Rare Eisenhower Dollar Prototype Will Auction in October

A scarce 1971-S Eisenhower dollar prototype featuring unique lunar details is set for public auction.

Updated on Oct. 10, 2026 in Collecting

Screen-print poster illustration showing an abstract, stylized close-up of a coin's cratered metallic surface, capturing the essence of numismatic history. — A rare 1971-S Eisenhower dollar prototype is headed to a public auction on October 18, 2026, by GreatCollections. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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GreatCollections will auction a rare 1971-S Eisenhower dollar prototype on October 18, 2026. Only three examples of this Judd-2147 coin are known to exist.

Why it matters

The coin represents a rare survivor of U.S. Mint experimental trials that were originally ordered for destruction. It provides collectors with a tangible look at the development process of the Eisenhower dollar series.

The prototype features 40% silver and 60% copper, measuring 38.1 mm in diameter and weighing 24.59 grams. Only three such examples have surfaced, with this specific coin holding a PCGS Specimen-67 grade and CAC Green approval.

The players

GreatCollections

This is a prominent numismatic auction house that manages the sale of rare coins and currency.

Lee Lydston

He is the collector credited with the 2008 discovery of this rare prototype coin.

Philadelphia Mint

This is a historic U.S. Mint production facility where the experimental coin strikes took place.

The details

Researchers identified the prototype by comparing its unique lunar crater details to original 1970 models. The piece utilizes experimental dies intended to test machinery capabilities during early production development at the Philadelphia Mint.

December 31, 1970: President Nixon signed legislation authorizing the dollar coin.
January 25, 1971: The Mint held a public demonstration of experimental coin strikes.
February 2008: Collector Lee Lydston discovered the prototype.
January 2022: Heritage Auctions sold the specimen for $264,000.
October 18, 2026: GreatCollections will auction the prototype.

Roadmap

The emergence of these prototypes marks a significant chapter in the history of U.S. coinage production and the rigorous testing phases required for new series. This auction showcases the persistent interest in early production trial strikes that were intended to be destroyed.

For dedicated numismatists, this auction represents a rare opportunity to acquire a piece of Mint history. Potential bidders should prepare for significant competition given the scarcity of the Judd-2147 prototype.

The takeaway

This auction serves as a reminder that even mass-produced currency series undergo extensive, often overlooked development trials. Collectors are advised to verify provenance carefully when dealing with experimental coins attributed to the U.S. Mint.