Reader's Digest Sweepstakes 25th Anniversary Coin (Token)

Country of Origin: United States, Reader's Digest Association

Year of Issue: 1987

Denomination: No cash value (Promotional Token)

Composition: Aluminum and/or base metal alloy

Reader's Digest Sweepstakes 25th Anniversary Coin (Token)

Brief Description

A promotional token featuring an eagle with spread wings, designed to resemble a US silver dollar.

Historical Significance

This is an advertising token or 'exonumia' item issued by Reader's Digest to promote their 25th annual sweepstakes in 1987. These were mass-mailed to households across the US as part of a marketing campaign.

Estimated Value

$1-$5 (mostly novelty or sentimental value)

Care Instructions

Keep in a dry environment. As it is made of inexpensive base metal, it is prone to oxidation if exposed to moisture. Avoid abrasive cleaning.

Mint Mark

None (Privately struck)

Mintage & Rarity

Common; millions were produced and distributed through the mail.

Weight & Diameter

Approx. 5-7g; 38mm (similar size to a Morgan Silver Dollar)

Edge

Reeded

Apparent Grade

Uncirculated / Mint State (as it was never meant for circulation and is protected in a holder)

Obverse (Front)

An eagle with spread wings clutching an olive branch and arrows, mimicing the reverse of a Morgan Dollar. Inscriptions: 'READER'S DIGEST SWEEPSTAKES', '25TH ANNIVERSARY COIN', and a code 'SC/OS 1469-5'.

Reverse (Back)

Generally identical to the obverse in most variations, or a repeating pattern of the eagle design.

What Drives This Coin's Value

Condition and the presence of any unique mailer packaging. In general, these have very low financial value due to high mintage.

Similar Coins

Often mistaken for a Morgan Silver Dollar or a genuine US commemorative due to the eagle design and size.

Authenticity & Counterfeit Red Flags

Look for the text 'Reader's Digest'. Real US currency will always state 'United States of America' and a denomination (e.g., 'One Dollar').

Notable Varieties & Errors

None known; variations in the numeric tracking codes exist but do not impact value.

Created At: 2026-06-25T04:09:19.445791