1972 Eisenhower Dollar (likely Copper-Nickel Clad Type I)
Coin/Bullion · United States Mint (Philadelphia)
Pattern: Eisenhower Dollar (Eagle on Moon reverse design)
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
United States Mint (Philadelphia)
Material
Typically Copper-Nickel Clad (75% copper, 25% nickel outer layer over a 100% copper core). No silver content unless it is the 'Blue Envelope' proof variant from San Francisco, which is 40% silver.
Dimensions
Diameter: 38.1 mm (1.5 inches); Weight: 22.68 grams for Clad versions (24.59 grams for 40% silver versions).
Description
The 1972 Eisenhower Dollar is a large-format United States coin honoring the 34th President and the Apollo 11 lunar landing. It was the first large-sized dollar coin issued since the Peace Dollar in 1935, intended to revive the tradition of heavy silver-style coins in commerce.
Key Features
Eisenhower's profile; 1972 date without mint mark; 'Type I' low-relief profile commonly found on Philadelphia strikes.
Material & Composition
Typically Copper-Nickel Clad (75% copper, 25% nickel outer layer over a 100% copper core). No silver content unless it is the 'Blue Envelope' proof variant from San Francisco, which is 40% silver.
Finish & Decoration
Business strike finish with frosted relief and satin fields. Features the left-facing profile of President Dwight D. Eisenhower. The reverse (not shown) depicts an eagle landing on the moon, based on the Apollo 11 mission patch.
Hallmarks & Stamps
No mint mark (indicating Philadelphia mint for 1972). Features inscriptions 'LIBERTY', 'IN GOD WE TRUST', and the date '1972'.
Construction Details
Die-struck at a government minting facility using a multi-ton coining press on prepared planchets.
Functional Features
Reeded edge design to prevent debasement and for tactile identification; legal tender status of one U.S. dollar.
Handle & Grip Details
Not applicable (coinage).
Craftsmanship Details
Mass-produced industrial coinage focusing on durability and crispness of the die-strike rather than hand-wrought artisan detail.
Authentication Indicators
Correct font styles and alignment for US Mint coinage; typical wear patterns for nickel-clad base metal; absence of a mint mark consistent with 1972 Philadelphia production.
Origin & Manufacturing
United States of America; Philadelphia Mint.
Era & Period
Modern Era (1971-1978). Reflects the Cold War/Space Age era and the commemoration of the first moon landing.
Age Estimate
Struck in 1972.
Cultural Significance
Represents the intersection of American political history and the triumph of the Space Race. It was often used in casinos, particularly in Nevada, but rarely circulated heavily in general commerce due to its weight.
Condition Notes
Circulated/Very Fine. Visible contact marks (bag marks), light scratches on the cheek and fields, and a dulling of the original mint luster. No major corrosion or environmental damage visible.
Value Estimate
Nominal value of $1.00 USD. Exceptional uncirculated examples can reach $5-$20, while rare 'Type II' varieties from 1972 can be more valuable to specialized collectors.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish with abrasives as this destroys numismatic value. Store in an acid-free PVC-free flip or sleeve to prevent oxidation and 'PVC damage'.
Similar Pieces
1971-1976 'Blue Ikes' (40% silver uncirculated), 1964 Kennedy Half Dollars (90% silver), and 1921 Morgan Dollars.
Interesting Facts
The reverse design was created by Frank Gasparro to celebrate the 1969 moon landing. Many people mistakenly believe all 'Ike' dollars contain silver, but most circulated issues are base metal.