1972 (S) Proof Silver Eisenhower Dollar

Coin Details

Auction Record

$4,715 PR70 04-25-2002 Heritage Auctions

Description

The 1972 (S) Proof Silver Eisenhower Dollar is a proof dollar struck at the San Francisco Mint, part of the Eisenhower Dollars 1971-1978 series. With a mintage of 1.8 million, this is an extremely rare issue — the lowest mintage among 6 mint variants, representing only less than 1% of total production. The obverse features Dwight D. Eisenhower facing left and the reverse displays an eagle landing on the moon with an olive branch in its talons, commemorating the Apollo 11 lunar landing. Three reverse varieties exist: Type 1 (most common), Type 2 (high-relief Earth struck from a proof die, scarce), and Type 3 (refined design used from 1973 onward). As a proof issue, this coin was struck multiple times on specially prepared polished planchets using polished dies, producing mirror-like fields and frosted design elements prized by collectors. Struck at the San Francisco Mint, established during the California Gold Rush and now primarily producing proof and collector coins. Estimated market value is approximately $39. Struck in outer layers - 80% silver, 20% copper; center - 79% copper, 21% silver, weighing 24.6 grams, 38.5 mm in diameter, with a reeded edge. Cataloged as PCGS #97429.