The phrase identifies a specific United States coin: a silver dollar minted in 1922 featuring the image of Lady Liberty. This refers to the Peace Dollar, designed by Anthony de Francisci, which was minted to commemorate the end of World War I and to symbolize peace. The coin’s obverse depicts a youthful Lady Liberty facing left, while the reverse shows an eagle perched on a rock, clutching an olive branch, with the word “Peace” inscribed below.
This particular coin is significant to collectors due to its historical context, silver content, and potential numismatic value. The Peace Dollar series represents a tangible piece of American history, reflecting the nation’s aspirations for global harmony following a major conflict. Its intrinsic value stems from its composition of 90% silver, making it a tangible asset. Furthermore, its value is influenced by factors such as its condition, mint mark, and rarity of specific varieties, making it an attractive asset for both collectors and investors.
The following sections will delve into detailed aspects of this silver dollar. These sections include the coin’s design origins, the factors influencing its value, its place in the broader landscape of American coinage, and how to properly care for and identify genuine examples.
1. Design Details
The design details of the 1922 Peace Dollar are intrinsically linked to its identity and value. Each element, from the depiction of Lady Liberty to the eagle on the reverse, contributes to the coin’s historical narrative and aesthetic appeal. The obverse features a youthful Lady Liberty, a departure from earlier designs, crowned with a radiating diadem, intended to convey a sense of hope and a new era. These rays, along with the word “Liberty,” the inscription “In God We Trust,” and the year “1922” all contribute to the obverse’s intricate design. The reverse displays an eagle perched on a rock, clutching an olive branch, symbolizing peace. The rays of the rising sun in the background further reinforce this theme. The precise execution of these design elements, and their preservation over time, are major factors influencing a coin’s grade and, consequently, its value in the numismatic market. For example, a poorly struck coin with soft details will be worth considerably less than a sharply struck example.
Further analysis of the design details reveals the artistic skill of Anthony de Francisci, the coin’s designer. His initials, “AF,” are subtly placed on the truncation of Liberty’s neck. Minute variations in the design, such as the number of rays on Liberty’s crown or the crispness of the eagle’s feathers, can differentiate between different die varieties, increasing a coin’s collectibility. The sharpness of the strike, or the clarity of the design impression, is also crucial. Well-struck examples show crisp details, while weakly struck coins lack definition, which diminishes their aesthetic appeal and market value. The surfaces are also examined for any evidence of polishing or cleaning, which will reduce the value of the coin.
In summary, a thorough understanding of the design details of the 1922 Peace Dollar is essential for evaluating its authenticity, condition, and ultimately, its value. The design serves as a historical record, an artistic expression, and a key determinant of its market worth. The design also enables distinguishing different varieties of the coin. Collectors and investors must scrutinize these elements to make informed decisions. Challenges in identifying subtle design variations and assessing the impact of wear and tear require specialized knowledge and experience, reinforcing the importance of expert appraisal when dealing with these coins.
2. Silver Content
The intrinsic value of a 1922 Peace Dollar is directly linked to its silver content. Each coin contains approximately 0.7734 troy ounces of silver, constituting 90% of its weight. This silver content provides a baseline value independent of its numismatic desirability or condition. The fluctuating price of silver on the commodities market directly influences the minimum value one could expect to receive for the coin, regardless of its collectibility. As an example, during periods of high silver prices, the melt value alone can approach or even exceed the value assigned to circulated, common-date examples.
The silver content also affected the coin’s historical role. It guaranteed the coin’s acceptability in commerce and international trade during its active circulation. In an era where precious metal backing was a critical element of currency stability, the silver content contributed to the public’s trust in the dollar. Furthermore, the relatively high silver content compared to other circulating coins of the time, such as dimes and quarters, made it a significant store of wealth for ordinary citizens. A practical application of this understanding is that investors can use Peace Dollars as a hedge against inflation, as the silver content tends to maintain its value during periods of economic uncertainty.
