The value of an 1851 silver dollar coin can vary greatly depending on its condition (grade), whether it is an original strike or a restrike, and other factors.
Here’s a breakdown:
- Original 1851 Seated Liberty Dollar:
– Rarity: Only 1,300 original 1851 silver dollars were minted in Philadelphia, making them exceptionally rare today. Fewer than 100 are estimated to exist in all grades.
– Value:
– In circulated condition, an 1851 Seated Liberty Dollar is valued between $35,000 and $40,000.
– In pristine, uncirculated condition, they can sell for as much as $150,000.
– Prices can range from approximately $7,500 for a Very Good-8 grade to $35,000 for an uncirculated example.
- 1851 Silver Dollar Restrikes:
– Existence: Due to the rarity of the original 1851 silver dollars, restrikes were created later by the Mint.
– Identifying Restrikes: The key difference is the placement of the date on the obverse (front) of the coin. Original strikes have the date placed higher than usual, while restrikes have a centered date.
– Value:
– Restrikes, particularly in proof condition, can be quite valuable, selling for around $25,000 and up.
- Identifying Fakes/Trinkets:
– Beware of coins labeled as “1851 Indian Head Silver Dollar”.
– Important: No genuine US dollar coins with the Indian Head design were minted in 1851.
– These are considered fantasy pieces or counterfeits, often made of base metal and not silver.
– Authentic US silver dollars from that period feature the Seated Liberty design.
Additional factors impacting value:
- Condition/Grade: The higher the grade (better condition), the more valuable the coin.
- Mint Mark: While 1851 Philadelphia Mint coins are rare, there’s also an 1851-O (New Orleans) variety which is considered a key date and can also be very valuable in good condition, [according to one eBay listing] . However, PCGS indicates no circulated strikes were made at the New Orleans mint that year.
- Proof Status: Proof coins, particularly original proofs, tend to be more valuable than business strike coins.
To get a precise valuation for your 1851 silver dollar, it is highly recommended to:
- Consult a reputable coin dealer or numismatic expert: They can properly identify and grade your coin, providing a more accurate valuation.
- Refer to professional grading service resources: Organizations like NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Corporation) and PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service) provide detailed information and pricing guides.
How do I tell if my silver dollar is worth money?
From my experience, The Date. The date is important but not the only factor. …
Mintmark Location. Where the coin was minted can make or break the value. …
Errors and Varieties. …
Grade & Condition.
How to tell if a $1 coin is rare?
To ensure your coin is rare, check for minting errors, such as double strikes or planchet flaws, unique designs, or limited editions. The 2007 Sacagawea Dollar, with Edge Lettering, accidentally featuring a Presidential coin’s edge design, is exceptionally valuable due to its rarity, with only one known to exist.
How to tell if a coin is a Morgan silver dollar?
Beneath the eagle is a laurel wreath with a bow. On the left loop of the bow, Morgan again placed his signature, “M.” Mint marks, when present, are located below the wreath. With the design complete, history records that on March 11, 1878, the Morgan silver dollar first went into production at the Philadelphia Mint.
Which silver dollar is the rarest?
Thanks for asking. 1885 proof Trade Dollars are one of the rarest and most sought after coins when collecting since there are only five known to exist. These coins rarely come up for auction or sale. It is believed that the next time one comes up for sale, it will be worth more than any before.