Exploring the Rich History and Intricacies of the Peace Silver Dollar- A Comprehensive Guide
What is a Peace Silver Dollar?
The Peace Silver Dollar, also known as the Peace Dollar, is a United States coin that was minted from 1921 to 1935. It was designed by sculptor Anthony de Francisci and was intended to commemorate the peace that followed World War I. This coin holds significant historical and numismatic value, making it a highly sought-after piece among collectors. In this article, we will delve into the history, design, and significance of the Peace Silver Dollar.
The Peace Silver Dollar was introduced in response to the popularity of the Morgan Silver Dollar, which had been minted from 1878 to 1904. As the name suggests, the Peace Dollar was created to honor the peace that had been achieved after the end of World War I. The coin was also meant to symbolize the United States’ role in the war and its commitment to maintaining global peace.
The design of the Peace Silver Dollar is considered one of the most beautiful in American coinage history. The obverse (front) of the coin features Lady Liberty walking towards the sun, symbolizing the dawn of peace. She is surrounded by the inscriptions “IN GOD WE TRUST” and “LIBERTY,” with the date of minting at the bottom. The reverse (back) of the coin depicts an eagle with wings spread, clutching an olive branch and arrows, symbolizing both peace and the country’s military might. The inscriptions on the reverse include “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” “ONE DOL.” and “PEACE.”
The Peace Silver Dollar was minted in three different compositions: 90% silver, 90% silver with 10% copper, and 90% silver with 10% copper and 0.1% manganese. The coin’s diameter is 38.1 millimeters, and it weighs approximately 26.73 grams. The 90% silver Peace Dollars are particularly valuable to collectors, as they contain a significant amount of precious metal.
During its minting period, the Peace Silver Dollar faced several challenges. The Great Depression in the 1930s led to a decline in the coin’s production, and the government eventually suspended the minting of the coin in 1935. This suspension was due to the silver crisis and the government’s desire to reduce the silver stockpile.
Collectors value the Peace Silver Dollar for several reasons. The coin’s historical significance, beautiful design, and limited minting years make it a highly desirable piece. Additionally, the varying compositions and mint marks of the coin contribute to its numismatic value. The Peace Silver Dollar is categorized into several series, including the “regular” issues, the “CC” (Carson City) issues, and the “S” (San Francisco) issues, each with its own unique characteristics and value.
In conclusion, the Peace Silver Dollar is a significant coin in American history and numismatics. Its design, minting history, and the events surrounding its production make it a cherished piece among collectors. Whether you are a history buff, a coin enthusiast, or simply interested in the artistry of coinage, the Peace Silver Dollar is a coin worth exploring.