In conclusion, the silver content of the 1922 Peace Dollar is a fundamental aspect of its value and historical significance. While numismatic factors determine much of its value, the silver component provides a crucial base value and influences its performance as a tangible asset. Assessing this silver content accurately, and understanding its relationship to market conditions, is essential for both collectors and investors. However, determining the exact silver content and purity can be challenging due to wear and tear or potential counterfeiting, emphasizing the need for expert verification.
3. Peace Symbolism
The 1922 Peace Dollar, featuring Lady Liberty, transcends its monetary function to serve as a powerful symbol of peace. Its design and historical context are deeply intertwined with the desire for global harmony following the First World War, imbuing the coin with layers of meaning beyond its intrinsic value.
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Lady Liberty’s Depiction
The coin presents a youthful, serene Lady Liberty facing left, a deliberate departure from the more militaristic or confrontational imagery used on previous coins. This change signifies a forward-looking vision, embracing hope and optimism after a period of immense conflict. The radiating crown she wears does not represent war, but the rays of a new dawn. This imagery aimed to distance the nation from its wartime past and project an image of peaceful progress.
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The Eagle and Olive Branch
The reverse of the coin features an eagle, traditionally a symbol of strength and power, clutching an olive branch. This combination of symbols suggests that peace is achieved not through weakness, but through strength tempered with a desire for reconciliation. The eagle is not shown in a warlike stance, but at rest, further emphasizing the theme of peace. The rising sun in the background reinforces this message of hope and a new beginning.
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The Inscription “Peace”
The word “Peace” is prominently inscribed on the coin, leaving no room for ambiguity regarding its intended message. This explicit declaration reinforces the coin’s purpose as a commemorative symbol of the end of World War I and the subsequent pursuit of lasting peace. It is a direct statement reflecting the nation’s collective aspiration for a world free from conflict.
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Historical Context and Intent
The Peace Dollar was conceived during a time of intense national reflection following a devastating global war. Its creation was a direct response to the desire for a symbol that would embody the nation’s commitment to peace and international cooperation. The coin’s designer, Anthony de Francisci, sought to capture this sentiment in his design, creating a lasting visual representation of the pursuit of peace. The historical context is intrinsic to understanding the value of the peace symbolism on the coin.
These elements, combined, transform the 1922 Peace Dollar into more than just a piece of currency. It becomes a tangible reminder of a specific historical moment and a powerful symbol of humanity’s enduring hope for peace. Examining the coin’s design and historical context reveals the profound significance of its peace symbolism, solidifying its place in American history and numismatic value.
4. Mint Marks
Mint marks are crucial identifiers on the 1922 Peace Dollar, indicating the specific United States Mint facility where the coin was produced. For the 1922 Peace Dollar, three mints were involved in its production: Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco. The presence or absence, and type, of a mint mark has a direct effect on a coin’s rarity and thus its numismatic value. Philadelphia-minted coins do not bear a mint mark, Denver-minted coins display a “D,” and San Francisco-minted coins feature an “S,” each located on the reverse, beneath the word “ONE” in “ONE DOLLAR.” These variations in mint marks provide valuable insight into the coin’s origins and production numbers.
The significance of the mint mark stems from the varying quantities produced at each mint. For instance, the 1922-D and 1922-S Peace Dollars typically command a higher premium than the 1922 (Philadelphia) Peace Dollar because fewer were minted at the Denver and San Francisco facilities. An example: if 80 million 1922 Peace Dollars were minted in Philadelphia (no mint mark), 15 million in Denver (“D” mint mark), and 17 million in San Francisco (“S” mint mark), the Denver and San Francisco coins, due to their relative scarcity, would likely be worth more in comparable condition. Understanding these mint mark distinctions enables collectors to identify potentially valuable examples and assess the relative rarity within the series. However, counterfeiters have, in the past, added fraudulent mint marks to common coins to increase their apparent value. As such, authentication by a reputable numismatic expert is crucial.
