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The 1971 Eisenhower Dollar coin is a tribute to one of America’s most influential leaders and a symbol of the nation’s soaring ambition during the Space Age. No matter who you are—a collector with a huge experience behind or simply someone who loves history and interesting facts—this coin will teach or remind you of the brightest moments in the 20th century just like the 1 cent 1974.
Today you’re going to find out everything: its history, significance, 1971 dollar coin value, and even more.
A Time of Transition: The Historical Backdrop
Dwight D. Eisenhower is the man honored on this coin. He was no ordinary president—he was a five-star general, the Supreme Commander of Allied Forces during World War II, and a two-term U.S. president (1953–1961). His leadership during WWII helped shape the post-war world, and his presidency was marked by relative peace, economic prosperity, and the steady, strategic management of Cold War tensions.
The president passed away in 1969, the same year the United States made history with the Apollo 11 moon landing. To commemorate both the beloved general-turned-president and the country’s monumental achievement in space exploration, the U.S. Mint introduced the coin in 1971.
Types of 1971 Dollar Coins and Their Values
1. 1971 Specimen (Copper-Nickel)
Obverse (Front):
Design: The obverse features a portrait of the president facing left. The portrait was designed by artist Frank Gasparro, who used a photo from the 1950s as the model.
Inscriptions: "LIBERTY", "IN GOD WE TRUST", and the year "1971" appear around the edge of the portrait.
Reverse (Back):
Design: The reverse of the coin depicts an eagle landing on the Moon, with the Earth in the background.
Inscriptions: "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA", "E PLURIBUS UNUM" (Latin for "Out of Many, One"), and "ONE DOLLAR" surround the design.
Outer Layer: Copper-Nickel (75% Copper, 25% Nickel)
Weight: 22.68 grams
Diameter: 38.1 mm
Edge: Reeded
2. 1971-S Silver Proof One
Obverse (Front):
Design: Same as the standard one.
Inscriptions: "LIBERTY", "IN GOD WE TRUST", and "1971" appear around the portrait.
Reverse (Back):
Design: Same as the standard issue.
Inscriptions: "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA", "E PLURIBUS UNUM", and "ONE DOLLAR" surround the image.
1971 Eisenhower dollar silver content: 80% Silver, 20% Copper
Weight: 24.59 grams
Diameter: 38.1 mm
Edge: Reeded
Estimated 1971 One Dollar Coin Value
Now, let’s talk more in detail about the value of Eisenhower silver dollar 1971 and its other types if you want to sell your coins.
Type | Sums |
1971 D Eisenhower dollar value | $1.50 - $10 |
1971 Eisenhower silver dollar value D | $20 - $50 |
1971 Eisenhower uncirculated silver dollar value | $25 - $70 |
1971 Eisenhower proof dollar value (silver) | $50 - $150 |
Disclaimer: The prices are average. If you want to know how much is a 1971 Eisenhower dollar worth, we recommend that you contact certified centers for grading and valuation. There you can find out why is a 1971 Eisenhower silver dollar worth so much?
Factors That Impact One Dollar Coin 1971 Value
Condition (Grade): Coins graded by professional numismatic organizations (like PCGS or NGC) often have higher 1971 1 dollar coin value than those without a grade.
Special Varieties: Some Eisenhower dollar 1971 pieces may exhibit slight die errors, such as off-center strikes, which can increase their value among collectors.
Silver Content: While the regular pieces are made of copper-nickel, the Eisenhower proof dollar 1971 is more valuable due to its silver content.
Why This Coin Should Be in Your Collection
These pieces really hold a part of the huge American history. They commemorate a president who led the country through war and peace, while simultaneously celebrating one of humankind’s greatest achievements—the moon landing.
As a collector, owning such coins, e.g., a 1971 uncirculated Eisenhower silver dollar, means much, not only money, because its design, historical significance, and precious silver content stand it out in any collection.
The value of 1971 Eisenhower dollar may vary (use an old coin value checker), but it’s more about other aspects: It’s not a simple coin. It’s a reminder of America’s strength, innovation, and triumphs—both on the battlefield and on the moon.
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