The 1971-D Eisenhower Dollar is an important coin in U.S. history. It was minted to honor President Dwight D. Eisenhower and the Apollo 11 moon landing. This coin, made between 1971 and 1978, was the last large dollar coin for general circulation. The 1971-D Eisenhower Dollar, minted in Denver, holds value based on its condition, rarity, and other factors.
Let’s dive into what makes this coin valuable!
History of the Eisenhower Dollar
The Eisenhower Dollar was created to celebrate two important events:
- Dwight D. Eisenhower: The 34th President of the United States.
- Apollo 11 Mission: The first time humans landed on the moon.
The coin’s obverse (front) shows a portrait of President Eisenhower, while the reverse (back) features an eagle landing on the moon, symbolizing the Apollo 11 mission.
1971-D Eisenhower Dollar Details
- Minted in: Denver (marked with “D”)
- Composition: Copper-Nickel Clad
- Weight: 22.68 grams
- Diameter: 38.1 mm
- Designer: Frank Gasparro
- Total Mintage: Over 68 million
How the 1971-D Eisenhower Dollar’s Value is Determined
The value of a 1971-D Eisenhower Dollar depends on its grade (condition) and whether there are any minting errors. Coins in better condition are worth more, while those in lower grades are often worth just face value ($1).
Here’s a table showing the value based on the coin’s grade:
| Grade | Value (USD) |
|---|---|
| MS-67 | $963 |
| MS-66 | $63 |
| MS-65 | $29 |
| MS-64 | $19 |
| MS-63 | $16 |
| Uncirculated | $90 |
| Almost Uncirculated (AU) | $1 |
| Extra Fine (XF) | $1 |
| Very Fine (VF) | $1 |
| Fine (F) | $1 |
| Very Good (VG) | $1 |
| Good (G) | $1 |
What Affects the Value?
- Grade and Condition: Coins in Mint State (MS) have no wear and keep their original shine, making them more valuable.
- Minting Errors: Special coins with errors like off-center strikes or double dies can be worth much more.
- Popularity Among Collectors: Coins with high grades or rare errors are more in demand.
Where to Buy or Sell 1971-D Eisenhower Dollars
If you want to buy or sell a 1971-D Eisenhower Dollar, here are some good options:
- Online Marketplaces: Sites like eBay or Heritage Auctions have a wide range of these coins.
- Coin Dealers: Local dealers can help appraise and trade your coins.
- Coin Shows: These are great places to meet collectors and trade coins.
Conclusion
The 1971-D Eisenhower Dollar is more than just a coin—it’s a piece of American history. While lower-grade coins are often worth only a dollar, high-grade versions and coins with errors can be worth hundreds. If you’re interested in collecting or investing, look for coins in better condition to get the most value.
FAQ’s
What is the 1971-D Eisenhower Dollar made of?
The 1971-D Eisenhower Dollar is made of a copper-nickel clad composition, which consists of a layer of copper sandwiched between two layers of nickel.
How much is a 1971-D Eisenhower Dollar worth in circulated condition?
In circulated condition, the 1971-D Eisenhower Dollar is typically worth around $1, as it is common and mass-produced. Higher-grade coins or those with minting errors can be worth more.
Are minting errors on the 1971-D Eisenhower Dollar valuable?
Yes, minting errors like off-center strikes or double dies can greatly increase the value of a 1971-D Eisenhower Dollar, often making it much more valuable than standard versions.