In summary, mint marks are a key element in understanding the value and history of the 1922 Peace Dollar. They provide a direct link to the coin’s origin and influence its rarity, impacting its value to collectors and investors. However, vigilance is required to detect counterfeiting and alterations. The practical application of this knowledge lies in informed collecting and investing decisions, requiring careful examination of the coin’s mint mark in conjunction with other factors such as condition and authenticity.
5. Coin Grade
The assessment of “coin grade” is paramount in determining the value and desirability of a 1922 silver dollar featuring Lady Liberty, otherwise known as a Peace Dollar. Coin grading is the process of assigning a numerical or adjectival rating to a coin based on its physical condition, accounting for wear, surface preservation, strike quality, and eye appeal. Higher grades indicate better condition, resulting in significantly increased market value. A 1922 Peace Dollar in circulated condition (e.g., Good, Very Good, Fine, Very Fine) will command a price close to its silver melt value, whereas an uncirculated example (Mint State 60 or higher) can fetch a premium of hundreds or even thousands of dollars, depending on the specific grade and the presence of certain desirable characteristics.
The impact of coin grade is illustrated by examining auction results and price guides. For instance, a 1922 Peace Dollar graded as MS-65 (Mint State 65, a high grade) may sell for substantially more than one graded MS-63, even though both are technically uncirculated. Small differences in the amount of luster, the presence of contact marks, or the sharpness of the strike contribute to these variations. Grading services such as Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) and Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC) provide expert, third-party grading, encapsulating coins in tamper-evident holders to protect their grade and authenticity. This certification lends credibility and facilitates trading in the numismatic market. A practical application of understanding coin grading is that collectors and investors can use this knowledge to strategically acquire coins that offer the greatest potential for appreciation based on their condition and grade relative to market prices. It enables informed decision-making and risk mitigation in coin transactions.
In conclusion, coin grading is an indispensable element in the valuation of a 1922 Peace Dollar, significantly influencing its desirability and market value. Understanding the grading scales, the factors that contribute to a coin’s grade, and the role of third-party grading services is crucial for both collectors and investors. A key challenge lies in the subjectivity inherent in grading and the potential for overgrading or misrepresentation, reinforcing the importance of relying on reputable grading services and exercising due diligence. The accurate assessment of coin grade is essential for making informed decisions in the numismatic market, and for effectively preserving the coin for future generations.
6. Rarity Factors
The value of the 1922 silver dollar featuring Lady Liberty, often referred to as a Peace Dollar, is profoundly influenced by a constellation of rarity factors. These factors encompass mintage figures, survival rates, die varieties, and the presence of mint errors, all of which contribute to a coin’s scarcity and, consequently, its desirability among collectors. The interplay between these factors determines whether a specific 1922 Peace Dollar is a common, readily available example or a highly sought-after rarity. Lower mintage figures at specific mints (Denver “D” and San Francisco “S”) compared to Philadelphia (no mint mark) directly translate to increased scarcity and higher premiums for well-preserved examples from those mints. The effects of these rarity factors are amplified over time, as fewer coins survive in higher grades due to circulation and environmental factors.
Die varieties, subtle variations in the die used to strike the coins, also contribute to rarity. While not as widely recognized as mint marks, specific die varieties can command substantial premiums among specialists. Similarly, mint errors, such as double dies, off-center strikes, or planchet defects, can elevate a coin’s value significantly, particularly if the error is visually striking or historically significant. Real-world examples include the 1922-D Peace Dollar with a strong strike and minimal wear, which is far more valuable than a heavily circulated example from the same mint. The practical significance of understanding these rarity factors lies in the ability to make informed collecting and investment decisions, recognizing the potential for appreciation based on a coin’s unique characteristics and scarcity.
In summary, the rarity factors associated with the 1922 silver dollar featuring Lady Liberty, including mintage figures, die varieties, and mint errors, are critical determinants of its value in the numismatic market. Understanding these factors requires careful research, expert knowledge, and the ability to assess a coin’s condition and unique characteristics. Challenges in accurately identifying die varieties and authenticating mint errors emphasize the importance of seeking expert appraisal and relying on reputable grading services. Recognizing the influence of rarity on value enables both collectors and investors to strategically acquire coins with the greatest potential for appreciation and long-term value retention, understanding that higher grade doesn’t always mean higher value if it is a common example.
