In the early 1970s, most people in America didn’t think much about dollar coins. However, the gaming industry quickly realized it needed a new coin to replace the silver dollars it had been using in slot machines.
This, along with the recent death of Dwight D. Eisenhower, a former president and World War II hero, presented an opportunity for Congress to address the demand for a new dollar coin. Mary Brooks, the director of the United States Mint at the time, pushed for the new dollar coin to be struck in silver.
But Congress opted for the same copper-nickel composition used in dimes and quarters. A compromise allowed for a special silver-clad version to be sold to collectors, and this silver-clad Eisenhower dollar is what collectors often find valuable today.
What to Look for in a 1971 Eisenhower Dollar?
The design of the 1971 Eisenhower dollar features President Eisenhower on one side and an image inspired by the Apollo 11 mission on the reverse, showing an eagle landing on the moon. Coins minted in Denver and San Francisco have small “D” or “S” mint marks, while those from Philadelphia have none. The exact placement of the mint mark may vary, making some versions more unique.
While the copper-nickel versions are generally only worth their face value, collectors seek out the silver-clad versions from San Francisco, which contain 40% silver. The easiest way to check if your coin is a silver-clad version is to look for an “S” mint mark and a solid silver stripe along the edge.
A $60 Million Windfall from a 25-Cent Coin? The Rare Bicentennial Quarters You Need to Know About!
Rare 1971 Eisenhower Dollar Varieties
Several varieties of the 1971 Eisenhower dollar are especially valuable to collectors:
- Friendly Eagle Variety (1971-D): This version has a slightly altered eagle design, which looks less aggressive than the usual depiction. It is relatively rare and highly sought after.
- Peg Leg “R” (1971-S Proof): On this version, the “R” in LIBERTY is missing its base serifs, giving it a “peg leg” appearance. This variant is often attributed to over-polishing of the dies and fetches a higher price.
How Much Is a 1971 Eisenhower Dollar Worth?
The value of a 1971 Eisenhower dollar depends heavily on its condition and composition. The copper-nickel versions generally have a low value, around 21 cents, far below their face value. However, a silver-clad coin in mint condition could be worth about $16. Proof silver versions, often sold directly to collectors, have a melt value of around $6.16 due to their silver content.
If you find a “Friendly Eagle” version, it could be worth around $23, while regular uncirculated Eisenhower dollars minted in Philadelphia or Denver typically range from $5 to $7.
Hidden for a Century: The $1 Gold Coin Hoard That Could Rewrite History (Assembled by a Legend!)
Where to Buy or Sell a 1971 Eisenhower Dollar
If you have a 1971 Eisenhower dollar, especially the rarer varieties, there are several places to buy or sell these coins. Online marketplaces like eBay and Etsy are common options for buying and selling Eisenhower dollars. For silver-clad versions, pawnbrokers or silver dealers may also be interested in purchasing them for their silver content.
Coin collecting forums and coin dealers can help you identify whether your coin is a rarer version, such as the “Friendly Eagle,” and provide guidance on the best places to sell it.
Conclusion
The 1971 Eisenhower dollar may not seem like much at first glance, but certain varieties and silver-clad versions can be quite valuable to collectors. If you have one of these coins, especially one with an “S” mint mark or a rare variety, it’s worth taking a closer look. You could be holding onto a piece of history – and a coin worth more than you expect.
Ethan is a passionate rare coin collector with years of experience uncovering the stories and history behind unique coins. His insightful articles are a go-to for anyone curious about coin values or their fascinating backstories.