coins.