The 2018-P World War I Army Veterans Centennial Silver Dollar is a special coin that honors the bravery of American soldiers during World War I. Released by the United States Mint, this commemorative silver dollar marks the 100th anniversary of the end of the war. For coin collectors and history lovers alike, this coin is an important and meaningful addition to any collection. In this article, we will dive into the history, design, and value of this unique coin.
Historical Context of the 2018-P World War I Silver Dollar
The Importance of World War I
World War I began in 1914, but the United States didn’t join the war until April 6, 1917. By then, the conflict had already been raging for three years in Europe. President Woodrow Wilson tried to keep America out of the war, but events like German submarine attacks on American ships and the Zimmermann Telegram, which suggested an alliance between Germany and Mexico, made it impossible for the U.S. to stay neutral.
By 1918, American soldiers were fighting on the Western Front in Europe. More than 4.7 million American men and women served in World War I, and over 116,000 of them lost their lives. The war officially ended on November 11, 1918, marking the beginning of a century of remembrance for those who served and sacrificed.
Legislative Authorization and Mintage
How the Coin Came to Be
In 2014, the U.S. Congress passed a law allowing the minting of a special silver dollar to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the end of World War I. The law set a limit on how many of these silver dollars could be made—only 350,000 coins were allowed to be minted. The actual number of coins produced, however, was much lower than that.
Here’s a breakdown of the mintage numbers and prices for both versions of the 2018-P silver dollar:
| Finish Type | Mintage | Initial Price | Regular Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Uncirculated | 22,340 | $48.95 | $53.95 |
| Proof | 127,848 | $51.95 | $56.95 |
Both versions of the coin were made at the Philadelphia Mint, and they each have the “P” mintmark.
Design Details of the Coin
Obverse Design: “Soldier’s Charge”
The front (obverse) of the coin features an American soldier holding a rifle, symbolizing the determination of U.S. soldiers during World War I. The soldier is shown facing forward with barbed wire in the lower right corner. The inscriptions on the obverse include “LIBERTY,” “1918,” “2018,” and “IN GOD WE TRUST.” The design was created by artist LeRoy Transfield and sculpted by Don Everhart.
Reverse Design: “Poppies in the Wire”
The back (reverse) of the coin shows poppy flowers, which are symbols of remembrance for fallen soldiers, growing around barbed wire. This powerful image represents both the cost of war and the hope of peace. The reverse includes the inscriptions “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” “ONE DOLLAR,” and “E PLURIBUS UNUM.” Like the obverse, this design was also created by Transfield and Everhart.
Coin Specifications
Here are the specifications for the 2018-P World War I Centennial Silver Dollar:
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Composition | 90% Silver, 10% Copper |
| Weight | 26.73 grams |
| Diameter | 38.1 mm (1.5 inches) |
| Edge | Reeded |
The silver content makes this coin highly valued for both its historical significance and its precious metal composition.
Market Performance and Value
Current Market Value
As of November 2024, the 2018-P World War I Centennial Silver Dollar has seen a modest increase in value. Uncirculated coins typically sell for around $60, while Proof versions range from $50 to $60. Coins that have been graded MS70 (Mint State 70) or PF70 (Proof 70) by top grading services like NGC or PCGS may be worth more. However, even these high-grade coins have seen a slight drop in market value recently, with prices averaging between $55 and $70.
Collecting Considerations
Tips for Collecting the Coin
For collectors, the 2018-P World War I Centennial Silver Dollar is a great choice because it combines historical importance with numismatic value. When looking to buy one, it’s important to consider the coin’s condition. Uncirculated coins or Proof coins in excellent condition are more valuable than those with wear or damage.
Certification is another key factor. Coins that are graded by professional services like NGC or PCGS are often worth more, as they provide proof of authenticity and quality. Additionally, the coin’s provenance, or its ownership history, can also affect its value.
Conclusion
The 2018-P World War I Army Veterans Centennial Silver Dollar is more than just a coin—it’s a meaningful tribute to the American soldiers who fought and died during World War I. With its thoughtful design and connection to such an important moment in history, this coin has become a valuable item for collectors. Whether you’re a coin enthusiast or someone who wants to honor the bravery of the past, the 2018-P World War I Silver Dollar is a coin worth considering.
FAQ’s
What is the 2018-P World War I Army Veterans Centennial Silver Dollar?
It is a commemorative silver coin released by the U.S. Mint in 2018 to honor American soldiers who fought in World War I, marking the 100th anniversary of the war’s end.
How much is the 2018-P World War I Centennial Silver Dollar worth?
The coin’s value typically ranges from $50 to $60, with higher-grade versions (like MS70 or PF70) selling for more, but the market value has slightly declined in recent years.
What is the design of the 2018-P World War I Centennial Silver Dollar?
The obverse shows a soldier with a rifle, while the reverse features poppies intertwined with barbed wire, symbolizing remembrance.