They were more sizable and heavier specimens than most coins produced in the US Mint. Pieces made of precious metal are only one of two coin types containing 40% silver in the entire American coinage history. You can recognize two types of these coins, those made of silver-clad and copper/nickel clad. New Eisenhower (Ike) dollars appeared in circulation in 1971, and the US Mint produced them until 1978. History of the 1972 Eisenhower (Ike) Silver Dollar Even though these heavy sizable coins are not particularly valuable and popular nowadays, some collectors prize them. Ike dollars never circulated widely throughout the US, and their primary use was in casinos along the west coast. Another option is the so-called Brown Ikes, a proof set provided in brown boxes. One is Blue Ikes, coins from regular strikes in a blue envelope. Even though both contain 40% silver, there are two versions with different purposes. The 1972 silver dollar value depends on the coin type you want to buy.
