The 1927 S Peace Dollar is a very famous coin among collectors and numismatists. It is extremely valuable because it has unique qualities, historical value, and complex design.It is part of the famous Peace Dollar series. However, not every silver dollar has been produced similarly. Collectors may make wise choices if they are familiar with the 1927 S Peace Dollar’s details, special features, and market value.
This article will provide you with comprehensive details about the grade, value, and key features of a 1927 silver dollar, whether you already have one or are thinking about buying one. Let’s get started!
Historical Background of the 1927 S Peace Dollar
In 1921, the long-standing Morgan Dollar changed with the Peace Dollar series. It symbolized the end of World War I and the sense of hope of America for a future without conflict. Anthony de Francisci designed the coin and the coin’s images of liberty and peace represented the values of the time.
The series was short-lived, running from 1921 to 1928, with a short renewal in 1934 and 1935. The 1927 Peace Dollar was minted at three structures: Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco. Among these, the San Francisco coins, marked with an “S,” are regarded as especially rare and valuable due to their lower mintage and production challenges.
1927 S Peace Dollar Overview
The 1927 S Peace Dollar is for several reasons. Its low mintage of 866,000 coins makes it scarce compared to other Peace Dollars. Also, coins from the San Francisco Mint are known for their unique marks and bag marks, adding to their identity.
High-grade 1927 S Peace Dollars, especially those graded MS65 and above, are very rare. Coins in gem condition are highly coveted and fetch premium prices at auctions.
Coin Specifications
- Composition: 90% Silver, 10% Copper
- Weight: 26.73 grams
- Diameter: 38.1 mm
- Edge: Reeded
- Designer: Anthony de Francisci
The coin’s design with 90% silver and 10% copper makes it valuable and durable. Its standard diameter and reeded edge were exact with those of other silver dollars of the time.
Design Features
Obverse Design
The obverse side of the coin has Lady Liberty wearing a radiant crown, representing freedom and culture. The inscription “LIBERTY” curves above her head, while the national motto, “IN GOD WE TRUST,” is separated on either side of her neck. The date “1927” is prominently displayed under her portrait.
Reverse Design
On the reverse side of the coin, a majestic bald eagle stands perched on a rock, clutching an olive branch to symbolize peace. Behind the eagle, sun rays appear from the horizon, representing a new era. The inscriptions “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and “E PLURIBUS UNUM” arc across the top, while “ONE DOLLAR” and “PEACE” meet the approach.
Mint Mark and Mintage Figures
The San Francisco Mint’s “S” mark is found on the reverse side of the coin, under the word “ONE.” Only 866,000 coins were minted, the 1927 S Peace Dollar is a very important collector’s date. It has higher grades scarcity further improves its value.
Mint Mintage
Philadelphia: 848,000
Denver: 1,268,900
San Francisco: 866,000
Grading the 1927 S Peace Dollar
Grading is very important to determine a coin’s value. The Sheldon Scale, varying from PO1 (poor) to MS70 (perfect mint state), is utilized by professional graders. Standard grades for the 1927 S Peace Dollar have:
- Good (G4): Worn with visual outlines.
- Very Fine (VF20): Moderate wear with clear points.
- Mint State (MS60+): No circulation, but may have little marks.
Top-grade coins, like MS65 and above, are rare and bring thousands of dollars.
1927 S Peace Dollar Value by Condition
The value of a 1927 S Peace Dollar varies significantly by grade:
GradeValue (USD)
Good (G4): $31
Very Fine: $48
About Uncirculated: $135
Uncirculated (MS60): $325
Gem (MS65): $6,500
Coins graded MS66 or higher have auctioned for tens of thousands of dollars.
Comparison of 1927 Peace Dollars from All Mints
The Peace Dollars minted in 1927 are very unique because of their limited production and changing requirements across various mint facilities. Here’s how the three mints compare:
- Philadelphia (No Mint Mark): Only 848,000 Philadelphia Peace Dollars were produced, which makes them rare but often worth a little more than their contemporaries from Denver and San Francisco. Even now, high-quality examples can produce notable totalities; MS65 coins are worth around $2,000.
- (D Mint Mark) Denver: Denver produced 1,268,900 Peace Dollars, which enhanced their circulation grade popularity. In uncirculated form, however, they are worth more than Philadelphia coins; MS65 examples start at $4,250. The auction record for a Denver coin with an MS66+ grade is $176,250.
- San Francisco (S Mint Mark): The San Francisco Mint made 866,000 coins, establishing it between Philadelphia and Denver in terms of mintage. Its coins are particularly rare in gem grades, with MS65 coins valued at $6,500 and auction records earning $78,000 for MS66 specimens.
Error Coins and Rare Varieties
The 1927 Peace Dollar series doesn’t have many error coins, but there are a few common changes that offer collectors attention and value.
Doubled Motto Error
The motto “IN GOD WE TRUST” is visibly doubled on certain Denver-minted coins, showing this error. This doubling, which results from a misplaced die, is most noticeable when enlarged. Depending on their grade, coins that included this error will sell for over $1,000.
Error Micro D
Only Denver-minted coins have the “Micro D” error, which happens when the “D” mint mark is significantly smaller than normal. This mistake was probably caused by a shallow or misplaced punch during minting. Coins that exhibit this rare condition are in great demand and can sell for high prices.
Auction Records and Notable Sales
High-grade 1927 S Peace Dollars have some examples at main auctions. These are:
- MS66, San Francisco:Â price is $78,000 in 2022.
- MS66+, Denver: Record-breaking price is $176,250 in 2019.
- MS66, Philadelphia: price is $36,000 at an auction in 2018.
Conclusion
The 1927 S Peace Dollar is a very famous and rare coin and it is very highly demanded by collectors and numastics for its historical value, beauty, and rarity. This coin is an excellent addition to any collection, whichever your level of experience or interest in numismatics. Its unique features and limited availability in higher grades guarantee that it will continue to be highly desirable for many generations to come.