1921 Peace Silver Dollar

Quick Overview

In late 1921, Anthony de Francisci won a competition among eight of America’s leading sculptors for the design of a new Silver Dollar. Known as the Peace Dollar, it was intended as a tribute to world peace after the end of World War I. The first coins, dated 1921, were struck in the last days of 1921 but were not released into circulation until January 3, 1922. The first coin was presented to President Warren G. Harding. It was the first U.S. coin issued to celebrate peace.

The obverse of the Peace Silver Dollar features an Art Deco portrait of Liberty. The model for Liberty was de Francisci’s wife, Teresa Cafarelli. The reverse is a unique symbol of peace. The Eagle that dominates the design holds only an olive branch of peace in its talons, instead of the usual olive branch and arrows of defense. In addition, the word “Peace” is inscribed at the bottom of the coin. Finally, the rays in the background represent the dawn of a new day in history.

Minted in limited numbers, all Peace dollars with the 1921 date mark were stamped in high relief. Found to be impractical for daily use, this design was changed to the more common shallow relief in 1922. Struck in .900 Fine Silver this coin makes a stunning addition to any collection.