1972 Eisenhower Dollar (Gold-Plated/Novelty Appearance)
Coin (Numismatic/Exonumia) · None (Base metal imitation; appears as gold-toned plating over copper-nickel)
Purity: 0K (Nickel-Copper-Zinc Alloy with Non-Standard Plating)
Type
Coin (Numismatic/Exonumia)
Purity
0K (Nickel-Copper-Zinc Alloy with Non-Standard Plating)
Gold Type
None (Base metal imitation; appears as gold-toned plating over copper-nickel)
Weight
22.68 grams (standard mint weight for Cu-Ni business strike)
Description
A United States Eisenhower One Dollar coin dated 1972, featuring the left-facing profile of Dwight D. Eisenhower. This specific specimen has been modified with a gold-colored coating, often sold as a collectible novelty item.
Key Features
Large 'Ike' dollar profile; 1972 date; absence of mint mark (Philadelphia) or 'D' (Denver); third-party gold plating.
Color & Finish
Yellow-gold hue surface over a matte grey-silver base; shows uneven toning and possible plating wear
Hallmarks & Stamps
None (Coins do not have karats; marked with 'LIBERTY', 'IN GOD WE TRUST', and '1972')
Dimensions Estimate
Diameter of 38.1 mm, Thickness of 2.58 mm (Standard Large Dollar size)
Gemstones & Inlays
None
Clasp & Closure
Reeded edge (Standard coin milling)
Chain & Links
N/A
Craftsmanship Details
Standard US Mint strike quality; post-mint plating lacks the precision of official bullion products.
Authentication Indicators
Red Flag: Standard 1972 Eisenhower dollars were never minted in gold; weight and 'heft' do not match solid gold coins.
Origin & Maker
United States Mint (Philadelphia or Denver mint likely)
Era & Period
Contemporary (Modern Era, originally minted 1971-1978)
Age Estimate
Produced in 1972; plating likely added post-mint by a third party
Cultural Significance
Represents the 34th President and the culmination of the US Space Race era.
Condition Notes
Circulated condition (Very Good to Fine); surface scratches visible; plating appears thin or compromised on high relief areas.
Value Estimate
Melt value is nearly zero for gold; Market value is approximately $1.00 to $3.00 as a novelty item.
Care & Maintenance
Do not use abrasive cleaners as they will strip the thin gold-toned plating; store in a PVC-free flip.
Similar Items
1972-S Silver Proof Eisenhower Dollar (40% silver); standard copper-nickel 'Ike' dollar.
Interesting Facts
The Eisenhower Dollar was the last large-sized US dollar coin meant for circulation; the reverse (not pictured) commemorates the Apollo 11 moon landing.