If you own an old collection of coins, now is a great time to search through it. The Peace Dollar Coin from the early 20th century may have great value. Some of these pieces, which were produced after the Great War for the purpose of commemorating peace, are now commanding remarkable auction prices, the most notable one being a 1921 Peace Dollar that was recently purchased for a staggering $132,000. So, let’s get into the specifics of these coins, the moment in history they belong to, and how you can make a fortune out of it.
What is a Peace Dollar coin?
The Peace Dollar was first minted by the U.S. Mint in the year 1921 as a celebration of peace that ensued after the First World War. The coin was designed by Anthony de Francisci, and it has on the front side, an elegant depiction of Lady Liberty wearing a crown, while on the back, there is an edited version of the original work bald eagle on the rock with sun rising in the background.
- Minting years: 1921 to 1928 and again in 1934 and 1935.
- Silver composition: 90% silver, which already gives them some intrinsic value.
Collectors and historians prize Peace Dollars not only for their beautiful design but also for their historical significance.
Why are some Peace Dollar coins so valuable?
While most Peace Dollars were used in everyday transactions and are worth only a little bit more than their silver content, there are certain editions that coin collectors are on the lookout for. The most valuable Peace Dollar is the 1921 “high relief” version, known for its design that required extra silver to strike. This version of the coin is particularly rare due to its unique production process, which is why the coin is much more expensive, especially at auctions. leading to a much higher price at auction.
- 1921 High Relief: One of these coins set an auction record at $132,000 in 2018.
- Rarity: The 1928-P (Philadelphia mint) edition is another rare variety, with only 360,000 coins minted.
How much are Peace Dollar coins worth?
The value of a Peace Dollar depends on its condition, rarity, and year of minting. While the $132,000 auction standouts, most Peace Dollars in circulation are valued much lower. But even those can be worth significantly more than face value, especially in good condition. Below is a list of some of the most valuable Peace Dollar coins:
- 1928 S Peace Dollar: Up to $16,500
- 1925 S Peace Dollar: Up to $15,000
- 1924 S Peace Dollar: Around $8,200
- 1934 S Peace Dollar: Around $8,000
- 1927 S Peace Dollar: Up to $6,200
For most collectors, finding one of these coins in good condition is a prize. But even more common versions can fetch between $100 to $300.
How to know if your Peace Dollar is valuable
If you have a Peace Dollar in your possession, there are a few things you’ll want to check to determine its potential value:
- Mint year: Coins from 1921 and 1928 are among the most valuable.
- Condition: Coins in near-mint condition will fetch higher prices. Look for any signs of wear.
- Mint mark: The mint mark on the coin indicates where it was produced. Some mints, like the Philadelphia mint, produced fewer coins, making them rarer.
If you think your Peace Dollar is valuable, you can take it to a coin expert or appraiser to get a more precise valuation.