7. Historical Context
The historical context surrounding the 1922 silver dollar, also known as the Peace Dollar featuring Lady Liberty, is essential for understanding its design, symbolism, and significance as a piece of American coinage. The coin’s creation was directly influenced by the events and sentiments following World War I, shaping its artistic representation and its purpose as a symbol of peace.
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Post-World War I Sentiment
Following the immense devastation of World War I, a strong desire for peace and global harmony permeated American society. The Peace Dollar was conceived as a tangible representation of this aspiration, intended to commemorate the end of the war and symbolize the nation’s commitment to peaceful international relations. The coin’s design reflects this sentiment, moving away from militaristic imagery towards more hopeful and serene depictions.
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The Pittman Act of 1918
The Pittman Act played a crucial role in the Peace Dollar’s creation. This act authorized the melting of millions of silver dollars for sale to Great Britain to stabilize its economy during the war. Following the war, the act also mandated the U.S. government to purchase silver and mint new silver dollars to replace those that had been melted. This legislative action directly led to the creation of both the Peace Dollar and the earlier Morgan Dollar, linking their existence to specific economic and political conditions.
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Design Competition and Selection
A competition was held to select the design for the new silver dollar, reflecting the desire for a symbolic representation of peace. Anthony de Francisci’s design, featuring Lady Liberty and an eagle perched on a rock with an olive branch, was chosen. The design selection process itself highlights the importance placed on creating a coin that would embody the nation’s aspirations for peace and a new era of international cooperation. Public feedback and government oversight played a role in finalizing the coin’s design.
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Shift in American Coinage Symbolism
The Peace Dollar represents a significant shift in American coinage symbolism. Prior to its creation, many U.S. coins featured imagery associated with national strength, expansion, or military achievements. The Peace Dollar, in contrast, explicitly promoted the idea of peace and international understanding, reflecting a changing national identity and a desire to project a more peaceful image to the world. This symbolic shift marks a departure from previous coinage designs and underscores the Peace Dollar’s unique historical context.
These facets of the historical context are inseparable from the meaning and value of the 1922 silver dollar featuring Lady Liberty. They reveal that the coin is not merely a piece of currency, but a powerful symbol of a specific historical moment and the aspirations of a nation recovering from war. A thorough understanding of this context is essential for appreciating the Peace Dollar’s significance and its enduring appeal to collectors and historians alike. The coin serves as a small but significant artifact of early 20th century US history.
8. Collector Demand
Collector demand is a primary driver of value for the 1922 silver dollar featuring Lady Liberty, commonly known as the Peace Dollar. This demand stems from a combination of factors, including the coin’s historical significance, aesthetic appeal, silver content, and relative scarcity in various grades and mint marks. The dynamics of collector demand are complex, influenced by both rational assessments of value and more subjective factors such as personal preference and emotional connection.
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Grade and Condition Sensitivity
The degree to which a 1922 Peace Dollar is well-preserved significantly impacts collector interest and, therefore, its market value. Uncirculated examples, particularly those graded MS-65 or higher by reputable grading services like PCGS or NGC, attract considerable attention from collectors seeking high-quality specimens. Minor imperfections can drastically reduce the value, highlighting the critical role of condition in determining collector desirability. A coin with strong luster and minimal contact marks is highly prized, reflecting the premium placed on original surfaces.
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Mint Mark Scarcity
The presence and type of mint mark on a 1922 Peace Dollar influence its collectibility. Coins minted in Denver (“D” mint mark) and San Francisco (“S” mint mark) typically command higher prices than those minted in Philadelphia (no mint mark), due to lower mintage figures. The relative scarcity of these mint mark varieties makes them more sought after by collectors seeking to complete sets or acquire specific examples. Collector guides and auction records provide data on the varying values of these mint mark varieties.
