The American Silver Eagle, a 1 oz bullion coin, is generally considered the thickest U.S. coin in regular production, with a thickness of 2.98 mm. Among circulating coins, the Eisenhower Dollar, at 2.5 mm, was the thickest.
Thickest u s coin
The **thickest U.S. coin in modern production is generally the American Silver Eagle**, which measures 2.98 mm in thickness.
This 1 oz bullion coin, first minted in 1986, is produced by the United States Mint and is widely recognized for its substantial size and weight, making it a popular choice for collectors and investors alike. While it is legal tender, it is not typically used in everyday transactions. Its thickness contributes to its durability and distinct feel compared to other U.S. coinage, as detailed by the U.S. Mint.
For coins that were once in general circulation, the **Eisenhower Dollar**, produced from 1971 to 1978, holds the record as the thickest U.S. coin at 2.5 mm. Although it had a larger diameter (38.1 mm) than most contemporary coins, its thickness made it quite substantial in hand. The introduction of the Eisenhower Dollar was a significant event in U.S. coinage history, representing the first dollar coin struck for circulation since 1935, as noted by sources like Wikipedia. Its size and weight were often cited as reasons for its limited acceptance in commerce, paving the way for smaller dollar coins like the Susan B. Anthony and Sacagawea dollars.
Other notable thick U.S. coins include the American Gold Eagle and American Platinum Eagle bullion coins, which also feature considerable thickness due to their precious metal content. For instance, the 1 oz American Gold Eagle measures 2.87 mm thick, and the 1 oz American Platinum Eagle is 2.54 mm thick. These coins are primarily valued for their metal content and are typically acquired through authorized dealers rather than found in everyday change, as outlined by the CoinNews.net publication.
