Q. David Bowers
Varieties of Ikes
Besides differences in metallic composition, the Eisenhower dollar series has its own share of die differences.
The dual-dated 1776-1976 copper-nickel clad dollars are found in two major varieties. On the first of these, Variety I, Ike's portrait is in lower relief, although this variety is more easily recognized by the bold, broad reverse lettering in contrast, the reverse lettering is thinner and more delicate on the reverse of the Variety II coins of this date. Both varieties are known for the Philadelphia and Denver copper-nickel clad business strikes of 1976, as well as the copper-nickel clad Proof coins from the San Francisco Mint. Of all these, the Variety I copper nickel 1776-1976-S Proof dollar has the lowest mintage figure, while the lowest business strike mintage honor for the date goes to the Variety I dollar from Philadelphia.
Some other scarce or even rare varieties are the 1974-D and 1977-D dollars struck by mistake on 40% silver planchets. They command very high prices when specimens are offered for sale, which isn't often.
Many "blue" and "brown" Ikes, especially the former, have doubled die obverses, most notable on the motto IN GOD WE TRUST. The strongest seen to date is on the 1971-840% silver Uncirculated issue. A few in the series also have minor die doubling on the lower reverse, primarily on the words ONE DOLLAR. (Information in this paragraph is from Bill Fivaz, letter dated February 6, 1993.)
"There is no time like the present" is an ages-old adage that rings particularly true where the Eisenhower dollar series is concerned. Today's connoisseur, who spends time picking through blue and brown Ikes for quality coins, will be sitting pretty in the future.
Remember, Morgan dollars were looked upon with disdain just a few short decades ago, but now they are favorites with just about everyone. The "ugly duckling" Eisenhower dollar may yet become a respected denizen of the numismatic community. Now is certainly a great time to get a head start on coin collectors everywhere.
Note Concerning Market Values
On the following pages, historical market prices are given for Eisenhower dollars. For the years 1986 to date, the Mint State and Proof categories are divided into gradations. The prices listed are highly empirical as the market did not make fine distinctions in the values of coins between, for example, MS-63 and MS-64. In general, high-quality pieces (especially in the Mint State categories, for Proofs are almost always of high quality) sold for more, and heavily bagmarked coins for less.
The time may not be too distant when the marketplace will have finite pricing distinctions for small grading differences, especially as certification of Eisenhower dollars becomes more popular.