Dwight D. Eisenhower is one of the USA’s most popular presidents, and was responsible for a number of achievements including his role as the Supreme Commander of the Allied Forces during WW2 and for the development of the national interstate road system. After WW2 he became the very first NATO Supreme Commander and would run for president in 1952 through the Republican Party. He won the 1952 election with a landslide victory and did so again in 1956. Eisenhower’s political philosophy involved the containment of the Soviet Union, decreasing federal deficits and utilizing nuclear deterrence. He first appeared on coinage which was issued in 1971, but reappeared on this silver coin which was issued in 1990, as it marked the 100^th year of his birth.

Eisenhower Coin Highlights

The coin’s obverse side was designed by John Mercanti, a noted engraver of the U.S. Mint. It features portraits which are opposite faced and conjoined of Eisenhower which represent his role as both a man of peace and war. A portrait of him as American president from 1953 to 1961 was superimposed above that of him as the WW2 Allied Commander. Above his bust is an inscription which reads “Eisenhower Centennial.” Beneath are the dates 1890 through 1990. The mintmark can be found below the inscription “Liberty” in the center. The initials of Mercanti can be seen near the truncation for the bust.

The coin’s reverse side was designed by Marcel Jovine and showcases Eisenhower’s residence in Pennsylvania (Gettysburg) but the location is not specifically noted. Many enthusiasts feel that an image of his place of birth was more appropriate. The coin’s balance consists largely of inscriptions which are statutory, and the initials of Jovine can be seen near the shrubbery on the right side.

This coin has a number of characteristics which are common among American coins which were struck during the 1980s and early 1990s. Staffers of the U.S. Mint were expected to identify the submissions they made, whereas outside artists were allowed to make labels using only numbers. Proofs for the coin were created at the Mint of Philadelphia and the pieces which are uncirculated were produced at the West Point Mint. This was unusual at the time as most commemoratives other than gold were not struck at this facility. However, West Point was selected because it was the location of the American Military Academy, where Eisenhower begin his military career.

The ordering period started in January of 1990 with uncirculated and proof versions being made available to the public. The prices, as expected, rose shortly after its release. A total of just over 1.1 million units were issued, which were comprised of .90 percent silver. The coin was highly successful, although the large sales which were anticipated from veterans didn’t materialize. The coin is more popular among members of the general public and today it has become sought after by collectors.