The History of the U.S. Peace Silver Dollar

The Peace Silver Dollar stands as one of the most meaningful coins in American history. Introduced after World War I, it was created to symbolize peace, hope, and a new era for the United States. As the final circulating silver dollar struck by the U.S. Mint, the Peace dollar marks the end of a historic chapter in American coinage.

Today, it remains a favorite among collectors for its symbolism, bold design, and silver content.

Why the Peace Dollar Was Created

Following the end of World War I, there was a strong national desire to commemorate peace. Numismatists, artists, and lawmakers supported the idea of a new silver dollar that would celebrate victory and lasting peace rather than war.

In 1921, the U.S. Mint officially approved the Peace Silver Dollar, making it the first U.S. coin specifically designed to honor peace.

Design and Artistic Significance

The Peace dollar was designed by Italian-American sculptor Anthony de Francisci, and its modern look set it apart from earlier silver dollars.

Obverse: A youthful Lady Liberty wearing a radiant crown, symbolizing freedom, optimism, and a new beginning.
Reverse: A bald eagle perched on a rock, holding an olive branch, with the word PEACE boldly inscribed below—an unmistakable message.

Unlike previous coins, the eagle appears calm and at rest, reinforcing the theme of peace rather than strength through force.

First-Year High Relief Coins (1921)

The first Peace dollars struck in 1921 featured a high-relief design, giving the coin exceptional depth and detail. While visually stunning, the design was difficult to strike efficiently.

Beginning in 1922, the Mint reduced the relief to improve production. As a result, 1921 Peace dollars are especially desirable among collectors.

Years of Production and Mint Marks (1921–1935)

Peace silver dollars were minted from 1921 to 1935 at three U.S. Mint locations:

Philadelphia (no mint mark)
San Francisco (S)
Denver (D)

Several dates and mint mark combinations are considered key or semi-key, adding challenge and excitement for collectors building complete sets.

The End of Circulating Silver Dollars

By the mid-1930s, silver dollars were no longer widely used in everyday commerce. Economic pressures and changing monetary policies led to the end of Peace dollar production in 1935, making it the final circulating U.S. silver dollar.

No regular-issue silver dollars would be struck again for circulation, cementing the Peace dollar’s place in history.

Why Peace Silver Dollars Are Still Popular Today

Collectors and investors continue to value Peace dollars for many reasons:

Powerful historical symbolism
Distinctive, modern design
.900 fine silver content
Manageable date and mint mark set
Strong collector demand

Peace dollars are especially appealing to collectors who appreciate both artistic beauty and historical meaning.

Own a symbol of American peace and history.

Explore our selection of Peace silver dollars or contact us today to learn more about collecting and investing in these iconic U.S. coins.