The Peace Silver Dollar is an iconic piece of American numismatic history, minted to celebrate the end of World War I and embodying the nation’s hope for lasting peace. Struck from 1921 to 1935, these coins are treasured for their design, history, and unique qualities.
The Peace Dollar was designed by Anthony de Francisci, with Lady Liberty on the obverse and a resting eagle clutching an olive branch on the reverse. Though many Peace Dollars were minted, certain rare coins in this series hold exceptional value, commanding top-dollar prices among collectors.
The Top 5 Most Valuable Peace Silver Dollars
Despite being minted in large quantities, certain Peace Dollars stand out for their rarity and condition. Below are the five most valuable Peace Silver Dollars, which together total an impressive $1.5 million in market value.
1. 1921 Peace Dollar (High Relief) – Up to $100,000
The 1921 Peace Dollar marks the beginning of the series and holds a special place for its unique high-relief design. The high relief brought out greater detail but was challenging to mint, resulting in a relatively low number of coins compared to later years. The intricate detail of Lady Liberty and the eagle on the reverse made this coin a visual masterpiece. In high grades, such as MS65 or MS66, a 1921 High Relief Peace Dollar can fetch up to $100,000 due to its rarity and stunning design.
Key Factors:
- First year of the series
- High-relief design and low mintage
- High-grade examples are exceptionally valuable
2. 1928 Peace Dollar – Up to $350,000
The 1928 Peace Dollar is another key date in the series, boasting the lowest mintage among all regular-issue Peace Dollars. Only 360,649 were struck at the Philadelphia Mint, and many of these were either lost or melted down, making this coin extremely rare. This scarcity, combined with its importance to collectors seeking to complete the series, means uncirculated 1928 Peace Dollars in high grades can command prices up to $350,000.
Key Factors:
- Lowest mintage of the series
- High collector demand
- Uncirculated examples are extremely rare and valuable
3. 1934-S Peace Dollar – Up to $125,000
The 1934-S Peace Dollar is challenging to find in excellent condition, which has made it highly desirable. Although over 1 million were minted at the San Francisco Mint, many were circulated heavily, resulting in a scarcity of well-preserved coins. As a result, Peace Dollars from 1934 with an “S” mintmark are especially valuable in higher grades. High-grade specimens (MS65 or higher) can reach prices of $125,000.
Key Factors:
- Limited supply of high-grade examples
- Demand for well-preserved coins
- Produced at the San Francisco Mint, known for fewer high-quality survivors
4. 1927-S Peace Dollar – Up to $180,000
The 1927-S Peace Dollar, minted in San Francisco, is another difficult coin to find in pristine condition. With a mintage of over 800,000, this coin may seem less rare, but many were released into circulation and became heavily worn. Well-preserved 1927-S Peace Dollars in high grades are rare and can be worth as much as $180,000, especially if graded MS66 or higher.
Key Factors:
- High circulation rates and few surviving in mint state
- Relatively low mintage
- Scarcity of well-preserved coins in the series
5. 1935 Peace Dollar (Proof) – Up to $750,000
The 1935 Proof Peace Dollar is the crown jewel of the Peace Dollar series and one of the most coveted coins in American numismatics. Only a few proof specimens were ever struck, and these were not released for general circulation. With a mirror-like finish and exquisite details, this coin is a masterpiece of craftsmanship. The 1935 Proof Peace Dollar is worth up to $750,000, making it the most valuable Peace Dollar due to its extreme rarity and flawless appearance.
Key Factors:
- Exceptionally limited production
- Proof finish with unparalleled detail
- Status as one of the most prized U.S. coins
Factors That Determine the Value of Peace Silver Dollars
Peace Silver Dollars are valuable for several reasons, especially those considered key dates. The following table provides an overview of key factors that drive the value of these historic coins:
| Factor | Description | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Rarity | Coins with low mintages or few survivors | 1928 Peace Dollar, 1935 Proof |
| Condition (Grade) | Coins in high grades (MS65 or above) | 1921 High Relief, 1934-S in MS65 |
| Historical Significance | Coins from notable years or designs | 1921 (first year) and 1935 (final year) |
| Mint Marks | San Francisco Mint coins often rarer | 1927-S, 1934-S |
| Proof Finish | Proofs with mirror-like detail and rarity | 1935 Proof Peace Dollar |
Whether you’re an experienced collector or new to numismatics, owning one of these prized Peace Silver Dollars can be a rewarding investment in both historical significance and market value.
Coins from specific years or with certain mint marks, such as those from San Francisco, are often rarer and hold higher value. Similarly, high-grade examples or proof coins represent some of the rarest and most desirable coins in the Peace Dollar series.
The top five Peace Silver Dollars collectively command over $1.5 million in value, reflecting both their rarity and their place in American history. The Peace Dollar remains a symbol of hope, peace, and change, making these coins valuable both financially and sentimentally for collectors worldwide.
FAQs
Q1: How can I tell if my Peace Silver Dollar is valuable?
Check the coin’s date and mint mark, as certain years, like 1921, 1928, and 1934-S, are especially valuable. Additionally, coins in mint state or proof condition can be worth significantly more. If you suspect it’s rare, consider professional grading.
Q2: What’s the best way to get my Peace Dollar professionally graded?
Submitting your coin to a reputable grading service, like PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service) or NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Corporation), is the best way to authenticate and grade it. Professional grading provides a certification of authenticity, a grade, and a holder that can preserve the coin.
Q3: Are all Peace Silver Dollars made of silver?
Yes, Peace Silver Dollars contain 90% silver and 10% copper, giving them intrinsic value in addition to collectible appeal.
Q4: How can I tell if my Peace Dollar is a proof coin?
Proof Peace Dollars have a mirror-like finish and crisper details compared to regular coins. The 1935 Proof Peace Dollar is one of the rarest proofs, so having it authenticated is crucial if you believe you have one.
Q5: Where should I sell a valuable Peace Silver Dollar?
If you’re looking to sell a valuable coin, consider auction houses, reputable coin dealers, or online marketplaces like eBay. For rare and high-grade coins, an auction house specializing in numismatics may help you get the best price.
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