Eisenhower Dollars
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Newsletter
Eisenhower Silver Dollars
Discover a unique chapter in the history of American coin with Eisenhower Dollars. These large-format $1 coins commemorate the Apollo 11 moon landing and pay tribute to President Dwight D. Eisenhower. They were struck between 1971 and 1978. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting out, Eisenhower Dollars offer affordability, size, and historical value in one impressive coin.
History of the Eisenhower Silver Dollars (1971–1978)
The Eisenhower Dollar was the first U.S. dollar coin minted since the Peace Dollar series ended in 1935. Approved by Congress in 1970, it has a design honoring the Apollo 11 lunar landing on the back and President Dwight D. Eisenhower on the front.
Issued by the U.S. Mint from 1971 to 1978, these coins were produced in Philadelphia (no mint mark), Denver (“D”), and San Francisco (“S”) facilities. They were the last large-size dollar coins intended for general circulation. Nicknamed "Ike Dollars" after Eisenhower's campaign slogan "We Like Ike," the coin quickly became a cultural icon.
Silver vs Clad Eisenhower Dollars
Not all Eisenhower Dollars were created equal. Some were made with 40% silver, while others were minted with a copper-nickel clad composition.
Silver Eisenhower Dollars were mostly produced at the San Francisco Mint as uncirculated and proof coins. Clad versions were meant for general use and produced in large quantities at the Philadelphia and Denver Mints.
Want to know if your Eisenhower Dollar is silver? Look for an “S” mint mark and check the coin’s edge, with silver versions have a solid edge without the copper stripe.
Types of Eisenhower Dollars
Uncirculated Eisenhower Dollars
These coins were never meant for daily usage; they were created specifically for collectors. Uncirculated Eisenhower Dollars exhibit crisp, distinct detailing and are frequently found in their original official packaging.
Proof Eisenhower Dollars
Proof coins are the highest-quality strikes from the U.S. Mint, featuring mirror-like backgrounds and frosted details. The San Francisco Mint produced the majority of Eisenhower proof coins.
40% Silver Eisenhower Dollars
The 40% silver versions were issued between 1971 and 1976. These include:
- 1971-S Uncirculated and Proof
- 1972-S Uncirculated and Proof
- 1973-S Uncirculated and Proof
- 1974-S Uncirculated and Proof
- 1976-S Bicentennial Silver (Type 1 and Type 2)
Some were issued in special packaging: the “Blue Pack” for uncirculated coins and the “Brown Pack” for proof versions, adding collectible appeal.
Rare Eisenhower Dollars & Key Dates
While most Eisenhower Dollars are affordable, certain issues are harder to find:
- 1972 Type 2: One of the rarest types, featuring a unique reverse Earth pattern.
- 1973-P and 1973-D: Issued only in Mint Sets, not released into circulation.
- High-grade proofs or uncirculated silver issues in pristine condition.
Die changes and production challenges led to multiple design varieties, making this series rich with collectible opportunities.
Eisenhower Dollar Coin Values & Price Guide
What Is the Value of a 1971 Eisenhower Silver Dollar?
The value depends on the version:
- 1971-D Clad (circulated): Typically $1–$2
- 1971-S 40% Silver Uncirculated: $10–$20+
- 1971-S Proof Silver: $12–$25+
Higher grades or sealed versions can command more.
Eisenhower Silver Dollar Value by Year and Mint
Some general ranges:
- 1972 Type 2 Silver: Up to $200+
- 1973-S Proof Silver: Around $15–$30
- 1976-S Silver Bicentennial: $10–$25 depending on type and condition
Market values can shift, so always check current listings or consult an expert. For up-to-date pricing, check out our Eisenhower Dollar listings.
How to Determine the Value of Your Eisenhower Dollar Coin
To assess value, consider:
- Condition: Circulated vs. uncirculated or proof
- Mint mark: “S” for silver coins, for clad coins, it is "D."
- Silver content: Only some issues contain silver (mostly 1971–1976-S)
- Collector demand: Certain dates and varieties are more sought-after
Need help figuring out your coin’s value? Browse our US Coin Value Guide or contact our numismatic experts.
