Imagine holding a piece of history that was made to celebrate the end of a terrible war. That’s exactly what the Peace Dollar is all about. Back in 1921, after World War I finally ended, America wanted a coin that stood for hope and a peaceful future. The front of this beautiful silver coin shows Lady Liberty with sun rays beaming behind her head like she’s glowing. Flip it over, and you’ll see an eagle resting on a rock with the word “PEACE” written right on it. This coin was made from 90% real silver, which is one reason collectors go crazy for it today. It was the last silver dollar made for regular people to use in stores for a very long time. Every time someone looks at a Peace Dollar, they’re reminded of how America felt after the war ended. Top 5 Eisenhower and Peace Dollar Coins Worth Up to Millions in 2026 – Collector’s News Guide
The Eisenhower Dollar: Remembering a President and the Moon
Fast forward to 1971, and America created another amazing dollar coin. This one honored two big things at once: President Dwight D. Eisenhower and the incredible Apollo 11 moon landing. The front has Eisenhower’s portrait looking serious and presidential. The back shows an eagle actually landing on the moon, which was a huge deal back then because we had just put humans on the lunar surface for the first time. Most Eisenhower Dollars you’ll find are made from copper and nickel, like regular pocket change. But here’s the cool part – some special versions were made with 40% silver specifically for collectors. This coin ties together American leadership and one of our greatest space achievements all in one design. It’s like carrying a tiny piece of space history in your pocket.
Which Peace Dollars Are Worth a Fortune?
Not all Peace Dollars are created equal when it comes to value. Some are way rarer than others, and that’s what makes collectors willing to pay big money for them. The 1921 High Relief Peace Dollar stands out because the design is raised up really high from the surface, making every detail super sharp and beautiful. Then there’s the 1928 Peace Dollar, which had the fewest coins made in the entire series – we call that “low mintage.” When fewer coins exist, they’re harder to find and worth more money. The 1934-S Peace Dollar from the San Francisco mint is another tough one to track down, especially if it’s in great shape. During the Great Depression, people used their coins until they were worn out, so finding a nice one today is like discovering buried treasure.
Quick Look: Peace and Eisenhower Dollar Facts
| Coin Name | Years Made | What It’s Made Of | Who Designed It | Cool Features | Why It’s Valuable |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Peace Dollar | 1921–1928, 1934–1935 | 90% Silver, 10% Copper | Anthony de Francisci | Lady Liberty & Eagle with “Peace” | Silver content, some years had very few made |
| 1921 High Relief Peace | 1921 Only | 90% Silver | Anthony de Francisci | Design stands out super high | Only made one year, super rare |
| 1928 Peace Dollar | 1928 | 90% Silver | Anthony de Francisci | Lowest number made | Extremely hard to find |
| 1934-S Peace Dollar | 1934 | 90% Silver | Anthony de Francisci | Rare in nice condition | Almost no mint-condition coins exist |
| Eisenhower Dollar | 1971–1978 | Copper-Nickel & 40% Silver | Frank Gasparro | Moon landing design | Ties history with space exploration |
| 1972 Type 2 Ike | 1972 | Copper-Nickel | Frank Gasparro | Earth looks different and clearer | Harder to find than other 1972 coins |
| 1976 Bicentennial Silver Proof | 1976 | 40% Silver | Dennis R. Williams | Shows Liberty Bell & Moon together | Special silver proof version |
Eisenhower Dollar Varieties You Should Know About
If you think all Eisenhower Dollars look the same, think again! The 1972 coins actually came in three different types, and one of them is much harder to find. The 1972 Type 2 Eisenhower Dollar shows the Earth with a different design that makes it stand out from the others. Collectors go nuts trying to find this specific version. Another super cool variety is the 1976 Bicentennial Silver Proof, which has the special dates “1776–1976” on it to celebrate 200 years of America being a country. The back combines the Liberty Bell with the moon, which is such a clever way to honor both American history and space achievement. These silver proof coins have a mirror-like shine that regular coins don’t have. The silver versions are definitely worth more than the regular copper-nickel ones.
What Makes These Coins So Valuable Anyway?
You might wonder why some coins sell for thousands or even millions while others are only worth their face value. It comes down to a few key things that every collector needs to understand. Rarity is huge – if only a few coins were made or even fewer survived, the price goes way up. Condition matters more than almost anything else. Coins get a grade from 1 to 70, with 70 being absolutely perfect like it just came from the mint. The silver content adds value because silver prices change every day based on the market. Collector demand can make prices explode – if everyone wants a certain coin, the price keeps climbing. Coins that have been graded by professional companies like PCGS or NGC are worth more because you know exactly what you’re getting. No mysteries, no surprises.
Why Kids Today Are Getting Into Coin Collecting
You might think coin collecting is just for grandpas, but tons of young people are discovering how cool it really is. Holding a Peace Dollar connects you to 1921 – that’s over 100 years ago! The Eisenhower Dollar lets you touch something that celebrates the moon landing, which is still one of the most amazing things humans have ever done. Some collectors try to put together a complete set with every year and mint mark. Others hunt for that one perfect coin that’ll be the star of their collection. The best part is that you can start without spending much money at all. There are affordable Peace and Eisenhower Dollars out there for beginners. With some research and patience, what starts as a fun hobby could turn into a valuable collection someday.
Essential Tips for New Collectors
- Always grab coins by the edges so your finger oils don’t damage the surfaces
- Keep your coins in special plastic holders made just for collecting
- Never ever clean old coins – it scratches them and kills the value
- Look for coins graded by PCGS or NGC so you know they’re authentic
- Check mintage numbers before buying to see how rare a coin really is
- Learn the difference between proof coins (super shiny) and regular circulation coins
Frequently Asked Questions About Peace and Eisenhower Dollars
Q1: Which Peace Dollar should I look for if I want the most valuable one?
The 1928 Peace Dollar and the 1921 High Relief version are usually the most valuable regular coins, especially if they’re in amazing condition. A perfect 1928 Peace Dollar can sell for crazy money at auction.
Q2: Are Eisenhower Dollars actually made of real silver or just fake metal?
Some special collector versions contain 40% silver, but the regular ones you might find in old piggy banks are just copper and nickel. Check the edge – silver ones don’t have a copper stripe showing.
Q3: Could I find one of these valuable coins in my grandma’s old coin jar?
It’s possible but pretty rare. Most have already been found by collectors or are sitting in collections somewhere. Still, it never hurts to check old coins you come across!
Q4: What does “High Relief” even mean in simple terms?
It means the picture on the coin sticks out more from the surface. Think of it like 3D versus a flat drawing. The design looks more detailed and dramatic because it’s raised up higher.
Q5: Would it help to clean an old dirty coin to make it look better?
Big mistake! Cleaning ruins coins by scratching the surface and removing the natural coloring that collectors love. A cleaned coin is worth way less than an untouched one, even if it looks dirty.
Q6: Where should a beginner buy coins without getting ripped off?
Stick with trusted coin dealers, big auction houses, or coins that already come graded by PCGS or NGC. Stay away from random online sellers without reviews, and never buy from anyone who seems pushy or shady.
Q7: Are proof coins actually a good investment for someone my age?
Proof coins are popular because they look amazing with their mirror finish. Their value depends on how many people want them and what condition they’re in. They can be a solid part of a collection, but don’t put all your money in one coin.
