Peace Silver Dollar – F+

In the aftermath of World War I, a nation yearned for peace and prosperity. The United States, emerging as a global power, sought to commemorate this pivotal moment in history through its coinage. Enter the Peace Silver Dollar, a coin that would become not just a medium of exchange, but a tangible symbol of hope and reconciliation.

The story of the Peace Dollar begins with a competition. In 1921, the Commission of Fine Arts invited sculptors to submit designs for a new silver dollar that would embody the spirit of peace. Among the contestants was a young Italian immigrant named Anthony de Francisci. His vision, inspired by the classical beauty of his wife Teresa, would soon grace millions of coins and capture the imagination of a nation.

De Francisci's design was revolutionary. The obverse featured a youthful, radiant Liberty, her hair flowing freely – a departure from the more mature, reserved depictions of the past. This Liberty was forward-looking, optimistic, a beacon for a new era. The reverse showcased an eagle perched on a rock, clutching an olive branch, with the word "PEACE" prominently displayed – a clear message to a world weary of conflict.

The Peace Dollar's journey was not without controversy. Initial designs included a broken sword, symbolizing the end of war. However, public outcry interpreted this as a sign of defeat, leading to a hasty redesign. This incident highlights the power of symbols and the passionate engagement of the American public with their coinage.

Minted from 1921 to 1935, the Peace Dollar circulated during a time of immense change in American society. It witnessed the Roaring Twenties, survived the Great Depression, and saw the nation transform from a debtor to a creditor on the world stage. Each Peace Dollar, therefore, is not just a coin, but a time capsule of American history.

Today, the Peace Dollar stands as a testament to a nation's aspirations and the enduring power of numismatic art. For collectors and investors alike, it offers a tangible connection to a pivotal era in American history, embodying the hopes and dreams of a generation that sought to build a better world.

Design Features

The obverse of the Peace Dollar showcases a masterful portrait of Liberty, her features both strong and serene. Her crown, reminiscent of the Statue of Liberty's, radiates with sharp points, symbolizing the light of freedom spreading across the land. The word "LIBERTY" arches above, while the motto "IN GOD WE TRVST" (using the classical Latin "V" for "U") sits at the lower left. The date, a crucial element for collectors, is prominently displayed at the bottom.

On the reverse, an American eagle stands vigilant, perched upon a rock. In its talons, it grasps an olive branch, the universal symbol of peace. The background is dominated by rays of sunlight, suggesting a new dawn for America and the world. "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" and "E PLURIBUS UNUM" encircle the upper portion, while "ONE DOLLAR" anchors the bottom. Most striking is the word "PEACE," boldly proclaimed above the eagle – a clear and powerful message to all who held this coin.

Product Highlights

• Metal Type: SILVER – No Hedge
• Purity: 0.9
• Weight: 0.7734 oz
• Grade: F – Fine
• Manufacturer: United States Mint
• Mint Mark: Various
• Obverse: Portrait of Liberty with radiant crown
• Reverse: Eagle perched on rock, clutching olive branch, with "PEACE" inscription

Investment Appeal

The Peace Silver Dollar offers a unique proposition for both collectors and investors. Its 90% silver content provides intrinsic value, while its historical significance adds a premium that often outpaces mere bullion. The "Fine" grade of this particular specimen ensures that key design elements are clearly visible, making it an excellent entry point for new collectors or a solid addition to established portfolios.

As a piece of American history, the Peace Dollar's value transcends its silver content. It represents a pivotal moment in the nation's journey, making it a perennial favorite among numismatists. The various mint marks available add an element of collectibility, with some years and mints being scarcer and thus more valuable.

Moreover, the Peace Dollar's design is widely recognized and admired, enhancing its liquidity in the numismatic market. Its status as the last silver dollar minted for circulation adds to its allure, creating a finite supply that may appreciate over time.

For the discerning investor or collector, the Peace Silver Dollar is more than just a coin – it's a piece of American heritage, a store of value, and a tangible connection to a transformative era in history. Whether as part of a diverse investment strategy or the cornerstone of a numismatic collection, the Peace Dollar continues to shine as brightly as the ideals it was created to represent.