Popular Eisenhower Dollar Issues
Explore some of the most collected and historically significant issues:
- 1971 Eisenhower Dollar
- 1971-S Eisenhower Silver Dollar
- 1972 Type 2 Eisenhower Dollar
- 1973-D and 1973-S Eisenhower Dollars
- 1976 Bicentennial Eisenhower Dollar – Type 1 & Type 2
- 1978 Final-Year Eisenhower Dollar
Due to its size and nostalgia, many remember using Ike Dollars to buy comic books, candy, or baseball cards — adding emotional value for collectors.
Reason to Buy Eisenhower Dollars from CSN Mint?
At CSN Mint, you get more than just coins — you get trust, experience, and quality. We offer:
- Authentic U.S. Mint Eisenhower Dollars
- Uncirculated and proof options, including rare silver varieties
- Competitive pricing and special offers
- Fast, secure shipping across the U.S.
- Support from knowledgeable numismatic professionals
Whether you’re buying a single coin or building a complete set, we’re here to help you begin or expand your collection confidently.
Looking to diversify? Check out our Morgan Silver Dollar collection or Peace Dollars for more iconic U.S. coinage.
FAQs About Eisenhower Dollars
1. Why are Eisenhower Dollars called "Ike Dollars"?
They're nicknamed "Ike Dollars" as a nod to President Dwight D. Eisenhower's popular campaign slogan, "We Like Ike."
2. Are Eisenhower Dollars still in circulation?
While they are legal tender, Eisenhower Dollars are no longer in active circulation and are mostly collected for their numismatic value.
3. What is the difference between a Brown Pack and a Blue Pack Eisenhower Dollar?
“Brown Pack” refers to the 40% silver proof Eisenhower Dollars issued in hard plastic holders with brown boxes. “Blue Pack” refers to the uncirculated 40% silver coins sold in blue envelopes.
4. Were any Eisenhower Dollars made for circulation in silver?
No. Eisenhower Dollars with 40% silver content were made especially for collectors. Circulation coins were made from a clad copper-nickel composition.
5. How to tell if my Eisenhower Dollar is silver?
Check the coin's weight (silver coins are heavier), edge (silver coins have a solid edge instead of the usual copper stripe of clad coins), and packaging (Blue Pack or Brown Pack).
6. What years were silver Eisenhower Dollars made?
Silver Eisenhower Dollars were issued from 1971 to 1974, and again in 1976 for the Bicentennial design, but only for collector sets.
7. Is the Eisenhower Dollar a good coin for beginners?
Yes! Due to its affordability, size, and available varieties, it's a great starting point for new collectors.
8. Are there rare or valuable Eisenhower Dollars?
Yes. Certain varieties like the 1972 Type 2 reverse or high-grade uncirculated examples can carry significant value.
9. What’s the best way to store Eisenhower Dollars?
Store them in acid-free coin holders, albums, or certified slabs to protect against tarnishing and damage.
10. What grading systems are used for Eisenhower Dollars?
Eisenhower Dollars are commonly graded using the Sheldon Scale (1 to 70), and certified by services like PCGS and NGC.
11. Why was the coin so large compared to modern dollars?
The huge size paid homage to the legacy of earlier silver dollars, such as the Peace and Morgan dollars. The significance of Eisenhower and the Apollo 11 mission was also intended to be emphasized.
12. Why were Eisenhower Dollars discontinued?
They were bulky, expensive to produce, and unpopular for daily transactions, leading to their replacement by the smaller Susan B. Anthony dollar in 1979.
13. What is the significance of the Apollo 11 design?
The reverse design, created by Frank Gasparro, features the Apollo 11 mission insignia to commemorate the moon landing—one of America’s greatest achievements during Eisenhower’s era.
14. Can Eisenhower Dollars be found in circulation today?
Rarely. While technically legal tender, they are not issued for circulation anymore and are usually found only in collections or coin rolls.
15. Are Eisenhower Dollars used in coin roll hunting?
Yes! Coin roll hunters often look through bank rolls or old bags in hopes of finding silver issues or rare varieties.