In the aftermath of World War I, the United States wanted to commemorate the peace achieved after the conflict. This led to the creation of the Peace Dollar.

In 1921, the U.S. Mint announced a competition to design a new silver dollar to commemorate peace. This competition was open to the public and attracted many artists and designers.

The winning design was submitted by Italian-born American sculptor Anthony de Francisci. His design featured a profile of Liberty on the obverse (front) and a bald eagle clasping an olive branch on the reverse (back), symbolizing peace.

Mintage: The Peace Dollar was first minted in late 1921. It was minted annually until 1928, then again in 1934 and 1935. Recently, mintage began again in 2021.

Composition: The Peace Dollar is composed of 90% silver and 10% copper, similar to other U.S. silver coins of the time.

The design of the Peace Dollar holds deep symbolism. Liberty is depicted wearing a radiant crown to symbolize the glory of peace, and the eagle on the reverse is perched on a rock inscribed with the word “PEACE.”

The production of Peace Dollars ceased in 1935 due to the provisions of the Pittman Act, which required the melting of millions of silver dollars. Additionally, the demand for silver dollars had diminished, and the coinage of silver dollars was suspended until the 1960s.

Overall, the American Peace Dollar stands as a tangible representation of the desire for peace following a tumultuous period in global history. Its design and symbolism continue to resonate with collectors and historians alike.