In 1971, following legislation passed the previous year, the U.S. Mint introduced a new $1 coin for the first time since 1935, when the Peace dollar series ended. These new coins, named Eisenhower dollars, were made using the same copper-nickel composition as dimes and quarters, but maintained the larger, hefty size of the old silver dollars. The coins were composed of outer layers of .750 copper and .250 nickel bonded to an inner core of pure copper.
These dollars were issued as a tribute to General Dwight D. Eisenhower, the popular World War II general and former U.S. president, whose left-facing bust appears on the obverse. The design was inspired by a sketch drawn by Frank Gasparro after a 1945 World War II parade.
On the reverse, the coin honors the 1969 Apollo 11 moon landing, also designed by Gasparro, who was then the Chief Engraver at the Mint. The design was based on the Apollo 11 mission patch, which was created by astronaut Michael Collins.
In 1975, the reverse design was changed by art student Dennis Williams to commemorate the nation’s bicentennial. These dual-dated coins (1975-1976) featured the famous Liberty Bell superimposed over the moon and were popular among both the public and collectors.
The Legacy of Dwight D. Eisenhower
Dwight D. Eisenhower, often referred to as “Ike,” served as the 34th President of the United States for two terms from 1953 to 1961. Born in 1890 in Denison, Texas, he became a significant figure in both American military and political history.
Early Life and Military Career
Eisenhower grew up in a religious and modest family in Abilene, Kansas. Excelling in sports, he earned a spot at West Point, where he graduated in 1915. Though his early military career involved stateside postings, he gained valuable experience, especially during World War I, where he trained tank crews.
World War II Leadership
Eisenhower’s career breakthrough came during World War II. In 1942, he was appointed commander of Allied Forces for Operation Torch in North Africa. His success earned him the role of Supreme Commander of the Allied Expeditionary Forces in 1943. Eisenhower orchestrated Operation Overlord, the D-Day invasion of Normandy on June 6, 1944, which played a pivotal role in defeating Nazi Germany.
Post-War and Presidency
After the war, Eisenhower held several prominent positions, including Army Chief of Staff and President of Columbia University, before becoming the first Supreme Commander of NATO. He later returned to the U.S. and successfully ran for president.
Eisenhower’s presidency was marked by his moderate political stance. Domestically, he expanded Social Security, started the Interstate Highway System, and oversaw the end of the Korean War. His foreign policy was dominated by Cold War tensions, as he sought to contain the spread of communism, endorsing a policy of massive retaliation against the Soviet Union.
The Appeal of Eisenhower Dollars
Between 1971 and 1978, the U.S. Mint produced Eisenhower dollars, including 150 million coins struck in 40% silver for collectors. These silver dollars came in two varieties: mint state Ike dollars packaged in blue envelopes and Proof Eisenhower dollars in plastic cases, housed in brown boxes. This led to the classification of these coins as blue and brown Ike dollars. In addition, silver Bicentennial Ikes were produced, made from layers of .800 silver and .200 copper, bonded to an inner core of .209 silver and .791 copper, resulting in a silver weight of .3161 ounces.
While these coins were circulated, they were largely unsuccessful as general currency, except in areas like Las Vegas, where 70% of the clad coins ended up in casinos. When first released, Eisenhower dollars were hoarded by the public due to their novelty and because of Eisenhower’s popularity. However, most people disliked carrying such large, heavy coins, contributing to the series ending in 1978, after more than 640 million coins were minted.
FAQs
What makes Eisenhower dollars collectible?
Eisenhower dollars are collectible due to their historic significance, limited mintage in silver, and their tribute to General Dwight D. Eisenhower and the Apollo 11 moon landing.
Why did the U.S. Mint stop producing Eisenhower dollars?
The series ended in 1978 due to the coins’ lack of popularity in everyday transactions, largely because of their size and weight.
What is the difference between blue and brown Ike dollars?
Blue Ike dollars are mint state coins packaged in blue envelopes, while brown Ike dollars are proof coins sold in plastic cases with a brown box.
What materials are Eisenhower dollars made from?
Circulating Eisenhower dollars are made from copper-nickel, while collector versions were minted in 40% silver.
Why are Bicentennial Eisenhower dollars special?
The Bicentennial Eisenhower dollars, issued from 1975-1976, feature a unique reverse design by Dennis Williams showing the Liberty Bell in front of the moon to celebrate the U.S. Bicentennial.