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Key Date and Variety Interest
While the 1922 Peace Dollar is not considered a key date in the series, certain die varieties and minor errors can generate heightened collector interest. Subtle differences in the design, such as the number of rays on Liberty’s crown or the presence of specific die cracks, may attract specialist collectors willing to pay premiums for these unique examples. Identifying and authenticating these varieties requires expert knowledge and detailed examination, contributing to their exclusive appeal.
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Silver Market Fluctuations
The price of silver has an indirect effect on collector demand for 1922 Peace Dollars. While numismatic value generally outweighs the intrinsic silver value for higher-grade examples, fluctuations in silver prices can influence the demand for lower-grade, circulated coins. During periods of high silver prices, some collectors and investors may choose to acquire Peace Dollars primarily for their silver content, driving up demand and potentially affecting prices across the board. This interplay between numismatic and bullion value adds another layer to collector interest.
In conclusion, collector demand for the 1922 silver dollar featuring Lady Liberty is a multifaceted phenomenon driven by a combination of factors, including grade sensitivity, mint mark scarcity, variety interest, and silver market fluctuations. These factors interact to create a dynamic market where prices can vary significantly based on the specific characteristics of each coin. Understanding these dynamics is essential for both collectors and investors seeking to participate in the numismatic market for Peace Dollars.
9. Investment Potential
The investment potential of the 1922 silver dollar featuring Lady Liberty, commonly referred to as the Peace Dollar, is a multifaceted consideration, drawing on factors that extend beyond the coin’s intrinsic silver value. Its viability as an investment hinges on a confluence of numismatic factors, historical context, and market dynamics.
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Rarity and Condition Premium
The Peace Dollar’s investment potential is significantly influenced by its condition and rarity. Examples in uncirculated condition (MS-60 or higher), particularly those graded by reputable services like PCGS or NGC, command premiums far exceeding their silver value. Coins exhibiting exceptional strike quality, luster, and minimal imperfections are highly sought after, presenting potential for appreciation as demand for high-grade examples remains consistent. Limited mintage years and mint mark varieties further enhance scarcity and investment appeal.
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Hedge Against Economic Uncertainty
Silver, as a precious metal, has historically served as a hedge against inflation and economic downturns. The Peace Dollar, with its 90% silver content, provides a tangible asset that can potentially retain or increase its value during periods of economic instability. While its numismatic value is the primary driver of its price, the silver content provides a baseline value that protects against complete market collapse. However, it’s important to note that silver prices can be volatile.
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Diversification in Investment Portfolios
The inclusion of numismatic coins like the 1922 Peace Dollar can contribute to portfolio diversification. Its value is influenced by different factors than traditional stocks, bonds, or real estate. This diversification can help reduce overall portfolio risk by providing an asset class that is less correlated with conventional financial markets. However, it is important to note that numismatic investments can be less liquid and require specialized knowledge.
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Long-Term Appreciation Potential
Over the long term, the Peace Dollar has demonstrated the potential for significant appreciation in value, especially for rare and high-grade examples. The increasing interest in numismatics among collectors, combined with the finite supply of these coins, creates a favorable environment for long-term growth. However, potential investors must be patient, as returns may not be immediate, and market fluctuations can occur.
Ultimately, the investment potential of the 1922 Peace Dollar depends on a thorough understanding of the numismatic market, the coin’s specific attributes, and broader economic conditions. While it presents opportunities for appreciation and portfolio diversification, it also requires careful consideration and due diligence to navigate the inherent risks involved in investing in rare coins.
Frequently Asked Questions
The following addresses common inquiries regarding the 1922 Silver Dollar featuring Lady Liberty, known as the Peace Dollar, providing factual and concise information.
Question 1: What is the composition of the 1922 Silver Dollar Lady Liberty?
The 1922 Peace Dollar consists of 90% silver and 10% copper. The total silver content is approximately 0.7734 troy ounces.
