What is the value of a 1972 U.S. Silver Dollar?

Answer 1

Not silver, copper-nickel.

Please see the Related Question for more information. Circulating dollars dated 1972 are not silver. Look at the edge - it's made of the same copper/nickel "sandwich" metal used in dimes, quarters, and halves. They're worth anywhere from face value to $1.10

However, if it has an "S" mintmark and is mint-sealed in Mylar with a blue envelope, it is an uncirculated 40% silver coin worth about $6. If it is a proof coin sealed in a hard plastic case and packaged in a brown box (also with an "S" mintmark) it lists at $6.50.

Answer 2

Your coin is called an Eisenhower dollar. It was issued in two different metals:

- If it shows the same copper edge as modern dimes and quarters, it's not silver, it's cupronickel and is only worth face value.

- If it is lighter in color and has an "S" mint mark above the date, it's made of 40% silver-clad metal. Depending on condition, as of 02/2015 it's worth about $9 retail.