Since the introduction of the Eisenhower Dollar in 1971, U.S. dollar coins have undergone significant transformations in size, composition, and design. These coins reflect the nation’s evolving priorities, from honoring historical figures to improving convenience in commerce. Here, we’ll explore six key types of U.S. dollar coins minted since 1971.
1. Eisenhower Dollar (1971–1978)
The Eisenhower Dollar marked the return of the dollar coin after a hiatus since the Peace Dollar ended production in 1935. Named after President Dwight D. Eisenhower, these coins were the largest dollar coins produced post-1935. They featured a dual design: Eisenhower’s profile on the obverse and an eagle landing on the moon on the reverse, commemorating the Apollo 11 moon landing. Struck in both copper-nickel clad and limited 40% silver compositions, the Eisenhower Dollar was more popular as a collector’s item than for circulation due to its hefty size and weight.
2. Susan B. Anthony Dollar (1979–1981, 1999)
In response to the Eisenhower Dollar’s impractical size, the U.S. Mint introduced the Susan B. Anthony Dollar. This coin was smaller and more compact, with an eleven-sided rim designed to help distinguish it from quarters. The obverse featured Susan B. Anthony, the women’s suffrage pioneer, making it the first U.S. coin to depict a real woman. However, its similarity in size and color to the quarter caused confusion, leading to its limited production run.
3. Sacagawea Dollar (2000–2008)
The Sacagawea Dollar, also called the “Golden Dollar,” aimed to address the shortcomings of the Susan B. Anthony Dollar. Featuring a smooth, golden tone achieved by a manganese-brass coating, it depicted Sacagawea, the Shoshone guide who assisted the Lewis and Clark Expedition. The reverse initially showcased a soaring eagle. Despite its innovative design, the Sacagawea Dollar faced limited use in everyday commerce, as the public continued to favor paper dollar bills.
4. Presidential Dollar Series (2007–2016)
This ambitious series honored deceased U.S. presidents, featuring their portraits on the obverse and the Statue of Liberty on the reverse. Produced in a golden hue similar to the Sacagawea Dollar, the coins included edge inscriptions with the year, mintmark, and “E Pluribus Unum.” While the series appealed to collectors, it struggled in circulation and was ultimately suspended after 2011, with production limited to collectors thereafter.
5. Native American Dollar (2009–Present)
Replacing the Sacagawea Dollar, the Native American Dollar retained Sacagawea’s portrait on the obverse but introduced annually changing reverse designs to honor Native American contributions. Themes have ranged from the Three Sisters agriculture method to Native Americans’ military service. Despite limited circulation, the coin continues to attract collectors.
6. American Innovation Dollar (2018–Present)
Celebrating innovation and ingenuity in each U.S. state, this series features the Statue of Liberty on the obverse and unique designs on the reverse highlighting achievements like the Erie Canal and the telephone. The coins are sold primarily for collectors and rarely appear in circulation.
Conclusion
Over the past five decades, U.S. dollar coins have seen dramatic shifts in design, size, and usage. While they’ve struggled to gain widespread acceptance in everyday commerce, these coins remain valuable pieces of American history and innovation, cherished by collectors and numismatists alike.
FAQs
1. What was unique about the design of the Eisenhower Dollar?
The Eisenhower Dollar featured an image of President Eisenhower on the obverse and an eagle landing on the moon, commemorating the Apollo 11 moon landing.
2. Why was the Susan B. Anthony Dollar not widely accepted?
The Susan B. Anthony Dollar was too similar in size and color to the quarter, which caused confusion in circulation, leading to its limited success.
3. What distinguishes the Native American Dollar from other U.S. dollar coins?
The Native American Dollar features Sacagawea’s portrait on the obverse, with annually changing reverse designs to honor Native American culture and contributions.