The worth of a 1971-dated coin of a specific denomination, struck from a non-precious metal and bearing a “D” mint mark, is primarily determined by its condition and demand among collectors. The “D” signifies that the coin was produced at the Denver Mint. The overwhelming majority of these coins were struck in a clad metal composition and intended for circulation.
The historical context surrounding the coin’s production reveals a period of transition in United States coinage. The rising price of silver led to its removal from circulating coinage in 1965, with clad compositions becoming the norm. This era’s coins, like the one described, serve as a reminder of this shift. Their value often resides in numismatic interest rather than intrinsic metal content, appealing to individuals interested in completing sets or preserving pieces of history.
