Design

Anthony de Francisci’s design featured his rendition of Lady Liberty on the obverse. His wife, Teresa, was the model for the sculpture. The font used is an example of the then-popular Art Deco style. This is exemplified by the inscription, “IN GOD WE TRVST,” which uses the Latin angular “U”.

The original design for the coin’s reverse featured a Bald Eagle holding (or standing on) a broken sword, symbolizing peace. This design was interpreted as one of defeat, rather than peace, so Chief Engraver Morgan altered the design to replace the sword with an olive branch (itself a symbol of peace). The eagle is perched on a rock, facing a group of the sun’s rays.

The design of the Peace Dollar drew considerable criticism upon its release. A few of the elements of de Francisci’s design that drew negative commentary were the open-mouthed Lady Liberty and the Latinized spelling of “trust.” The negative response was sufficient enough that the US Mint issued a statement on February 9, 1922, stating that the coin would not be withdrawn. In recent years, however, coin collectors have come to view the Peace Dollar as an attractive and desirable coin.

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