Eisenhower Dollar

Country of Origin: United States of America

Year of Issue: 1971

Denomination: One Dollar ($1)

Composition: Copper-Nickel Clad (Outer layers: 75% copper, 25% nickel; Inner core: 100% copper)

Eisenhower Dollar

Brief Description

A large silver-colored coin featuring the profile of Dwight D. Eisenhower and a reverse design commemorating the Apollo 11 moon landing.

Historical Significance

The Eisenhower dollar was the first large dollar coin issued for circulation since the Peace Dollar in 1935. It was created to honor both President Dwight D. Eisenhower and the 1969 moon landing.

Estimated Value

$1.05-$1.50 in circulated condition; $5-$20 in high-grade uncirculated conditions.

Care Instructions

Do not clean or polish the coin. Handle by the edges only to avoid fingerprints. Store in a PVC-free coin flip or capsule to prevent environmental damage.

Mint Mark

None (indicates Philadelphia Mint)

Mintage & Rarity

Common; approximately 47,799,000 minted in Philadelphia in 1971.

Weight & Diameter

22.68 grams; 38.1 mm

Edge

Reeded

Apparent Grade

Very Good to Fine (visible wear on high points and fields, somewhat blurry image quality makes precise grading difficult).

Obverse (Front)

Profile design of Dwight D. Eisenhower facing left. Legends: LIBERTY, IN GOD WE TRUST, and the date 1971. Designed by Frank Gasparro.

Reverse (Back)

An eagle landing on the moon holding an olive branch, with the Earth in the background. Based on the Apollo 11 mission patch. Legends: UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, E PLURIBUS UNUM, ONE DOLLAR. Designed by Frank Gasparro.

What Drives This Coin's Value

Condition is the primary factor. Most 1971 clad dollars found in circulation are only worth face value or a small premium. High-grade uncirculated specimens (MS-65 and above) and silver-clad versions (from San Francisco) are more valuable.

Similar Coins

Silver-clad Eisenhower dollars minted in San Francisco (S mint mark) have a higher silver content (40%) and different luster. The 1971-S is distinguished by the 'S' mint mark above the date.

Authenticity & Counterfeit Red Flags

Check for the copper 'sandwich' line on the edge to confirm it is the clad version. Weight should be consistently near 22.7g. Genuine coins have sharp, crisp lettering.

Notable Varieties & Errors

The 1971-D 'Friendly Eagle' variety (die variety) is highly sought after, though less common in the Philadelphia mint issues shown here.

Created At: 2026-06-13T16:27:02.034561