You are likely referring to the John Adams Presidential Dollar coin, released in 2007 as part of the Presidential $1 Coin Program . The dates 1797-1801 on the coin refer to the years John Adams served as the 2nd President of the United States, not the year the coin was minted.
In general, most John Adams Presidential Dollar coins are worth their face value ($1). However, certain factors can increase their value for collectors:
- Missing Edge Lettering: Some 2007 John Adams dollar coins were mistakenly struck without the required edge inscriptions (including “E PLURIBUS UNUM”, “IN GOD WE TRUST”, the mint mark, and the year). These “error coins”, particularly in high grades, can fetch significant premiums. For example, a 2007 John Adams Dollar with missing edge lettering, graded MS 62, sold for $141,000 at auction in 2015.
- Doubled Edge Lettering: Another known error for the John Adams dollar is when the edge lettering was applied twice. Depending on whether the doubled lettering is overlapped or inverted, these coins can also be valuable to collectors.
- Proof Coins: Proof versions of the John Adams dollar, minted in San Francisco, were intended for collectors and have a mirror-like finish. These can also be more valuable than circulating coins, with a PF70 specimen selling for $127 at auction.
- Uncirculated Condition: Even without errors, John Adams dollars in pristine, uncirculated condition can be worth more than face value, particularly those in high grades like MS60-MS64. For example, uncirculated Philadelphia-minted John Adams dollars in MS60-MS64 can fetch between $3 and $18, while a high-grade example (MS64) has sold for $2,300.
To accurately determine the value of your John Adams Presidential Dollar, it is recommended to:
- Examine the edge: Check for the presence and clarity of the edge inscriptions.
- Assess the condition: If possible, have your coin professionally graded to determine its condition on the Sheldon Coin Grading Scale (1-70).
- Consult a coin specialist or use a coin ID scanner app: These resources can help identify any errors and provide an estimated value.
In summary, while most John Adams dollar coins are worth their face value, look for errors like missing or doubled edge lettering, and for proof or uncirculated coins, as these can be significantly more valuable.
Where is the mint mark on a John Adams dollar?
Thanks for asking. John Adams Dollar Coins
The traditional inscriptions “E Pluribus Unum,” the date of issuance and the mint mark have been moved to the edge of the coin, making it unique among circulating coins.
Are any of the $1 presidential coins worth anything?
The most expensive Presidential Dollar coin is the 2009 SMS William Henry Harrison with missing edge lettering, graded 69/70, which can sell for up to $2,450. The least expensive among the top valuable coins is the 2007 SMS Jefferson dollar with missing edge lettering, graded 67, valued at $600.