Following a gap of more than 30 years, the United States Mint resumed production of the circulating dollar coin. The new series known as the Eisenhower Dollars were struck from 1971 to 1978. Production of circulating coins took place at the Philadelphia and Denver Mint facilities. The San Francisco Mint also struck 40% silver versions of the coins for collectors.
The origin of the new Eisenhower Dollar series traces back to 1969. At that time, the idea was conceived to create a new dollar coin that would honor former President and Five Star General Dwight D. Eisenhower, who had died that year. The successful Apollo 11 space flight, which carried man to the moon that year, would also be commemorated. Authorizing legislation for the new series was eventually passed in late 1970. Production of dollar coins struck in copper nickel for circulation and 40% silver for collectors was authorized.
The obverse design for the Eisenhower Dollar features a right facing portrait of the former President. US Mint Chief Sculptor and Engraver Frank Gasparro tried to capture the strength and character of this important man. The reverse of the coin, also designed by Gasparro, was based on the Apollo 11 space flight insignia. A bald eagle is pictured landing on the moon, carrying an olive branch. This hearkens back to the statement, “The eagle has landed.”
The design of the Eisenhower Dollar underwent a major alteration in 1976. The original reverse design was replaced with a special design created for America’s Bicentennial. Dennis R. Williams was the winner of a contest held by the National Sculptor Society. The new design featured an image of the Liberty Bell superimposed over an image of the moon. After 1976, the original design was restored.
One of the important highlights of the Eisenhower Dollar series was the issuance of coins struck in a composition containing silver, creating a modern silver dollar. The San Francisco Mint had been authorized to strike up to 150 million coins in 40% silver. These coins were not issued for circulation, but sold directly to collectors in proof or uncirculated versions. The 1976 Bicentennial Dollar was also struck in the 40% composition and sold to collectors as part of a set.
Want to find out more about Eisenhower Dollars, then visit the site to find release details and mintages for each year of issue like the 1971 Eisenhower Dollar.
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