Drescription: Authorized by the Coinage Act of 1792, U.S. silver dollar production began in 1794 with the "Flowing Hair" design, initially aimed at replacing the Spanish dollar. Early silver coins featured Lady Liberty, transitioning through Draped Bust (1795) and Seated Liberty (1840) designs before the iconic Morgan (1878) and Peace (1921) dollars. Modern base-metal dollars (1971–present) include Eisenhower, Susan B. Anthony, Sacagawea, and Presidential series.

Key Historical Eras of the U.S. Dollar Coin

Early Silver Dollars (1794–1804): The initial Flowing Hair (1794–1795) and Draped Bust (1795–1804) dollars were 90% silver, featuring Liberty on the obverse and an eagle on the reverse. Production paused from 1806 to 1835.

Seated Liberty & Trade Dollars (1836–1885): Gobrecht dollars (1836–1839) led to the long-running Seated Liberty dollar (1840–1873). Trade dollars (1873–1885) were minted specifically for Asian commerce with higher silver content.

Morgan and Peace Dollars (1878–1935): The Morgan dollar (1878–1904, 1921) was created due to the Bland-Allison Act requiring silver purchases. The Peace dollar (1921–1935) was introduced to commemorate the end of World War I.

Modern Clad and Golden Dollars (1971–Present):

Eisenhower Dollar (1971–1978): First to feature a president; used copper-nickel clad.

Susan B. Anthony Dollar (1979–1981, 1999): Introduced a smaller, less popular size.

Sacagawea/Native American Dollar (2000–present): Known for its "golden" color (manganese brass alloy).

Presidential/Innovation Dollars (2007–present): Rotating designs honoring U.S. presidents and innovators.