Why the 1964 Peace Dollar is America’s Rarest Coin
- Last U.S. silver dollar design before the series was permanently discontinued.
- Only 12 prototypes struck at the Denver Mint.
- All but one officially melted by the U.S. Treasury.
- Only known surviving example is held in a private collection.
Key Identification Features
If you ever suspect you’ve found one, check for these telltale traits:
- Weight: 26.73g (standard Peace Dollar specification)
- Composition: 90% silver, 10% copper
- Mint Mark: Small “D” on the reverse, below the eagle
- Edge Lettering: “E PLURIBUS UNUM” present
- Surface Quality: Proof-like finish with minimal marks
- Date: 1964 — the only Peace Dollar bearing this year
Pro Tip: Only coins with full Denver Mint pedigree documentation are genuine.
Record Sales & Value Timeline
| Year | Event | Value |
|---|---|---|
| 1964 | Struck at Denver Mint | Face value |
| 1965 | Discovered in vault | $10,000 |
| 1973 | First private sale | $75,000 |
| 1999 | Auction record | $1.2 million |
| 2021 | Private treaty sale | $7.8 million |
| 2024 | Insurance valuation | $10 million+ |
Why It’s Worth $10 Million
Unique survivor of a cancelled coin series
Documented by U.S. Mint records
Final silver dollar of its kind
Museum-grade rarity sought by top-tier collectors
Authentication is Critical
Due to its extreme rarity, fakes are common. Be cautious of:
- Altered-date Peace Dollars (1921–1935 coins modified to read “1964”)
- Illegal modern restrikes
- High-grade counterfeits circulating in the numismatic market
Verification Checklist
- Metallurgical testing
- Mint archive provenance
- PCGS or NGC certification with special “1964-D Peace Dollar” label
Where It Might Be Found
- Forgotten private collections
- Bank vaults with old silver dollar hoards
- Foreign holdings shipped before 1973
- Safety deposit boxes from estates or inheritances
What To Do If You Find One
- Do NOT clean or polish the coin — it will destroy the value.
- Handle only by the edges with cotton gloves.
- Store in a secure, climate-controlled bank vault.
- Contact PCGS or NGC for immediate authentication.
- Work with legal counsel and auction houses like Heritage Auctions — U.S. Treasury approval is required for sales.
