The first proof coins that had been purchased in advance by collectors for $10 each were officially distributed on October 14, 1971, President Eisenhowers’ birthday.
There would also be a second type of coin meant for business circulation that did not feature any silver at all but rather a copper and nickel composition (75% copper, 25% nickel). Mint would produce Eisenhower dollar coins composed of a respectable amount of silver (80% silver and 20% copper for the outer layer, 79% copper and 21% silver for the center core) as a collectible commemorative coin. Ultimately the decision was made that the U.S. So it was decided that they would issue a $1 coin in tribute to the late president.Īs the decision for this new coin came at the tail end of the Coinage Act of 1965, all decision-makers, regardless of most agreeing to make the coin, were torn as to whether the coin would be made using any silver as was being done with the John F. history, the country paid homage by placing a figurehead on currency, particularly coins. Eisenhower after his death on March 28, 1969.
The United States wanted to honor former President and World War 2 general Dwight D.
