The $264,000 Ike Dollar A rare 1971 Eisenhower silver dollar sold at auction for $264,000 due to a unique minting error and exceptional condition.
Wrong Planchet Error This specific coin was mistakenly struck on a 40% silver planchet intended for collector coins, not circulation — making it an error coin of extreme rarity.
First Year of Issue 1971 was the first year the Eisenhower dollar was minted, and early errors from inaugural runs are especially valuable.
Not All 1971 Ikes Are Silver Most 1971 Eisenhower dollars were made of a copper-nickel clad composition. Only a small number, primarily minted at San Francisco (S mintmark), were silver — and not all of those were released to the public.
How to Spot One Check for the 1971 date, and inspect the edge for a silver stripe (a lack of copper coloring). Silver versions also weigh more — about 24.59 grams versus 22.68 grams for clad coins.
Grading Makes a Difference This six-figure coin was in nearly perfect condition, graded MS67 or higher by PCGS, which greatly boosts its value.
You Might Still Have One Because Eisenhower dollars weren’t widely used, many ended up in drawers, jars, or bank rolls — meaning a rare and valuable one could still be hiding in your wallet or old collection.