The Grant Memorial Gold Dollar is a special coin made by the United States Mint in 1922. This coin honors Ulysses S. Grant, the 18th president of the United States. In this guide, we will explore the history, design, and value of this unique coin.
Introduction to the Grant Memorial Gold Dollar
The Grant commemorative coins were created because of a request from the Ulysses S. Grant Centenary Memorial Association. They wanted to use the money from these coins to build community buildings in Georgetown and Bethel, Ohio, in memory of Grant. They also aimed to create a five-mile road connecting New Richmond to Point Pleasant, Ohio, where Grant was born.
How the Coins Were Sold
The association took care of selling the coins. They bought them directly from the Mint at face value and then sold them through banks in Ohio. Besides the coins, they also made a bronze medal that people could buy for 25 cents.
Coin Formats
The Grant Gold Dollar was sold in two versions:
| Version | Description |
|---|---|
| Plain Version | Standard version without any special features. |
| With Star | A version that has a small star on it. |
The success of earlier commemorative coins in Alabama and Missouri led to the decision to create two varieties of the Grant dollar. Both versions sold out quickly, often purchased by wholesalers, which frustrated collectors at the time.
Who Was Ulysses S. Grant?
Early Life and Military Career
Ulysses Simpson Grant had a challenging start in life. Born in Point Pleasant, Ohio, on April 27, 1822, he graduated from West Point Military Academy. He served in the Mexican War but didn’t achieve much fame. After resigning from the Army in 1854, Grant tried different businesses, all of which failed.
When the Civil War began in 1861, Grant returned to military service as a colonel. He quickly became known for his leadership during important battles along the Tennessee and Cumberland rivers, catching the attention of President Abraham Lincoln.
Grant as President
After the Civil War, Grant became president in 1868. Although he was a great military leader, his presidency faced many scandals. However, recent historians have started to view him more positively. Grant retired after two terms and died at home in 1885, becoming a legendary figure in American history.
The Design of the Grant Memorial Gold Dollar
Unlike many other commemorative coins that faced changes before production, the Grant Memorial Gold Dollar was produced with little trouble. The design was created by Laura Gardin Fraser, who was known for her beautiful coin designs.
Coin Specifications
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Year of Issue | 1922 |
| Denomination | One Dollar (USD) |
| Mintmark | None (Philadelphia) |
| Total Mintage | Star: 5,016; No Star: 5,000 |
| Weight | 1.7 grams |
| Diameter | 14.3 mm |
| Edge | Reeded |
Value of the Grant Memorial Gold Dollar
These coins are rare, making them valuable for collectors. Most of them are in excellent condition, partly because many were bought by dealers at low prices. Here’s an overview of their value:
| Condition | Estimated Value |
|---|---|
| Choice Uncirculated | About $1,000 |
| With Star | 20% premium on value |
| MS65 | About $1,500-$2,000 |
| MS67 | $25,000-$30,000 at auction |
Counterfeits to Watch Out For
Unfortunately, there are fake versions of these coins. Most counterfeits are of poor quality. Genuine coins are valuable and often the target of counterfeiters.
Conclusion
The 1922 Grant Memorial Gold Dollar is not just a coin; it’s a piece of history that tells the story of Ulysses S. Grant, a key figure in American history. Whether you are a collector or just curious, understanding the significance of this coin can deepen your appreciation for the past. The coin’s design, historical context, and value make it a fascinating topic to explore. Collecting such coins can be rewarding, both for their historical value and their potential financial worth.
FAQ’s
What is the 1922 Grant Memorial Gold Dollar?
The 1922 Grant Memorial Gold Dollar is a commemorative coin issued to honor Ulysses S. Grant, the 18th President of the United States and a Civil War general. It features a bust of Grant on the obverse and a depiction of Grant’s tomb on the reverse.
What is the composition of the 1922 Grant Memorial Gold Dollar?
The 1922 Grant Memorial Gold Dollar is composed of 90% gold and 10% copper, weighing approximately 26.73 grams with a diameter of 33 mm.
How many 1922 Grant Memorial Gold Dollars were minted?
A total of 1,000,000 pieces were authorized for minting, but only about 300,000 were actually produced. This limited mintage adds to its collectible value.