One of the rarest and most valuable Peace Dollar varieties is the 1922 High Relief Peace Dollar. While most 1922 Peace Dollars were minted in “Normal Relief,” which means their design is less defined, a small number were minted in high relief. This rare, high-relief design stands out for its sharper features and detailed artwork. The 1922 High Relief coins were originally created in response to the success of the 1921 High Relief Peace Dollar design, which was celebrated for its beauty but led to quicker wear on the dies used for minting.
However, producing high relief coins caused excessive wear on the dies, so early in 1922, the U.S. Mint shifted to the more practical lower relief design. Out of the original 35,401 High Relief coins, nearly all were melted down, leaving only about 10 to 12 known High Relief Proof (Matte Proof) Peace Dollars in existence today, along with a single known non-proof business strike coin.
Key Differences Between High Relief and Normal Relief 1922 Peace Dollars
Identifying a 1922 High Relief Peace Dollar is relatively simple if you know what to look for. Both the obverse (front) and reverse (back) of the coin show distinguishing characteristics:
Obverse (Front) Differences
- Thicker Date and Lettering: The numbers in the date and the letters appear thicker on the high relief variety.
- Crown Spikes: The spikes on Liberty’s crown are shorter and thicker on the high relief variety. In contrast, on the normal relief version, the spikes are longer, thinner, and an extra small spike is present between the two left-most spikes near the “E” in “LIBERTY.”
Reverse (Back) Differences
- Clearer Lettering: On the high relief version, the letters are thicker and clearer, particularly in the word “PEACE” at the coin’s base, which can appear blurred on the normal relief version.
- Detailed Eagle and Rays: The eagle’s details and the rays behind it are more pronounced on the high relief version. Additionally, two rays pass through the “O” in “DOLLAR” on the high relief coin, while only one ray appears on the normal relief version.
Value and Rarity of the 1922 High Relief Peace Dollar
Given the limited number of these coins, the 1922 High Relief Peace Dollar is a prized possession in the numismatic world. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated value:
- 1922 High Relief Proof (Matte Proof): Only 10 to 12 of these coins are estimated to exist. Due to their rarity, they can fetch substantial amounts, sometimes surpassing hundreds of thousands of dollars at auction.
- 1922 Non-Proof High Relief Business Strike: Only one known example exists, making it incredibly valuable, often priced well above the Proof coins due to its unique status.
Coin Details for Collectors
| Feature | High Relief Peace Dollar |
|---|---|
| Mint Year | 1922 |
| Relief Type | High Relief (Proof and Business Strike) |
| Mintage | 35,401 original mintage, most melted |
| Remaining Examples | 10-12 Proofs, 1 business strike |
| Metal Content | 90% Silver, 10% Copper |
| Diameter | 38.1 mm |
| Designer | Anthony de Francisci |
Graph: Comparison of 1922 Peace Dollar Variants
Below is a chart illustrating the different reliefs and their availability:
- 1921 High Relief (Common)
- 1922 Normal Relief (Common)
- 1922 High Relief Proof (Very Rare)
- 1922 High Relief Business Strike (Unique)
(Graph to visually represent quantities, rarity, and general values will be included.)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the 1922 High Relief Peace Dollar worth?
High Relief Proof versions are worth hundreds of thousands of dollars due to their rarity, while the sole business strike example holds an even higher value.
How can I identify a 1922 High Relief Peace Dollar?
Look for thicker dates, bolder letters, and specific differences in the crown spikes and rays around the eagle on the reverse side.
What factors contribute to the value of the 1922 High Relief Peace Dollar?
The coin’s rarity, relief type, and its condition are key factors, with high relief varieties being exceptionally rare.
Why did the U.S. Mint change the design from high relief to normal relief?
The high relief design caused excessive wear on minting dies, leading the Mint to adopt a lower relief for greater production efficiency.
How many 1922 High Relief Peace Dollars still exist?
Approximately 10 to 12 high relief proof coins and one known non-proof business strike exist today.
What makes the 1922 High Relief Peace Dollar so special?
Its beauty, rarity, and the historical transition from high to normal relief make this coin highly desirable.
Where can I sell a 1922 High Relief Peace Dollar?
Specialized auctions, reputable dealers, and numismatic marketplaces are ideal for selling rare coins like this.
Does the condition significantly impact the value of a 1922 High Relief Peace Dollar?
Yes, condition is crucial; even among the small number of these coins, those in pristine condition command the highest prices.
The 1922 High Relief Peace Dollar remains a treasure for collectors, representing a rare glimpse into the artistry and production challenges of early 20th-century U.S. coinage.