Expert: PAPAJACK - 12/27/2006

Question
I have several hundred Eisenhower dollars.  My research showed me that approx 250 million Eisenhower dollars were made by the Mint.  Are these all is the hands of the public, or does the Mint hold some back?  Does the Mint "retire" coins like they retire worn out paper money?

Answer
Hello Tom,   

Yes all the Eisenhower dollar coins were sent to banks a long time ago. My clad mintages show closer to 681 million issued to collectors and the banks. Some of the 1971 to 1976 San Francisco coins have silver in them and sell at a higher level.
Most did make it into circulation. By now some are being melted or otherwise destroyed. As the US Coins wear the mint or federal reserve does get them back for melting.
The average coins life, according to the mint is about 30 years.

For the Eisenhower years 1971 to 1978 including 1776-1976 (the Bicentennial issues). They are only collected in Mint State  Grade by collectors at this time.
These Eisenhower Dollars are Copper clad with Nickel and sell for less than $2.00 in circulated grades. If worn, scratched or marred in any way  they sell at face value to about $1.15  
Also some of these were made at different mints and that makes them vary in price. A bit more for the S (San Francisco mint) if proof and or silver issue. These silver issues came in blue or brown packages.

Please remember to rate this answer. And check the nomination box on the rating page below any comments you may have.

Thank You and Good Luck

PapaJack