1922 Peace Sterling Silver Dollar
Coin/Bullion · United States Mint; specifically the Philadelphia Mint (due to lack of mint mark), led by Chief Engraver George T. Morgan at the time, though designed by Anthony de Francisci.
Pattern: Peace Dollar, introduced in 1921 to commemorate the end of World War I; high production in 1922; series ended in 1935.
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
United States Mint; specifically the Philadelphia Mint (due to lack of mint mark), led by Chief Engraver George T. Morgan at the time, though designed by Anthony de Francisci.
Material
90% Silver, 10% Copper (Coin Silver); Total weight 26.73 grams; Silver content 0.77344 troy ounces.
Dimensions
Diameter: 38.1 mm (1.5 inches); Thickness: 2.4 mm; Weight: 26.73 grams (approx. 0.86 troy oz gross).
Description
The 1922 Peace Dollar is an iconic piece of American history, designed by Anthony de Francisci to symbolize the nation's desire for tranquility following World War I. This specific coin shows the classic profile of Liberty, modeled after the designer's wife, Teresa. It features a brilliant luster and deep sculptural relief that was typical of early 20th-century U.S. coinage. As the first full year of the regular 'low relief' production, it represents the backbone of the series.
Key Features
Radiant crown on Liberty; 'V' instead of 'U' in 'TRUST' (Latin style); thick silver planchet; lack of mint mark on reverse indicating Philadelphia origin.
Material & Composition
90% Silver, 10% Copper (Coin Silver); Total weight 26.73 grams; Silver content 0.77344 troy ounces.
Finish & Decoration
Business strike with a satin/lustrous finish. Features Liberty in profile wearing a radiating crown (obverse) and an eagle perched on a rock with an olive branch (reverse). Neoclassical style.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped 'LIBERTY', 'IN GOD WE TRUST', and date '1922'. Reverse (not visible) would have 'UNITED STATES OF AMERICA', 'E PLURIBUS UNUM', 'ONE DOLLAR', and 'PEACE'. Mint marks (D or S) would be on the reverse above the eagle's tail; lack of mark indicates Philadelphia.
Construction Details
Machine-manufactured; Die-struck at high pressure using a steam or electric powered coin press.
Functional Features
Reeded edge to prevent 'clipping' or shaving of the silver; legal tender for 1.00 USD.
Handle & Grip Details
None (not applicable for numismatic items); currently held in a clear BCW protective plastic display case.
Craftsmanship Details
Precision die-striking shows excellent detail in the hair and crown. While machine-made, the original plaster models were hand-carved by de Francisci, showing high-quality artistic merit.
Authentication Indicators
Die-struck details consistent with 1922 low-relief dies; appropriate wear for 90% silver; correct typography; weight and diameter appear within standard tolerances for the type.
Origin & Manufacturing
United States of America, Philadelphia Mint. Part of the tradition of American silver coinage under the Pittman Act of 1918.
Era & Period
Interwar Period / Art Deco Era (1922). Influenced by the Beaux-Arts and Art Deco movements popular in early 20th-century America.
Age Estimate
Dated 1922; approximately 102 years old.
Cultural Significance
A symbol of American isolationism and peace after WWI; the last high-silver dollar series intended for general circulation in the U.S. (excluding modern commemoratives).
Condition Notes
Very Good to Extremely Fine condition. Visible surface chatter and minor bag marks in the fields. Slight wear on the hair above the ear and the tips of the crown. The coin remains in a BCW hard plastic holder, which has prevented deep toning or heavy tarnish. Moderate luster remains.
Value Estimate
$25.00 - $45.00 (Standard Circulated/Choice AU range). Value is driven by silver spot price and numismatic grade.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish with abrasives as this destroys numismatic value. Store in PVC-free holders (like the BCW case shown). Keep in a cool, dry place away from sulfur-based products to prevent heavy black toning.
Similar Pieces
1921 Peace Dollar (High Relief - more valuable), Morgan Silver Dollar (preceding series), Eisenhower Dollar (cupro-nickel, larger, different design).
Interesting Facts
The model for Liberty was Teresa de Francisci; the 1922 mintage was the highest in the series (over 51 million), making it the most accessible date for collectors.