Introduced in December 1921 and having the same ratio of silver-to-copper as the Morgan dollar, the Peace dollar, was minted sparingly in 1921. In 1928 mintage was to be suspended only a couple years but was extended because of the Great Depression. Mintage resumed in 1934 and ended in 1935.Â
In May 1965, 316,000+ Peace dollars were minted, all at the Denver Mint and dated 1964-D; however, plans for completing this coinage were abandoned, and most of those already minted were melted, with two known trial strike specimens being preserved (for assay purposes) until 1970, when they too were melted, and none released either for circulation or collection purposes. It is rumored that one or more pieces still exist, most notably any examples obtained by key members of Congress, the President, or mint officials. However, this coin, much like the 1933 $20 Gold Eagle (aside from the “exception”, sold in 2002 for over $7 million and the 10 found later), is illegal to own and would be subject to confiscation.
VF-20 Very Fine – Hair over eye well worn. Some strands over ear well defined. Some Eagle’s feathers on top and outside edge of right wing visible.
EF-40 Extremely Fine— Hair lines over brow and ear are strong, though slightly worn. Outside wing feathers at right and those at top visible but faint.
AU50 About Uncirculated— Slight trace of wear. Most mint luster present, although marred by contact marks.
MS-60 Uncirculated— No trace of wear, Full mint luster, but possibly noticeably marred stains, surface marks, or bag abrasions.
MS-63 Choice Uncirculated— Some distracting contact marks or blemishes in prime focal areas. Impaired luster possible.
MS-64 Uncirculated— A few scattered contact marks, good eye appeal and attractive luster.
MS-65 Gem Uncirculated— Only light, scattered contact marks that are not distracting. Strong luster, good eye appeal.
