The Eisenhower Dollar was issued from 1971 to 1978.The obverse of the coin features Dwight D. Eisenhower and the reverse is based on the Apollo 11 mission insignia. For circulation, the coins were struck in copper-nickel clad composition, although “silver dollars” were also produced and issued for collectors. The reverse of the Eisenhower dollar coin is adapted from the official Apollo 11 insignia. In 1975 and 1976, to mark America’s bicentennial, Eisenhower dollar coins were issued with dual dating (1776-1976) and a special reverse design depicting the Liberty Bell and moon.

The United States Mint produced a limited number of Eisenhower Dollars in 40% silver composition. During the first four years of the series, these coins were individually packaged and sold to collectors. The uncirculated versions are often referred to as “Blue Ikes,” (Buy on eBay) referring to the color of the outer envelope.

Eisenhower Dollar Mint Mark Location

The uncirculated Eisenhower Silver Dollars were struck at the San Francisco Mint and carried the “S” mint mark. When the series was first introduced, the US Mint stated that they intended to produce 150 million of the 40% silver coins. This proved to be overly optimistic. Fewer than 7 million of the coins were sold in 1971, and the sales totals dropped to lower levels for the years 1972, 1973, and 1974.

Eisenhower Dollar Value 1974 Silver Dollar

Each coin was included within an individual cellophane pack with a blue plastic token. The pack was placed within a blue outer envelope with the Depart of the Treasury Seal and white script indicating the contents. These Blue Ikes were sold to collectors for $3.00 each.

Eisenhower Dollar Value Segs

The lowest mintage Blue Ike was the 1973, with only 1,883,140 produced. This coin carries a premium typically carries a premium above the other issues of the range.