The Eisenhower Centennial Silver Dollar Commemorative Coin
The 1990 Eisenhower Centennial commemorative silver dollar is a classic piece struck to honor the 34th President of the United States, Dwight D. Eisenhower. This coin marked the second official U.S. honoring of Ike, following the circulating Eisenhower dollar minted from 1971 to 1978. The special coin was authorized by Public Law 100-467 (Act of October 3, 1988) to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Eisenhower’s birth, with a large mintage of up to four million silver dollars using silver from the U.S. Strategic Materials Stockpile.
Insight: The Eisenhower Centennial Dollar was released during the early period of U.S. modern commemorative coinage, which often saw high mintages but did not always result in sellouts due to collector demand fluctuation.
Dollar Options and Pricing
The 1990 Eisenhower Centennial Dollar came in two finishes: Proof and Uncirculated, offered at two different price points. The Proof version, the first silver dollar-sized coin bearing the “W” mint mark of the West Point Mint, was a highlight of the collection. Prices ranged from $23 to $29 for the Uncirculated and $25 to $52.77 for the Proof versions. These coins were available for purchase individually or as part of the 1990 Prestige Proof Set, which included other Proof coins from that year.
VIPs at the Coin’s Reveal
The launch event for the 1990 Eisenhower Centennial Dollar took place in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, on January 16, 1990, at Eisenhower’s former residence. Notable attendees included United States Mint Director Donna Pope, Treasurer Catalina Villalpando, and Pennsylvania Congressman William F. Goodling, who sponsored the coin in the House.
Market Insights and Specimens
In the numismatic market, the 1990-P Eisenhower Centennial Dollar Proof typically sells slightly above its silver value, with prices on eBay ranging from $20 to $25 for raw coins. Graded examples command a premium, especially in Proof-69 condition, which typically sells between $35 to $40. Proof-70 specimens are rarer and can fetch $125 or more, especially from reputable grading services like CAC, NGC, or PCGS.
Insight: Toned coins, like the example owned by Charles Morgan, can add uniqueness and value to a coin, but buyers should exercise caution as some coins may have been artificially modified.
Design Overview
The obverse of the coin features a dual portrait of Eisenhower by Mint Engraver John Mercanti, symbolizing his transition from military to political leadership. The reverse showcases Eisenhower’s home in Gettysburg, along with unique inscriptions and designer initials. The coin’s edge is reeded, adding a classic touch to the overall design.
Insight: The design of the Eisenhower Centennial Dollar pays homage to Eisenhower’s dual roles as a military general and President, capturing the essence of his leadership journey.
Coin Specifications
– Country: United States of America
– Year of Issue: 1990
– Denomination: One Dollar (USD)
– Mint Mark: P (Philadelphia)
– Mintage: 1,144,461
– Alloy: .900 Silver, .100 Copper
– Weight: 26.73 grams
– Diameter: 38.10 mm
– Edge: Reeded
– Obverse Designer: John Mercanti
– Reverse Designer: Chester Young Martin | Marcel Jovine
– Quality: Proof
Insight: The 1990 Eisenhower Centennial Dollar serves as a timeless tribute to Dwight D. Eisenhower, capturing significant milestones from his life and legacy in a beautiful commemorative coin.