The 1974 United States One Dollar Coin, also known as the Eisenhower Dollar, is a significant numismatic piece that showcases the country's rich history and symbolic representation. Introduced in 1971, the Eisenhower Dollar was the first dollar coin to be minted since the Peace Dollar series ended in 1965. The 1974 issue is particularly notable for its unique characteristics and historical context. As a domain expert in numismatics, it is essential to delve into the specifics of this coin, exploring its design, minting process, and the socio-economic climate of the time.
Design and Minting Process
The 1974 Eisenhower Dollar features a striking design, with the obverse (front) side portraying a portrait of the 34th President of the United States, Dwight D. Eisenhower. The reverse (back) side showcases an image of an eagle landing on the moon, symbolizing the Apollo 11 moon landing in 1969. The coin’s design was created by Frank Gasparro, the Chief Engraver of the United States Mint at the time. The minting process involved a combination of copper and nickel, with a total weight of 22.68 grams and a diameter of 38.1 millimeters. The coin’s edge is reeded, providing a distinctive texture and preventing wear.
Key Points
- The 1974 Eisenhower Dollar is a copper-nickel clad coin, comprising 75% copper and 25% nickel.
- The coin's diameter is 38.1 millimeters, with a thickness of 2.58 millimeters.
- The mint mark is located above the eagle's tail feathers on the reverse side, with Philadelphia-minted coins bearing no mint mark.
- The coin's mintage was 27,720,000 pieces, making it a relatively common issue among collectors.
- The 1974 Eisenhower Dollar is a significant example of the United States' shift towards copper-nickel clad coins, reducing the amount of silver used in coinage.
Historical Context and Significance
The 1974 Eisenhower Dollar was minted during a period of significant social and economic change in the United States. The country was still reeling from the effects of the Vietnam War, and the Watergate scandal was unfolding. The coin’s design, featuring an eagle landing on the moon, served as a symbol of American ingenuity and achievement. The Eisenhower Dollar was also the first dollar coin to be minted with a copper-nickel clad composition, marking a shift away from silver-based coinage. This change was driven by the rising cost of silver and the need to reduce production costs.
| Mintage Figures | Number of Coins Minted |
|---|---|
| Philadelphia | 15,152,000 |
| Denver | 8,517,000 |
| San Francisco (Proof) | 2,632,000 |
Collectibility and Value
The 1974 Eisenhower Dollar is a relatively common coin among collectors, with a mintage of over 27 million pieces. However, the coin’s value can vary significantly depending on its condition, rarity, and demand. In mint state, the 1974 Eisenhower Dollar can be worth between 1.50 and 10, depending on the grade and mint mark. Proof coins, which were minted in San Francisco, can command higher prices due to their limited mintage and higher quality finish.
When evaluating the collectibility and value of the 1974 Eisenhower Dollar, it's crucial to consider factors such as the coin's condition, rarity, and demand. The Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) and the Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC) provide grading services that can help determine the coin's authenticity and condition. As with any collectible item, the value of the 1974 Eisenhower Dollar can fluctuate over time, making it essential for collectors to stay informed about market trends and developments.
Technical Specifications and Variations
The 1974 Eisenhower Dollar has several technical specifications that are worth noting. The coin’s weight is 22.68 grams, with a diameter of 38.1 millimeters and a thickness of 2.58 millimeters. The edge is reeded, providing a distinctive texture and preventing wear. The coin’s composition is 75% copper and 25% nickel, with a copper-nickel clad layer over a core of pure copper.
In addition to the standard issue, there are several variations of the 1974 Eisenhower Dollar that are of interest to collectors. These include the 1974-D, which was minted in Denver, and the 1974-S, which was minted in San Francisco. The 1974-S is particularly notable, as it was minted in proof condition and features a higher quality finish than the standard issue.
What is the mintage of the 1974 Eisenhower Dollar?
+The mintage of the 1974 Eisenhower Dollar is 27,720,000 pieces.
What is the composition of the 1974 Eisenhower Dollar?
+The 1974 Eisenhower Dollar is a copper-nickel clad coin, comprising 75% copper and 25% nickel.
What is the value of the 1974 Eisenhower Dollar in mint state?
+The value of the 1974 Eisenhower Dollar in mint state can range from $1.50 to $10, depending on the grade and mint mark.
In conclusion, the 1974 United States One Dollar Coin is a fascinating piece of American numismatic history, reflecting the country’s achievements in space exploration and its efforts to adapt to changing economic and social circumstances. As a collector’s item, the coin offers a unique opportunity to own a piece of history, with its value and collectibility driven by factors such as condition, rarity, and demand. Whether you’re a seasoned numismatist or just starting your collection, the 1974 Eisenhower Dollar is an excellent addition to any portfolio.
