It’s important to clarify that the United States Mint did not issue dollar coins featuring George Washington during his actual presidency (1789-1797). The first US dollar coins, beginning in 1794, featured the goddess Liberty, [according to Quora].
If you possess a George Washington $1 coin with the dates 1789-1797, you likely have a coin from the Presidential Dollar Coin program , which began in 2007. These dates signify Washington’s years in office, not the minting date of the coin itself.
Here’s a breakdown of the value for such a coin:
- Face Value: Most George Washington Presidential Dollar coins are worth their face value, which is $1.
- Uncirculated Condition: If the coin is uncirculated and in pristine condition (still in its protective case), it might be worth slightly more than face value, perhaps around $2-$4.
- Missing Edge Lettering (Error Coin): Some 2007 George Washington dollar coins were minted without the inscription “E Pluribus Unum” and “In God We Trust” on the edge due to a minting error. These error coins are more desirable to collectors and can range in value from $50 to several hundred dollars, depending on their condition.
- High-Grade Examples: George Washington dollar coins in top condition (like Mint State-68) can be worth even more, potentially fetching thousands of dollars.
- Check the Edge Lettering: Examine the edge of your coin for the date and mint mark, as well as the inscriptions. This will help determine if you have an error coin.
- Assess the Condition: Coins in better condition generally command higher prices. Look for signs of wear and tear, scratches, or other damage.
- Consult a Coin Expert: If you believe you have a rare or valuable George Washington dollar coin, consult with a professional coin grader or numismatist for a more accurate assessment of its value.
If you find a coin with a date from Washington’s actual presidency, such as a 1794 or 1797 dollar coin featuring Liberty on the obverse, it could be extremely valuable. For instance, a perfect 1794 dollar coin recently sold for $6 million. A 1797 Liberty Coin in circulated condition is worth between $1600 and $34500, while uncirculated examples can sell for as much as $480000.
Is the George Washington $1 coin rare?
Good point! While the George Washington Dollar is not considered particularly rare due to its modern mintage, certain rare presidential dollar coins and error varieties can command significant premiums. Basic uncirculated specimens, however, remain readily available and affordable for beginning collectors.
What is the error on the George Washington coin?
I can help with that. This coin features an error where the motto is upside down, making it a unique and collectible piece for numismatists. Composed of 88.5% Copper, 6% Zinc, 3.5% Manganese, and 2% Nickel, this $1 coin carries the standard design of George Washington on the obverse and the Statue of Liberty on the reverse.
Are the $1 president 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.