Description

The Eisenhower dollar is a one-dollar coin issued by the United States Mint from 1971 to 1978; it was the first coin of that denomination issued by the Mint since the Peace dollar series ended in 1935. The coin depicts both the death of General Dwight David Eisenhower.

1976 was the 200th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Though actual independence was not won until the end of the Revolutionary War in 1783, the year 1776 has always held a special place in the hearts of Americans. Thus, it was felt fitting to create a numismatic tribute to this special anniversary and new reverse designs were created for the Washington Quarter Dollar, Kennedy Half Dollar, and Eisenhower Dollar.

The obverse of Eisenhower (Ike) Dollar was designed by the Mint Chief Engraver Frank Gasparro (FG). The reverse designs for the three Bicentennial coins were determined by a design competition open to the public. This competition closed in January 1974, and in March, a design submitted by 22-year-old art student Dennis R. Williams (DRW) was selected for the dollar. Williams, the youngest person to that point to design a U.S. coin. Gasparro slightly modified the design, simplifying the features visible on the lunar surface, and altering the lettering and the bell.

One Proof Bicentennial Eisenhower Dollar in silver clad and lacking a mint mark is known. This piece supposedly was found in 1977 in a Woodward and Lathrup Department store in the Washington District area. This coin is probably the rarest non-error modern coin in existence. It is currently owned by Mitchell Spivack, Modern Coin Expert.