The value of a 1974 one dollar coin (Eisenhower Dollar) depends on several factors, including:
- Mint Mark:
– Coins with no mint mark (Philadelphia mint) or a ‘D’ mint mark (Denver mint) are generally less valuable than those with an ‘S’ mint mark (San Francisco mint).
– San Francisco minted both clad and 40% silver coins, as well as proof versions of both.
- Composition:
– Clad: Most 1974 Eisenhower Dollars are composed of a copper-nickel clad material.
– 40% Silver: Some 1974 Eisenhower Dollars minted in San Francisco are made of 40% silver. These are typically worth more due to their silver content.
– [According to NGC] , as of August 13, 2025, the melt value of a 40% silver Eisenhower dollar is $12.18.
- Condition and Grade:
– Circulated: Coins in circulated condition (with wear and tear) are generally worth face value ($1) or slightly more.
– Uncirculated (Mint State – MS): Coins in pristine, uncirculated condition can be worth significantly more, ranging from a few dollars to several thousand dollars depending on the grade assigned by grading services like NGC or PCGS.
– Proof: Proof coins are specially struck coins with a mirror-like finish, typically produced for collectors. Proof versions, especially with cameo or deep cameo designations, can fetch higher prices.
- Errors and Varieties: Rare errors or varieties can dramatically increase a coin’s value. Examples include:
– Struck on a silver planchet (should not be silver).
– Struck on a dime planchet (double denomination).
– Die adjustment strikes.
In summary
- A circulated 1974 Eisenhower dollar (non-silver) is generally worth face value or slightly above, in the range of $1.05 to $1.50.
- An uncirculated 1974 Eisenhower dollar (non-silver) can be worth a few dollars, potentially reaching up to $2000 in excellent condition.
- A 1974-S Eisenhower dollar (40% silver) is worth at least its melt value, which is currently around $12.18.
- High-grade, uncirculated, or proof examples of the 1974-S silver dollar, especially with cameo or deep cameo designations, can be worth much more, potentially reaching up to $9000.
- Errors or rare varieties can make certain 1974 Eisenhower dollars extremely valuable, potentially fetching thousands of dollars at auction. For example, a 1974 Eisenhower dollar struck on a silver planchet sold for over $7000. Another example, a 1974-D ICG MS67 Eisenhower dollar, is listed for $1804.05.
It is recommended to have your coin professionally graded by a reputable service like NGC or PCGS to determine its exact condition, authenticity, and potential value.
What is the error coin on the 1974 dollar coin?
One popular and exceedingly rare 1974 silver dollar error is often known as the “ silver planchet Ike dollar.” These coins were mistakenly struck on the silver planchet used to make San Francisco’s silver Ike dollars.
Is a coin from 1974 rare?
Great question! The 1974 penny, while mass-produced, includes valuable variations like the 1974 S mint mark and rare aluminum versions that can fetch high prices in auctions. Grading is crucial for determining a penny’s value, with higher-grade coins like ‘Gem Uncirculated’ being significantly more sought after by collectors.