1991-D $1 Korean War Silver Commem – BU

The 1991-D $1 Korean War Silver Commemorative Dollar stands as a powerful tribute to one of America's most significant yet often overlooked conflicts. This meticulously crafted silver dollar marks the 38th anniversary of the Korean War, a symbolic choice reflecting the division between North and South Korea at the 38th parallel. Authorized by Congress and signed into law by President George H.W. Bush on October 31, 1990, this commemorative piece represents more than just currency—it embodies a nation's gratitude to those who served.

The Korean War, often referred to as "The Forgotten War," lasted from 1951 to 1953 and saw more than 36,000 American lives lost. This commemorative dollar served a dual purpose: honoring the brave men and women who served and helping fund the construction of the Korean War Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C. Through the surcharges raised from this commemorative program, Americans could directly contribute to ensuring these veterans received proper recognition.

Designed by two of the U.S. Mint's most respected artists, John Mercanti (obverse) and T. James Ferrell (reverse), this coin captures both the intensity of the conflict and its historical significance. The Denver Mint struck only 213,049 of these uncirculated silver dollars, far below the maximum authorized mintage of one million, making this a relatively scarce modern commemorative issue.

What makes this commemorative piece particularly fascinating is its culturally significant reverse design featuring the Korean peninsula with the symbolic division at the 38th parallel. The inclusion of the yin and yang symbol in South Korea represents harmony and balance—elements tragically disrupted by the war but aspired to in its aftermath. This thoughtful design element connects numismatic art with profound cultural symbolism.

The coin's release in 1991 came during a period of significant change in global politics, with the Cold War ending and a new world order emerging. In this context, this commemorative dollar served as a reminder of earlier conflicts in the ongoing struggle for democracy and freedom around the world—themes that continue to resonate today.

Design Features

The obverse design, masterfully executed by John Mercanti, depicts the raw courage of those who served in Korea. A determined soldier charges uphill with rifle in hand, embodying the tenacity of American forces. In the background, naval vessels appear in the foreground waters while two F-86 Sabre jets soar overhead, representing the comprehensive military effort across all branches of service. The inscriptions "Thirty Eighth Anniversary Commemorative Korea" and "In God We Trust" frame the design, while "1953 1991" mark the war's end and the commemorative year. The word "Liberty" appears at the base, reinforcing the fundamental American value defended in the conflict.

The reverse design by T. James Ferrell presents a geopolitical perspective with a map of Korea clearly showing the division at the 38th parallel. The South Korean portion features the traditional yin and yang symbol, representing balance and harmony in Korean culture. To the left of the peninsula, a watchful American bald eagle's head appears, symbolizing America's protective presence and commitment to South Korea's freedom. The inscriptions "One Dollar," "E Pluribus Unum," and "United States of America" complete this historically significant reverse design, connecting American values to this international conflict.

Product Highlights

• Metal Type: SILVER – Hedge
• Purity: 0.9
• Weight: 0.7734 oz
• Grade: BU – Brilliant Uncirculated
• Manufacturer: United States Mint
• Mint Mark: D – Denver
• Grading Service: None
• IRA Eligible: No
• Obverse: Soldier charging uphill with naval vessels and aircraft overhead
• Reverse: Map of Korea showing division at 38th parallel with yin-yang symbol and eagle's head

Investment Appeal

This 1991-D Korean War Silver Commemorative represents an exceptional opportunity for both collectors and investors. With a final mintage of just 213,049 pieces—significantly below the authorized maximum of one million—this coin offers inherent scarcity that collectors prize. Its 90% silver composition containing 0.7734 ounces of pure silver provides intrinsic precious metal value, while its brilliant uncirculated condition ensures you're acquiring a pristine example with its original mint luster fully intact.

Beyond its material value, this coin carries historical weight as it commemorates a pivotal moment in American military history and helped fund the Korean War Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C. The designs by renowned U.S. Mint artists John Mercanti and T. James Ferrell add artistic significance, making this piece a true numismatic treasure. For collectors building themed collections of military commemoratives or 20th-century American history, this coin represents an essential acquisition that combines artistic merit, historical significance, and precious metal content in one remarkable package.