Coin value guide

Eisenhower Dollar Value (1971–1978)

Quick answer: Circulated clad Ike dollars: $1–$2. Uncirculated: $3–$10. S-mint 40% silver versions (blue/brown pack): $10–$15. Superb-gem clad examples are sleepers worth $100+.

The Eisenhower dollar — the last big dollar coin — honors both Ike and the Apollo 11 moon landing, whose eagle graces the reverse. Most that turn up in dresser drawers are copper-nickel clad and worth only a small premium over face value.

The exceptions: San Francisco struck 40% silver versions for collectors (sold in blue envelopes and brown boxes — hence "Blue Ikes" and "Brown Ikes"), and because clad Ikes were struck carelessly, truly gem examples are scarce and bring surprising money from registry collectors.

Eisenhower dollar values

Version	Value
Circulated clad	$1 – $2
Uncirculated clad	$3 – $8
40% silver "Blue Ike" (unc.)	$10 – $15
40% silver "Brown Ike" (proof)	$12 – $18
Bicentennial (1776–1976) clad	$1 – $3
MS-66+ clad (condition rarity)	$100 – $1,000+

Key dates worth serious money

1972 Type 2 (high relief earth)

$30 – $500

ii.

1971-S silver, MS-67

$150+

iii.

1976 Type 1 bicentennial (bold letters)

$2 – $50

iv.

1973 (low-mintage circulation)

$5 – $30

The story behind the coin

Issued 1971–1978, the Ike dollar was too big for wallets and never circulated widely outside casinos. Its Apollo 11 reverse — an eagle landing on the Moon — makes it a favorite crossover collectible for space enthusiasts.

Frequently asked questions

How do I know if my Ike dollar is silver?

Only S mint mark coins were struck in 40% silver, and only 1971–1976. Check the edge: silver versions lack the copper core stripe.

What is the 1972 Type 2 variety?

A reverse die (used briefly at Philadelphia) showing the Earth with no islands below Florida — the scarcest circulation Ike variety, worth $30+ even worn.

Are bicentennial Ike dollars valuable?

Clad circulation versions, modestly — $1–$3. The S silver uncirculated version brings $12–$20.

Why do high-grade clad Ikes cost so much?

The Mint struck them on worn dies with poor quality control, so MS-66 and better survivors are genuinely rare — a "condition rarity" situation collectors pay up for.

Related value guides

Values shown are typical retail ranges for the grades described, based on recent dealer and auction pricing. Markets move; exact value depends on grade, variety and eye appeal. This guide is informational and not a formal appraisal.