The 1974 Silver Dollar: Investment or Just a Cool Coin?

These days, stumbling upon the 1974 Eisenhower dollar in circulation is almost impossible (and If you are lucky enough to find one, it is likely from someone who spent it without realizing its collectible appeal). The large, heavy coins were never favored when it came to regular transactions, and most of them have long since been utilized in casinos, melted down, or hidden in private collections. 

Anyway, does the 1974 dollar coin have investment potential, or is it just a peculiar relic of the past? Are there any features that identify this coin as rare, and what could it be sold for these days? Let us check. 

Background of the 1974 Silver Dollar

As such, the 1974 one dollar coin belongs to the series of Eisenhower dollars, originally struck between 1971 and 1978 to commemorate the Apollo 11 moon landing and to pay tribute to President Dwight D. Eisenhower. Prior to the release of the smaller Susan B. Anthony Dollar in 1979, this big, bold piece was the last dollar in circulation with a diameter of 38.1 mm and the first dollar issued since the Peace Dollar, which was last struck in 1935.

This commemoration is apparent, by the way. The reverse design of the Eisenhower dollar depicts an eagle landing on the moon, and the obverse demonstrates the profile of President Eisenhower, a key figure in WWII and the 34th President of the United States. 

Although the coin was a symbol of national pride, it was not widely employed in daily transactions because of its large size and weight. Many Americans preferred smaller denominations or paper bills instead, and by the late 1970s, the government tried to look for a more convenient alternative, which was released in 1979.

What Makes a 1974 Silver Dollar Rare? 

In order to define the 1974 silver dollar value, it is of great importance to explore the main features and possible variations of the coin. What if something unique is hidden in front of your eyes?  

Related article: 1953 Wheat Penny.

Design

The design of the 1974 Eisenhower dollar is really captivating in terms of its historical relevance, as it referred to two significant phenomena, i.e., the legacy of the US president and the national space exploration achievements. What are the major features of this instance released not long ago, in 1974?

Have you ever thought about why coins from different countries place portraits facing either left or right? In the UK, for example, there is a long-lasting tradition to alternate the direction of their monarch’s portrait with each reign. 

To learn more about principles and rules of portrayal, explore the content provided by Coin ID Scanner. It is a reliable, innovative tool for quick coin identification, collection management, and numismatic enlightenment! 

Mintage Figures

In 1974, the one dollar coin was minted by three main facilities in the US, i.e., Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco Mints. However, the varieties and quantities differ from mint to mint. 

As one may see, San Francisco struck both clad and silver versions, but all were intended for collectors rather than circulation. What is more, proofs have special attributes that may boost the 1974 dollar coin value even more.

Designations

Eisenhower Dollars are graded according to their contrast and finish. There are three designations (i.e., attributed) available for the 1974 Eisenhower proof dollar which is struck in 40% silver or clad.

• PR (Proof): Standard mirror-like proof finish.

• CAM (Cameo): Moderate contrast between frosted design elements and mirrored fields.

• DCAM (Deep Cameo): Dramatic, deep contrast with thick frost on the raised details and a highly reflective background.

For collectors, DCAM is considered the most valuable and attractive. However, it does not necessarily mean that they can be sold for higher prices.  

Errors

Anomalies always increase the worth of a coin significantly. However, the more captivating the error, the more it may cost in the end. Here are unique, exclusive occurrences that one may find interesting to obtain in terms of this particular coin. 

• Doubled Die Obverse/Reverse: When the design is accidentally struck twice at slightly different angles, some details may get doubled. This is what we call a doubled die obverse/reverse.

• D/S Mint Mark (D Over S) – 2nd Strike 98% Off-Center: In this uncommon version, a 1974 D Eisenhower Dollar is struck over a coin that was minted in San Francisco, which leaves a faint "S" beneath the "D" mint mark. 

• 1974-D Struck on a 40% Silver Planchet: The majority of 1974 Eisenhower dollars from Denver were supposed to be copper-nickel clad, but some were struck on 40% silver planchets, which were only meant for collector coins from San Francisco. Distinguishable by their weight (24.59g vs. 22.68g for clad).

Investment Potential

Eisenhower dollars can be common in circulated conditions, selling for the face value or slightly above. High-quality uncirculated and proof examples, particularly those with deep cameo designation, can command substantial prices at auctions, yet clad versions (unless they have noticeable flaws) usually sell for $1 to $5.

Auctions are always surprising, for it is difficult to predict how much money collectors are ready to spend. For your convenience, we have compiled a table of the most impressive auction records for the 1974 Eisenhower dollar in different grades and finishes.

So as to understand if your coin may command the same prices, it is recommended to appeal to reputable grading services like PCGS or NGC, as well as to ask for a professional evaluation. This may reveal the potential price, though it heavily relies on the current demand (which cannot be explained at times).

Related article: How Much Is a 1919 Lincoln Penny Worth?

Should You Buy One? 

If you are a professional collector or investor with expertise, a high-grade 1974 Eisenhower dollar can be a significant addition to your numismatic assemblage. Anyway, do your research, buy from reliable sources, and pay attention to quality first. 

Have fun collecting!

Sources: 

1. https://www.pcgs.com/coinfacts/coin/1974-1/7415

2. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eisenhower_dollar