The 1978-D Eisenhower Dollar is an important coin in American history. It marks the end of the large dollar coins made by the United States Mint. This guide will provide insights into the coin’s features, history, and value. Whether you’re a beginner collector or just curious about coins, you’ll find this information helpful.
End of an Era
The 1978-D Eisenhower Dollar was one of the last large dollar coins made by the U.S. Mint. The Mint produced 33,102,890 of these coins at the Denver Mint, making it the fourth-highest produced in the Eisenhower series. The production varied throughout the years, with a high of 113 million coins made in 1976 for the Bicentennial and a low of 1.76 million in 1973.
The coin was created in 1971 to honor Dwight D. Eisenhower, who was both a war hero and a president. During a tough time in America, especially with the Vietnam War, many wanted to recognize Eisenhower’s contributions.
Minting Process and Transition
The 1978-D Eisenhower Dollar has a small “D” mintmark above the date, indicating it was struck in Denver. On October 10, 1978, President Jimmy Carter signed a law for a new, smaller dollar coin, the Susan B. Anthony Dollar. Production of this new coin began on December 13, 1978. The Eisenhower Dollar was made alongside the new coin for a short period before its production ended on December 31, 1978.
Value of the 1978-D Eisenhower Dollar
The 1978-D Eisenhower Dollar is often collected in two ways: raw or certified. Raw coins have not been graded, while certified coins are graded by services like CAC, NGC, or PCGS. Most raw coins can be found in circulation or in annual Uncirculated Coin Sets.
Coins that show signs of wear are usually not considered valuable and can be spent at face value. However, Uncirculated coins in better condition can be worth four to ten times their face value on sites like eBay. Here’s a breakdown of current values for different grades:
| Grade | Value | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Mint State 65 | About $18 | Common uncirculated condition. |
| Mint State 66 | About $100 | Better quality, but prices can vary. |
| Mint State 67 | Up to $8,750 | Extremely rare and valuable. |
Market Data and Noteworthy Specimens
The highest graded 1978-D Eisenhower Dollars are as follows:
| Grading Service | Population | Notable Sale Prices |
|---|---|---|
| PCGS MS67 | 14 known | Last sold for $7,050 (2017) |
| NGC MS67 | 28 known | Sold for $2,520 (2022) |
| CAC MS67 | 4 stickered | Recent sales ranged from $200 to $400 |
These examples highlight how valuable these coins can be, especially when they are in top condition.
Design of the 1978-D Eisenhower Dollar
The design of the 1978-D Eisenhower Dollar is significant and reflects American values.
Obverse (Front)
- Dwight D. Eisenhower is depicted facing left.
- The words “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST” are inscribed.
- The mintmark “D” is just above the year 1978.
Reverse (Back)
- Features a bald eagle descending with an olive branch.
- The Earth is shown above the eagle, with North America visible.
- Includes the phrases “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and “E PLURIBUS UNUM.”
Edge
- The edge of the coin is reeded, which means it has grooves for identification.
Summary
The 1978-D Eisenhower Dollar is a significant coin that marks the end of an era in U.S. currency. Understanding its design, history, and value can help both collectors and history enthusiasts appreciate it more. As the coin symbolizes a time of transition in American currency, it remains a popular choice for collectors today. Whether you’re buying, selling, or just learning about it, the 1978-D Eisenhower Dollar is a coin with a rich story.
FAQ’s
What is the 1978-D Eisenhower Dollar?
The 1978-D Eisenhower Dollar is a one-dollar coin minted in the United States to honor President Dwight D. Eisenhower. It features his portrait on the front and an eagle on the back, representing American pride and values. This coin marks the end of the large dollar coin era.
How much is the 1978-D Eisenhower Dollar worth?
The value of the 1978-D Eisenhower Dollar varies based on its condition. Generally, uncirculated coins can sell for about $18 to $100, while those in top grades can fetch much higher prices, even up to $8,750 for the best examples. Raw coins are usually worth their face value unless they are in excellent condition.
Where can I find a 1978-D Eisenhower Dollar?
You can find the 1978-D Eisenhower Dollar at coin shops, online marketplaces like eBay, or in coin collections. Some may also be available in circulation, but uncirculated examples are often included in annual Mint Coin Sets.