1991-P $1 Korean War Silver Commem – Proof

The Korean War, often referred to as "The Forgotten War," stands as a pivotal moment in 20th-century history. Caught between the shadows of World War II and the Vietnam War, this conflict marked America's first major engagement in the Cold War era. When the armistice was signed in 1953, it established the now-famous 38th parallel as the dividing line between North and South Korea – a boundary that remains one of the world's most heavily militarized borders to this day.

In 1991, the United States Mint created a special commemorative coin to honor the 38th anniversary of the war's end – a deliberate numerical choice to symbolize the 38th parallel that divides the Korean peninsula. This exquisite silver dollar stands as a permanent tribute to the 1.8 million Americans who served in this conflict, including the 36,574 who made the ultimate sacrifice and the 103,284 who were wounded in action.

The timing of this commemorative issue was particularly significant. Released just four years before the dedication of the Korean War Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C., this coin helped bring renewed attention to a conflict that had faded somewhat from public consciousness. The memorial itself would later feature 19 stainless steel statues, a mural wall, and a reflective pool – physical manifestations of the sacrifice honored in silver on this commemorative dollar.

For collectors and historians alike, this coin represents more than just precious metal – it embodies a crucial chapter in American military history. The Korean War established America's commitment to containing communism and defending democratic allies, setting precedents that would influence U.S. foreign policy for decades to come.

This commemorative silver dollar serves as a tangible connection to the veterans who endured harsh Korean winters, brutal combat conditions, and the challenging aftermath of a conflict that technically never formally ended. Even today, American troops remain stationed along the DMZ, continuing the legacy of service that began over seven decades ago.

Design Features

The obverse of the 1991-P Korean War Silver Commemorative Dollar showcases a dynamic composition designed by John Mercanti. It depicts an American soldier charging uphill with determination, capturing the spirit of courage displayed throughout the conflict. In the background, naval vessels navigate coastal waters while a pair of F-86 Sabre jets – the aircraft that established decisive air superiority during the war – streak across the sky. Eight stars arc along the upper rim, symbolically representing the global nature of this United Nations action. The dual dates "1953 1991" appear on the sloping hillside, marking the years from the armistice to the commemorative issue. The inscriptions "THIRTY EIGHTH ANNIVERSARY COMMEMORATIVE," "KOREA," and "IN GOD WE TRUST" complete this historically rich design.

The reverse, created by T. James Ferrell, features a geographical representation of the Korean peninsula. North Korea is distinguished by diagonal line shading while South Korea appears as a solid raised surface. The famous 38th parallel – the dividing line that became synonymous with the conflict – cuts horizontally across the peninsula. South Korea is marked with the Taegeuk symbol (similar to the yin-yang), representing harmony and balance in Korean culture. An American bald eagle's head appears to the right, symbolizing the United States' commitment to freedom and democracy in the region. The inscriptions "ONE DOLLAR," "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA," and "E PLURIBUS UNUM" complete this thoughtful design, with the Philadelphia mint mark "P" appearing beneath the eagle's head.

Product Highlights

• Metal Type: SILVER – Hedge
• Purity: 0.9
• Weight: 0.7734 oz
• Grade: BU – Brilliant Uncirculated
• Manufacturer: United States Mint
• Mint Mark: P – Philadelphia
• Obverse: American soldier charging uphill with naval vessels and F-86 aircraft in background
• Reverse: Map of Korean peninsula showing division at 38th parallel with American eagle

Investment Appeal

This 1991-P Korean War Silver Commemorative represents an exceptional opportunity for both collectors and investors. With a limited mintage of just 618,488 pieces, it offers numismatic scarcity that complements its precious metal content. The coin's 90% silver composition provides a tangible hedge against inflation while its historical significance adds a premium that transcends mere metal value.

What truly distinguishes this piece is its dual appeal – it satisfies both the investor seeking diversification through precious metals and the collector interested in American military history. The exceptional proof striking from the Philadelphia Mint showcases frosted design elements against mirror-like fields, creating a visual contrast that highlights every detail of the meticulously crafted design.

For collectors of modern commemoratives, this coin represents an essential addition that honors a pivotal moment in American history. With each passing year, these limited-mintage pieces become increasingly difficult to acquire in pristine condition, potentially enhancing long-term value. Whether you're adding to an established collection or beginning your journey in numismatics, this Korean War commemorative stands as both a tribute to American sacrifice and a potential store of value for generations to come.