1921 P Peace Dollars $1 (One Dollar) Mint Strike
The coin in question is a 1921 Peace Dollar, a prominent piece in the series of coins produced by the United States Mint. This particular coin was minted in Philadelphia and carries the 'P' mint mark. Struck from 90% silver, it has consistently been a popular collectible among numismatists and is notable for its artistic design, which features Lady Liberty on the obverse and a magnificent eagle on the reverse. Measuring 38.1 mm in diameter and weighing approximately 26.73 grams, this coin is an iconic representation of American currency from the early 20th century. The Peace Dollar was introduced following World War I to symbolize peace, reflecting a significant historical moment. Furthermore, while the stated mintage is listed as '0', it is important to note that in reality, the 1921 Peace Dollar was produced, with a mintage of over a million coins that year, albeit the figure may be referencing a specific context or production record. As a collectible, the condition and grading of the coin greatly influence its market value. In grades ranging from Uncirculated to Extremely Fine, it can command prices spanning from modest to several hundred dollars, while higher-grade specimens can reach into the thousands, depending on demand and market factors. The 1921 Peace Dollar remains a beloved piece of American coinage, cherished for its historical significance, craftsmanship, and beauty.
| Sub Type | Coins |
| Country | United States of America |
| Denomination | $1 (One Dollar) |
| Series | Peace Dollars |
| Year | 1921 |
| Mint | Philadelphia |
| Production Type | Mint Strike |
| Diameter | 38.10 |
| Weight | 26.73 |
| Type | Coins |
| Material | Silver 90% |
| Mintage | 00 |
| Currency | USD |
| Mint Mark | P |
| Currency Amount | 1.00 |
| Year Display | 1921 |
| Height | 0.00 |
| Width | 0.00 |
US 1921 Peace Dollar: A Unique High Relief Coin
The 1921 Peace Dollar holds a special place in numismatic history as the first coin in the Peace Dollar series and the only one struck in high relief. This unique characteristic, combined with its historical significance and striking design, makes it a highly sought-after coin among collectors.
Historical Context and Commemoration
The Peace Dollar series was introduced to celebrate the end of World War I and symbolize peace and prosperity. The 1921 Peace Dollar, designed by Anthony de Francisci, was authorized by the Pittman Act of 1918 and was first minted in December 1921. Its release marked a transition from the Morgan Dollar series, which had been in production since 1878.
High Relief Design
The most distinctive feature of the 1921 Peace Dollar is its high relief design. High relief coins have more pronounced and raised features compared to standard relief coins, resulting in a more detailed and visually striking appearance. The 1921 Peace Dollar's high relief design showcases the intricate artistry of Anthony de Francisci:
- Obverse: The obverse features Lady Liberty with a radiant crown, symbolizing freedom and peace. The high relief design emphasizes the details of Liberty's face, hair, and crown, giving the coin a three-dimensional look.
- Reverse: The reverse depicts a majestic bald eagle perched on a rock, clutching an olive branch, symbolizing peace. The high relief design enhances the eagle's feathers and the texture of the rock, creating a dynamic and powerful image.
Unique Amongst Peace Dollars
The 1921 Peace Dollar is unique among the series for several reasons:
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High Relief Striking: The high relief design of the 1921 Peace Dollar was challenging to produce. The Mint experienced difficulties in striking the coins properly, resulting in lower production efficiency and higher rejection rates. Due to these challenges, the high relief design was modified to a lower relief in 1922, making the 1921 Peace Dollar the only high relief coin in the series.
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Limited Mintage: With a mintage of approximately 1,006,473 coins, the 1921 Peace Dollar is relatively scarce. The combination of its limited mintage and high relief design contributes to its desirability and value among collectors.
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Historical Significance: As the inaugural coin of the Peace Dollar series, the 1921 Peace Dollar holds historical significance. It represents a pivotal moment in American numismatics, transitioning from the Morgan Dollar to a design that commemorated peace after the Great War.
Collecting and Investing in the 1921 Peace Dollar
The 1921 Peace Dollar is a prized addition to any numismatic collection due to its unique design, historical significance, and scarcity. When collecting or investing in this coin, consider the following:
- Condition and Grading: As with all coins, the condition significantly affects value. High-grade examples with minimal wear, strong details, and attractive luster command higher premiums. Coins graded MS63 (Mint State 63) or higher are particularly desirable.
- Authenticity: Ensure that any 1921 Peace Dollar you acquire is authentic. Purchase coins from reputable dealers and consider coins certified by respected grading services like the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) or the Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC).
- Market Demand: The 1921 Peace Dollar's unique attributes and historical context create strong demand among collectors, making it a solid investment for those interested in numismatics.
Conclusion
The 1921 Peace Dollar stands out as a unique and historically significant coin in the Peace Dollar series. Its high relief design, limited mintage, and the challenges associated with its production contribute to its rarity and desirability. For collectors and investors, the 1921 Peace Dollar represents both a beautiful piece of American history and a valuable asset in the world of numismatics.