Are Peace Dollars Worth Collecting?

Are Peace Dollars worth collecting? In the world of numismatics, Peace Dollars stand out as a symbol of hope and unity. These beautiful silver coins, minted from 1921 to 1935, hold both historical and collectible significance. In this blog, we will delve into the in-depth history of Peace Dollars, their current values, the rarest years, the best years for collecting, and the intriguing story behind the elusive 1964 Peace Dollar.

History of Peace Dollars

Peace Dollars were introduced to commemorate the end of World War I and symbolize the hope for lasting peace. Designed by Anthony de Francisci, these coins featured a striking image of Lady Liberty on the obverse. A majestic bald eagle is on the reverse. The series was minted in three distinct phases:

1. 1921 – High Relief: The first year of Peace Dollar production, 1921, featured a high-relief design that made the coins challenging to strike. Due to this, a lower-relief version was introduced later in the year. Collectors highly seek after high-relief Peace Dollars.
2. 1922-1934 – Regular Issues: Peace Dollars from these years were struck in relatively high quantities. While not as rare as the 1921 high-relief version, many collectors find these coins appealing due to their historical significance.
3. 1935 – The Final Year: 1935 marked the end of Peace Dollar production. The coins from this year are the last in the series and hold a special place in the hearts of collectors.

Current Values of Peace Dollars:

The approximate value of a Peace Dollar can vary widely based on factors such as its condition, rarity, and collector demand. As of 2023, here is a rough estimate of the value of common Peace Dollars in circulated condition:

• 1921 High Relief: $500 – $1,500 or more
• 1928 Peace Dollar: $50 – $100
• 1935 Peace Dollar: $20 – $40

Additionally, these coins were only produced for a limited time. They are quite rare and hard to come by. This is why collectors often seek out Peace dollars in mint condition or with certain varieties and errors that can add to their value. For uncirculated or rare variations, the values can be significantly higher.

What Year is the Rarest Peace Dollar?

The rarest Peace Dollar is undoubtedly the 1928 Philadelphia Mint issue. With a mintage of only 360,649, it is highly sought after by collectors and can command a premium price. With only 360,649 coins produced, it ranks as one of the lowest mintages in the entire Peace Dollar series. This scarcity, coupled with its historical significance as one of the later years in the series, has driven collectors to covet it passionately. The combination of its rarity, collector demand, and the fact that it represents one of the final chapters in the Peace Dollar’s production history makes the 1928 Philadelphia Mint Peace Dollar a true numismatic treasure, commanding premium prices in the market and earning its place as a must-have for serious coin collectors.

The Best Years for Peace Dollar Collecting:

The best years for Peace Dollar collecting largely depend on personal preferences. Collectors often focus on the following years for their historical significance and availability:

• 1921 (High Relief) – for its rarity and historical importance
• 1928 – due to its extreme rarity and value
• 1934 and 1935 – as the final years of the series

Are Peace Dollars Worth Collecting?

Absolutely! Unlike many other coin collections, Peace dollars are rare enough that they can add value to your overall portfolio. They offer a unique blend of history, artistry, and collectibility. Collecting Peace Dollars can be a rewarding hobby whether you are a seasoned numismatist or a beginner. They also make great investments, as their value tends to appreciate over time.

What’s the difference between a Morgan Dollar and a Peace Dollar?

Morgan Dollars and Peace Dollars are two iconic silver coin series minted by the United States. They share a common heritage but possess distinct characteristics that appeal to collectors differently. The Morgan Dollar, minted from 1878 to 1904 and again in 1921, bears the iconic image of Lady Liberty on the obverse and a majestic eagle on the reverse. Known for its intricate and detailed design, the Morgan Dollar captures the spirit of the American frontier era.

In contrast, the Peace Dollar, minted from 1921 to 1935, was created to symbolize hope and peace after World War I. It features a more modernistic design with Lady Liberty and a perched bald eagle. While Morgan Dollars tend to be more readily available due to their longer production period, Peace Dollars offer a sense of historical significance and unity. Collectors often choose between these two series based on their preferences for either the classical and detailed beauty of the Morgan Dollar or the symbolically rich and sleek design of the Peace Dollar.

The Mystery of the 1964 Peace Dollar:

The 1964 Peace Dollar is a topic of intrigue among collectors because it technically doesn’t exist. The United States Mint had plans to issue a 1964 Peace Dollar to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the end of World War II. However, the project was scrapped, and no 1964 Peace Dollars were officially minted for circulation. The few known specimens are considered unauthorized and illegal to own, making them a fascinating but elusive piece of numismatic history.

In conclusion, Peace Dollars are more than just coins; they are symbols of peace and unity with a rich history and collectible appeal. Whether you are interested in their historical significance, rarity, or aesthetic beauty, collecting Peace Dollars is a hobby that can be both enjoyable and rewarding.