U.S. Constitution Bicentennial Silver Dollar

The U.S. Constitution Bicentennial Silver Dollar is a modern commemorative coin struck by the United States Mint in 1987 to mark the 200th anniversary of the signing of the U.S. Constitution. It is a standard silver-dollar-sized coin containing 90% silver, issued for collectors rather than for circulation.

The obverse shows a quill (feather) pen alongside the phrase "We the People" and the anniversary dates 1787-1987. The reverse presents a grouping of figures in relief meant to represent a cross-section of Americans united under the Constitution, accompanied by the national motto E PLURIBUS UNUM. The coin was sold directly to the public in proof and uncirculated versions.

Congress authorized the Constitution Bicentennial coin program to commemorate the document signed in Philadelphia in 1787. Alongside a gold five-dollar piece, the Mint issued this silver dollar dated 1987, with proceeds and surcharges supporting the bicentennial commemoration.

The silver dollar was offered in two principal finishes: an uncirculated business strike from the Philadelphia Mint (mint mark P) and a mirror-finish proof from the San Francisco Mint (mint mark S). As a modern commemorative, it was never intended for pocket change; coins were bought from the Mint in protective packaging, which is why so many survive in pristine condition today.

Look for the quill pen and "We the People" legend on the obverse, paired with the split dates 1787 and 1987 that immediately tie the coin to the Constitution's bicentennial. The reverse's group of standing figures and the words E PLURIBUS UNUM confirm the unity theme.

The coin carries the legends UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, the denomination ONE DOLLAR, and LIBERTY, plus IN GOD WE TRUST. It measures about 38.1 mm in diameter, weighs roughly 26.7 grams, and is struck in a 90% silver, 10% copper alloy with a reeded edge. Check just below the design near the date area for a small P or S mint mark identifying Philadelphia or San Francisco.

As a modern commemorative, the Constitution silver dollar's baseline worth is tied to its silver content of roughly 0.77 troy ounce of pure silver, so melt value moves with the silver market. Both the uncirculated and proof versions were produced in large numbers, so they are common and affordable rather than rare.

Typical retail values run from around melt to a modest collector premium, commonly in the range of a few tens of dollars for ordinary examples, with proofs and high-grade certified pieces bringing somewhat more. Original Mint packaging and a certificate of authenticity can add appeal. Because prices track a volatile metals market and grade, treat any figure as a range and confirm against current listings.