Question 2: How can the mint mark be located on a 1922 Silver Dollar Lady Liberty?
The mint mark, if present, is located on the reverse of the coin, beneath the word “ONE” in “ONE DOLLAR.” A “D” indicates Denver, an “S” indicates San Francisco, and the absence of a mint mark indicates Philadelphia.
Question 3: What factors influence the value of a 1922 Silver Dollar Lady Liberty?
Key factors include the coin’s condition (grade), mint mark, rarity, any die varieties or errors, and the prevailing price of silver.
Question 4: Is the 1922 Silver Dollar Lady Liberty considered a rare coin?
While not considered a key date, certain mint mark varieties (Denver and San Francisco) and high-grade examples are scarcer and more valuable than common examples from Philadelphia.
Question 5: How does the historical context affect the value of the 1922 Silver Dollar Lady Liberty?
The historical significance as a symbol of peace following World War I enhances its collectibility and desirability, influencing its overall value in the numismatic market.
Question 6: What is the best way to store and protect a 1922 Silver Dollar Lady Liberty?
Proper storage involves using archival-quality holders or albums designed specifically for coins, protecting them from environmental factors like humidity and physical damage.
The Peace Dollars value stems from a combination of its silver content, historical symbolism, and numismatic rarity. These factors are crucial for assessment.
The next section discusses the preservation and authentication of this coin.
Tips on Handling 1922 Silver Dollar Lady Liberty
The preservation and authentication of a 1922 Peace Dollar requires careful attention to detail. Mishandling or improper storage can diminish its value. Recognizing potential counterfeits is essential for any collector or investor.
Tip 1: Handle with Care: Always hold the coin by its edges to avoid transferring oils and contaminants from skin to the coin’s surface. These oils can accelerate tarnishing and degrade the coin’s appearance, negatively impacting its grade and value. Use cotton gloves to provide an additional layer of protection.
Tip 2: Proper Storage is Key: Store the 1922 Peace Dollar in archival-quality holders or albums specifically designed for coins. These holders are made from inert materials that will not react with the coin’s metal and provide protection from environmental factors like humidity and air pollution.
Tip 3: Avoid Cleaning: Never attempt to clean the coin. Cleaning can remove original surface luster and leave microscopic scratches, significantly reducing its numismatic value. Collectors generally prefer coins with original surfaces, even if they exhibit some degree of natural toning.
Tip 4: Authenticate Professionally: If uncertainty exists regarding the coin’s authenticity, seek professional authentication from a reputable grading service like PCGS or NGC. These services employ experts who can identify counterfeit coins and assess their grade accurately.
Tip 5: Check for Red Flags: Be wary of coins offered at prices significantly below market value. Examine the coin closely for inconsistencies in design, weight, and metal composition. Counterfeit coins often exhibit poor detail or have an unnatural color.
Tip 6: Document and Insure: Maintain detailed records of the 1922 Peace Dollar, including purchase date, price, grading information, and photographs. Consider insuring the coin against loss or damage, especially if it is a high-value example.
By following these guidelines, the value and historical integrity of the 1922 Peace Dollar can be preserved. These practices are crucial for responsible ownership.
Concluding the 1922 Peace Dollar analysis, it stands as both a piece of history and a collectible item.
Conclusion
The preceding exploration of the 1922 silver dollar lady liberty, also known as the Peace Dollar, has revealed its multifaceted significance. This coin embodies a unique intersection of historical context, artistic design, intrinsic silver value, and numismatic collectibility. Its status as a symbol of peace following World War I, combined with the varying rarity of different mint marks and the impact of condition on value, positions it as a noteworthy artifact for collectors and investors alike.
The 1922 silver dollar lady liberty serves as a tangible reminder of a pivotal moment in American history and a lasting emblem of the pursuit of global harmony. Continued research, careful preservation, and informed appraisal are essential to safeguarding its legacy and ensuring its continued appreciation in the years to come. Prospective collectors and investors are advised to approach acquisitions with diligence and a thorough understanding of the factors that influence its value.
