-
Inventory:
OUT OF STOCK
- Product ID: 27320
Checkout
The Certified Eisenhower Dollar 1978-S PR69DCAM PCGS represents the final issue in the Eisenhower dollar series, closing a short yet historically important chapter in modern U.S. coinage. Struck at the San Francisco Mint and graded PR69DCAM (Proof 69 Deep Cameo) by the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS), this coin is a nearly perfect proof specimen with deeply mirrored fields and frosted devices, offering collectors a high-quality example of the last year of the Ike dollar. The 1978-S issue marks the end of the large-size U.S. dollar coin era, as it would be replaced in 1979 by the smaller Susan B. Anthony dollar.
The Eisenhower dollar series was introduced in 1971 to honor General Dwight D. Eisenhower, the Supreme Allied Commander during World War II and 34th President of the United States. It also commemorated the Apollo 11 moon landing, a technological feat achieved in 1969. The coin was the first circulating U.S. dollar since the Peace dollar ended in 1935, and it was the only large-size dollar coin produced in both clad and silver compositions for circulation and collectors. The series concluded in 1978 with the release of the final Eisenhower dollar, which is featured here in its proof format.
The obverse of the 1978-S Eisenhower dollar was designed by Frank Gasparro, the Chief Engraver of the U.S. Mint. It features a left-facing bust of Dwight D. Eisenhower, flanked by the inscription “LIBERTY” above, with “IN GOD WE TRUST” placed to the left of the portrait. The date “1978” appears at the base of the bust, and the “S” mintmark of the San Francisco Mint is found below the neckline of the portrait. On a PR69DCAM example, the obverse fields are deeply mirrored, contrasting dramatically with the frosted appearance of the bust and inscriptions, a hallmark of Deep Cameo designation.
The reverse design, also by Frank Gasparro, is a stylized representation of the Apollo 11 mission insignia, featuring a bald eagle descending onto the moon’s surface with an olive branch in its talons, symbolizing a peaceful space exploration. The Earth can be seen rising in the distance above the eagle’s wings. Surrounding the central motif are the inscriptions “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” “E PLURIBUS UNUM,” and “ONE DOLLAR.” In PR69DCAM condition, the eagle’s feather details and the lunar surface’s textures stand out vividly with brilliant frost against jet-black fields, enhancing both aesthetic and technical appeal.
Proof Eisenhower dollars from 1978 were struck in a copper-nickel clad composition, consisting of outer layers of 75% copper and 25% nickel bonded to a pure copper core. The coin has a diameter of 38.1 mm, a weight of 22.68 grams, and a reeded edge. It was produced using polished dies and specially treated planchets to achieve the proof finish, which includes multiple strikes to bring out intricate details and the mirrorlike fields. The Deep Cameo designation indicates exceptional contrast between the reflective fields and the frosted devices, which is not common on all proof strikes, particularly for earlier issues.
The San Francisco Mint struck a total of 3,127,781 proof Eisenhower dollars in 1978. These were distributed in official U.S. proof sets alongside other denominations ranging from the Lincoln cent to the Kennedy half dollar. While the overall mintage was significant, the number of coins qualifying as PR69DCAM is relatively small due to common issues with haze, spotting, or weak cameo contrast. A certified PR69DCAM coin represents one of the finest examples available to collectors, with only a small percentage graded at this level and even fewer achieving the top grade of PR70.
Coins graded PR69DCAM by PCGS exhibit nearly flawless surfaces with no visible blemishes to the naked eye and only minute imperfections detectable under magnification. The Deep Cameo designation adds significant appeal, as it confirms the strong visual contrast that collectors prize in modern proof coins. PCGS encapsulation guarantees authenticity, preservation, and the coin’s status as a top-tier example of the issue, providing both confidence and long-term protection. The coin’s visual impact and historical relevance contribute greatly to its desirability.
The value of the 1978-S Eisenhower dollar in PR69DCAM condition typically ranges from $30 to $60, depending on market demand, aesthetic quality, and the type of label used in the holder. Coins with clearer frosting and better mirror surfaces may trade at the higher end of the spectrum. While PR70 examples exist, they are considerably rarer and carry a much higher premium, often exceeding $200. For collectors looking for a high-grade proof without the steep cost of perfection, PR69DCAM offers an ideal balance of quality and value.
The original 1978 proof sets containing this coin were issued by the U.S. Mint in hard plastic cases with a black insert and blue outer sleeve. These sets were mass-produced, but over time, environmental exposure and mishandling have diminished the number of coins retaining their original brilliance and contrast. As a result, certified examples such as this PCGS PR69DCAM Eisenhower dollar have become increasingly popular, offering greater assurance of condition and easier inclusion in registry sets or long-term collections.
As the final coin in the Eisenhower dollar series, the 1978-S proof holds a special place in numismatic history. It represents the end of the era of large, circulating U.S. dollar coins and transitions directly into the Susan B. Anthony dollar program. The series itself has grown in popularity among collectors, and high-grade proofs such as this have become essential components of both type sets and complete Eisenhower dollar collections. The coin is also appealing to collectors of presidential-themed coinage and those interested in the U.S. space program’s representation on currency.
In conclusion, the Certified Eisenhower Dollar 1978-S PR69DCAM PCGS is a top-grade, visually striking proof coin that encapsulates the legacy of President Eisenhower and America’s achievements in space exploration. As the last issue of the series, it holds both historical and numismatic importance. Its flawless Deep Cameo finish, high-quality strike, and PCGS certification make it a superb choice for collectors seeking a modern U.S. dollar proof of exceptional caliber and historical resonance. Its affordability, aesthetic appeal, and status as a series finale ensure enduring interest among numismatists and bullion enthusiasts alike.