Discover Why 1776-1976 Eisenhower Dollars Are Unique
Bicentennial Eisenhower dollars have gotten complicated with all the variety types, composition debates, and condition rarity discussions flying around. As someone who has collected complete Ike dollar sets, I learned everything there is to know about these commemorative coins. Today, I will share it all with you.
The Basics
Probably should have led with this section, honestly—Bicentennial Ikes aren’t rare overall. Nearly 200 million were minted for circulation. But specific varieties and conditions make certain pieces valuable.
What Makes Them Special
That’s what makes Bicentennial Ikes endearing to us collectors—the unique design commemorating America’s 200th birthday:
- Dual date 1776-1976
- Liberty Bell superimposed on moon (reverse)
- Designed by Dennis R. Williams
Varieties
- Type 1: Thick, blocky lettering (early 1975 production)
- Type 2: Thinner, refined lettering (later production)
- 40% Silver: San Francisco collector editions
Value Factors
Circulation strikes are worth face value unless in high uncirculated grades. Silver versions carry numismatic premiums. Proof sets in original packaging appeal to collectors.
Building a Set
A basic set includes clad P and D mintmarks. Complete sets add silver proofs, uncirculated silver, and both variety types.
