The value of an 1865 dollar coin can vary significantly depending on several factors, primarily its type, condition or grade, and certification.
- Seated Liberty Dollar (Silver): Minted in Philadelphia, this coin is made of 90% silver and 10% copper. Its value, as of August 2025, ranges from $575 to $4,250 in circulated condition. Uncirculated (Mint State) coins can sell for as much as $77,500. Proof versions of the Seated Liberty Dollar from 1865 can have a value range from $2,000 to $120,000.
- Gold Dollar: This coin was also minted in Philadelphia and is made of 90% gold. It has a much lower mintage than the silver dollar (3,725 pieces) and is considered rare, especially in uncirculated condition. Its value, as of August 2025, ranges from $375 to $1,800 in circulated condition, and uncirculated coins can sell for as much as $90,000.
- Condition/Grade: The better the condition of the coin, the higher its value. Coin grading uses a scale of 1 to 70, with higher numbers indicating better condition. A coin graded as “Poor 1” would be heavily worn, while an “MS 70” (Mint State 70) would be perfectly struck and uncirculated. You can use resources like the Official ANA Grading Standards for United States Coins to learn more about grading.
- Rarity: Coins with a limited mintage or that have a low survival rate often command higher prices. In 1865, the final year of the Civil War, most of the silver dollars are believed to have been exported to Central and South America. This has contributed to their scarcity in circulated grades today, [according to PCGS].
- Demand: Market interest in certain coins can fluctuate, affecting how much buyers are willing to pay. For example, Seated Liberty Dollars are popular with collectors, driving their value.
- Mint Mark: Different mints produced varying numbers of coins, and mint marks can add historical significance and affect value. The 1865 dollar coin was minted in Philadelphia.
- Special Designations: Coins with special designations, like “Deep Cameo” for proof coins or “Full Head” for certain issues, can further enhance their value.
Note: It’s important to note that professional coin grading services, such as PCGS or NGC, can provide an accurate assessment of a coin’s condition and authenticity, which significantly impacts its market value. You can consult reputable dealers or appraisers for professional evaluation and insights into the current market value.
How much is a dollar in 1865 worth today?
$1 in 1865 is equivalent in purchasing power to about $19.72 today, an increase of $18.72 over 160 years. The dollar had an average inflation rate of 1.88% per year between 1865 and today, producing a cumulative price increase of 1,872.18%.
How to tell if a $1 coin is valuable?
I can help with that. U.S. dollar coins worth money are hard to identify at a glance. Their value lies in where they were minted, their historical significance, mintage, precious metal content, whether they are error coins, and their condition.
Is Abraham Lincoln’s $1 coin rare?
Great question! The Mint released the majority of these coins into circulation. Today, you would be lucky to come across a 2010 Abraham Lincoln coin in mint condition; it’s not impossible, but these coins are rare. That said, like most presidential dollar coins, the Abraham Lincoln dollar is low-value.
How much is a 1861 to 1865 Lincoln dollar coin worth?
From my experience, The reverse has a lovely view of the Statue of Liberty and ‘United States of America’ as well as’ $1′. The coin was minted at different mints and today, a fair market resale value is between 5 and 20 usd in auction, on Ebay.