The 1924-S Peace Dollar, known for its symbolic design, is a fascinating piece of American history that represents hope and peace after World War I. Created by sculptor Anthony de Francisci, the Peace Dollar series started in 1921 to commemorate the end of the Great War. This guide will introduce you to the history, design details, market value, and collecting tips for the 1924-S Peace Dollar.
Understanding the History Behind the 1924-S Peace Dollar
The Peace Dollar series was born out of the Pittman Act of 1918, which required the U.S. government to re-coin melted Morgan Dollars into a new design. After public input, the Peace Dollar was created in 1921 as a tribute to peace.
In 1924, silver dollar production slowed as the U.S. Mint had fulfilled most of its re-coinage obligations. The Philadelphia Mint produced over 11 million Peace Dollars that year, but the San Francisco Mint, where the 1924-S was made, struck only about 1.7 million. This makes the 1924-S Peace Dollar one of the rarer coins in the series, especially in high grades.
Key Features of the 1924-S Peace Dollar’s Design
Obverse (Front) Design
The obverse side features a left-facing portrait of Liberty with a radiant crown, symbolizing freedom and hope. The word “LIBERTY” appears along the top, and “IN GOD WE TRUST” is inscribed below. The date “1924” is at the bottom. The sculptor’s initials, “AF,” appear under Liberty’s neck.
Reverse (Back) Design
The reverse shows an American bald eagle perched on a mountaintop, clutching an olive branch to represent peace. The eagle faces a rising sun, symbolizing a new dawn of peace. The inscriptions “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and “E PLURIBUS UNUM” appear above, and “ONE DOLLAR” is below. The San Francisco Mint’s “S” mintmark is located near the word “ONE.”
1924-S Peace Dollar Specifications
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Country | United States of America |
| Year | 1924 |
| Denomination | One Dollar (USD) |
| Mintmark | S (San Francisco) |
| Mintage | 1,728,000 |
| Alloy | 90% Silver, 10% Copper |
| Weight | 26.73 grams |
| Diameter | 38.10 mm |
| Edge | Reeded |
| Designer | Anthony de Francisci |
| Quality | Business Strike |
Collecting the 1924-S Peace Dollar: Market Data and Rarity
The 1924-S Peace Dollar is considered a “semi-key” coin in the series. This term indicates that while it’s not the rarest, it’s still highly sought after, especially in uncirculated or Mint State (MS) conditions. Coins in high Mint State grades (MS65 and MS66) are particularly rare and valuable.
| Grade (MS) | Estimated Value Range* |
|---|---|
| MS63 | $1,000 – $2,500 |
| MS64 | $2,500 – $5,000 |
| MS65 | $7,500 – $12,000 |
| MS66 | $28,000 – $55,000 |
*Values vary based on factors like eye appeal and certification by PCGS or NGC.
Some famous specimens have sold for impressive sums, such as a coin from “The Paul Taylor Collection,” which fetched over $54,625 in 2011.
Important Auction Records for the 1924-S Peace Dollar
| Coin Grade | Auction House | Year | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| PCGS MS66 | Heritage Auctions | 2011 | $54,625 |
| NGC MS66 | Stack’s Bowers | 2021 | $28,800 |
| PCGS MS66 | Possibly PCGS Auction | 1999 | $16,387.50 |
These top-grade examples show the increasing value of the 1924-S Peace Dollar among collectors, especially for coins with strong eye appeal and high-grade certifications.
Tips for Collectors of the 1924-S Peace Dollar
- Consider Grading Services: Coins certified by services like PCGS or NGC typically hold higher value, as they guarantee authenticity.
- Inspect Condition Carefully: Look for coins with sharp details on Liberty’s crown and the eagle’s feathers, as this can increase the coin’s appeal.
- Beware of Counterfeits: Since the 1924-S is valuable, be cautious of counterfeit coins. Always buy from reputable dealers or sellers.
About the Designer: Anthony de Francisci
Anthony de Francisci, born in Palermo, Italy, in 1887, designed the Peace Dollar to symbolize the country’s hope for peace. His wife served as the model for Liberty on the coin, and his work captures the post-World War I optimism. The Peace Dollar is his most famous work, making him a significant figure in U.S. numismatic history.
Conclusion
The 1924-S Peace Dollar is more than just a coin—it represents a period of hope and peace after a world conflict. With a lower mintage and detailed design, it has become a prized item among collectors. Whether you’re drawn to its history or its collectible value, the 1924-S Peace Dollar is a valuable addition to any coin collection. Start exploring its details and history, and you might find it to be a meaningful and rewarding piece of U.S. history.
FAQ’s
What makes the 1924-S Peace Dollar rare?
The 1924-S Peace Dollar is rare due to its low mintage of just 1.7 million coins, especially in higher Mint State grades, making it highly sought after by collectors.
How much is a 1924-S Peace Dollar worth?
The value varies by grade, ranging from around $1,000 for MS63 to over $50,000 for top-grade MS66 specimens. Certified high-grade coins are especially valuable.
Who designed the 1924-S Peace Dollar?
The Peace Dollar was designed by sculptor Anthony de Francisci, symbolizing peace after World War I. His wife served as the model for Liberty on the coin’s obverse.