Eisenhower Dollars 1971 to 1978

The Eisenhower Dollar were produced by the United States Mint from 1971 to 1978. Congressman Bob Casey of Texas introduced a bill into the House on October 29, 1969 calling for a circulating commemorative dollar to honor both Eisenhower and the Apollo XI space flight and first landing on the moon. Becoming law in 1970, the bill that created the Eisenhower dollar providing for a circulating coin made from the copper-nickel sandwich or clad composition that was being used for dimes and quarters (and for half dollars beginning in 1971).

Chief Engraver Frank Gasparro designed the Eisenhower Dollar. His design portrays on the obverse a bare-headed, left-facing profile bust of the late president. Arranged in an arc above him is the legend LIBERTY, while the motto IN GOD WE TRUST appears in two lines below Eisenhower’s chin. The date is at bottom, with the mintmark (if any) above it and to the right.