The value of a 1972 Eisenhower dollar, a large-size coin featuring President Dwight D. Eisenhower, is determined primarily by its condition and composition. Coins intended for circulation are made of a copper-nickel clad alloy, while some special editions contain silver. Determining whether a particular specimen contains silver is paramount in assessing its worth.
The historical significance of these dollars lies in their issuance during a period when the United States transitioned away from silver coinage. The silver content, if present, considerably elevates the coin’s intrinsic metal value above its face value. Furthermore, well-preserved specimens, particularly those graded highly by reputable coin grading services, command a premium due to their scarcity and appeal to collectors.