Peace Dollar (1921-1935)

The Peace Dollar, struck 1921 to 1935, honors the end of World War I and was the last circulating United States silver dollar of its era.
Peace Dollar (1921-1935)

Obverse (Front) Design

A left-facing head of Liberty wearing a radiant crown, with the word LIBERTY above and the date below.
Peace Dollar (1921-1935)

Reverse (Back) Design

An eagle perched on a mountaintop with an olive branch and rays of the sun, with the word PEACE below.
Peace Dollar (1921-1935) rev

Coin Specifications

Date Range

1921–1935

Denomination

1 Dollar

Designer / Engraver

Anthony de Francisci

Mints

Philadelphia, Denver, San Francisco

Composition

90% silver, 10% copper

Precious Metal Content

About 0.7734 troy oz of pure silver

Weight

26.73 g

Diameter

38.1 mm

Edge

Reeded

Mintage

—

History & Background

The Peace Dollar was created to mark the end of World War I and the hope for lasting peace. It was designed by sculptor Anthony de Francisci, and the first coins were struck in December 1921.

The 1921 coins were made in high relief, which means the design stands well above the surface. The high relief was hard on the dies, so in 1922 the Mint changed to a lower relief that is easier to strike.

Peace Dollars were struck at Philadelphia, Denver and San Francisco until 1935. In 1964 Congress authorized new silver dollars and some 1964-D Peace Dollars were struck, but they were never released and are reported to have been melted.

Collecting Tips

  • The 1921 high-relief coin is a one-year type and worth looking for.
  • Check the hair above the ear and the eagle’s feathers, where wear shows first.
  • Some dates, such as 1928, are much scarcer than others.
  • Be careful with cleaned or polished coins.

Photographs by Grade

Frequently Asked Questions about the Peace Dollar (1921-1935)

Is a Peace Dollar silver?

Yes. It is 90% silver and 10% copper and contains about 0.7734 troy ounces of pure silver.

Why does the 1921 Peace Dollar look different?

It was struck in high relief. The Mint changed to a lower relief in 1922 because the high relief wore out the dies.

Were Peace Dollars made after 1935?

The regular series ended in 1935. Some 1964-D Peace Dollars were struck but never released.

More Dollars

  • Morgan Dollar (1878-1921)

    1878–1921 · 1 Dollar · 90% silver, 10% copper

    The Morgan Dollar, struck 1878 to 1904 and in 1921, is a large 90% silver coin and one of the most collected United States…

  • Trade Dollar (1873-1885)

    1873–1885 · 1 Dollar (Trade Dollar) · 90% silver, 10% copper

    The Trade Dollar was made from 1873 to 1885 for trade in Asia. It is heavier than a regular silver dollar and shows Liberty…

See all Dollars →

Buy and sell gold, silver and platinum with Marcus Metals

See live buy and sell prices on bullion bars and coins, or get a quote for your own gold and silver.