The Peace dollar which was designed by medalist Anthony de Francisci, was first introduced in December of 1921 to commemorate the peace treaties between the Allied forces and Germany and Austria (end of the World War I). In 1922 the Mint made silver dollar production its top priority, causing other denominations to be produced sparingly if at all that year. Production ceased temporarily after 1928; original plans apparently called for only a one year suspension, but this was extended by the Great Depression. Mintage was resumed in 1934, but for only two years.