1972 Eisenhower Dollar – If you’ve got a pile of old coins sitting in a drawer or an inherited coin collection collecting dust, it might be time to check if you’re sitting on a small fortune. One of the most valuable U.S. coins from the 1970s – the 1972 Eisenhower Dollar Type 2 – has recently sold for as much as $12,000 at auction, and it’s possible you might have one without even knowing. But identifying this rare Type 2 variety isn’t easy unless you know exactly what to look for. In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know about the 1972 Eisenhower Dollar Type 2 – how to spot it, why it’s so valuable, and how to check if yours could be worth thousands.
What Is the 1972 Eisenhower Dollar?
The Eisenhower Dollar was minted between 1971 and 1978, honoring President Dwight D. Eisenhower and the Apollo 11 moon landing. Most of these coins are common and hold little more than face value in circulated condition, but a few rare varieties from 1972 have become highly valuable to collectors.
In 1972, the Philadelphia Mint produced three different reverse designs, known as Type 1, Type 2, and Type 3. Type 2 is the rarest of the three, and it’s what makes this coin worth up to $12,000 in top condition.
How Rare Is the Type 2 Variety?
- Only around 100,000 Type 2 Eisenhower Dollars were ever minted.
- It was accidentally struck with a reverse die meant for proof coins, which were supposed to be used only for collector sets.
- Because this die was used at the Philadelphia Mint for circulation coins, the Type 2 became a mistake variety, making it extremely valuable today.
How to Spot a Type 2 Eisenhower Dollar
Identifying a Type 2 Ike Dollar can be tricky, especially if you don’t know where to look. Here are the key steps:
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Look at the Reverse Design (Back Side of the Coin)
The easiest way to identify the Type 2 is by examining the Earth above the eagle on the reverse.
- Type 1: The Earth has clear outlines of Florida and the Caribbean.
- Type 2: The Earth appears blurry and smooth, with no clear outlines – this is the rare version!
- Type 3: The Earth has slightly better detail than Type 2 but still distinguishable from Type 1.
Key Visual Differences Table
| Feature | Type 1 | Type 2 | Type 3 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Earth Detail | Sharp, clear continents | Blurry, indistinct Earth | Defined, but less sharp |
| Continent Visibility | Florida & Caribbean visible | No continents clearly visible | Partial visibility |
| Die Origin | Intended for circulation | Proof die used in error | Updated circulation die |
| Rarity | Common | Very rare (~100,000) | Common |
| Estimated Value (MS65) | $10–$40 | Up to $12,000+ | $10–$60 |
Where to Find One?
You might find a 1972 Type 2 Eisenhower Dollar in:
- Old coin rolls or bank sets
- Inherited coin collections
- Estate sales or flea markets
- Garage sales with old coin stashes
The best part? Many of these coins still appear in circulation or cheap coin lots because they look almost identical to common Ike dollars.
How Much Is It Worth?
The value depends on condition, grade, and whether it’s certified by a grading agency like PCGS or NGC.
Estimated Values by Grade:
| Condition | Estimated Value |
|---|---|
| Circulated (Fine-VF) | $300–$700 |
| AU (Almost Uncirculated) | $1,000–$2,000 |
| MS63 | $3,000–$4,500 |
| MS65 or Higher | $10,000–$12,000 |
How to Get It Authenticated
If you think you have a 1972 Type 2 dollar, don’t try to clean it – that lowers the value.
Instead:
- Take clear photos of the reverse side.
- Compare with known examples from NGC or PCGS websites.
- Submit the coin to a professional grading service for authentication.
- Join online forums like CoinTalk or Collectors Universe for help from experienced collectors.
Tips to Avoid Getting Scammed
Because of the coin’s high value, counterfeits and misleading eBay listings are common.
- Avoid listings that don’t provide clear close-up photos of the Earth design.
- Be cautious of sellers who don’t offer returns or use vague terms like “Type-like.”
- Check seller reviews and ask for certification proof if the coin is labeled as Type 2.
The 1972 Type 2 Eisenhower Dollar is a hidden treasure among U.S. coins. It’s a great reminder that even modern-looking coins can hold surprising value if you know what to look for. With only 100,000 ever produced and few surviving in top condition, this coin remains one of the most sought-after modern U.S. coin varieties. So go ahead—check your stash. You might be holding a $12,000 coin and not even know it.
FAQs
Q1. What makes the 1972 Eisenhower Dollar Type 2 so rare?
A1. It was accidentally struck with a proof reverse die, making it a mint error variety with limited circulation.
Q2. How can I tell if my coin is a Type 2?
A2. Look for the smooth, blurry Earth on the reverse with no visible outlines of continents.
Q3. Can circulated Type 2 dollars still be valuable?
A3. Yes, even circulated Type 2 coins can fetch several hundred to a few thousand dollars depending on condition.
Q4. Should I clean the coin before selling it?
A4. No. Cleaning can reduce the coin’s value significantly. Always leave coins in their natural state.
Q5. Where can I get my coin authenticated?
A5. Reputable grading services like PCGS and NGC can professionally grade and certify the coin’s authenticity.
