When considering the value of a John Adams coin with the dates 1797-1801, it’s important to understand these dates refer to his years in office, not the minting date of the coin itself.
- Standard (circulated) condition: Generally worth their face value of $1.00.
- Uncirculated condition: May fetch slightly more than face value, particularly in higher grades. For example, a 2007-P John Adams dollar in MS63 (Uncirculated) condition is listed at $2.50, and an MS64 at $5.
- Error coins: These are the most valuable and include:
– Missing edge lettering (“Godless dollars”): These are very rare and can sell for thousands of dollars.
– Doubled edge lettering: Some coins have the edge inscriptions doubled or even inverted.
– Off-center strikes: These can be valuable, with one example described as being worth around $299.99.
– Other errors: Various other errors can occur, such as a “matte” edge caused by laser etching or planchet errors.
- Proof coins: Minted with a special process for collectors, these may be worth around $10-$20 in excellent condition, but can be harder to find individually since they’re often sold in sets.
- The years 1797 and 1801 also fall within the period of “Early Dollars”, which were minted between 1794 and 1804.
- These are much older and potentially significantly more valuable due to their age and historical significance.
- According to the NGC Price Guide, as of August 2025, a Liberty Coin from 1797 in circulated condition is worth between $1600 and $34500.
- In pristine, uncirculated condition, 1797 Silver Dollars can sell for as much as $480000.
Important notes:
- Be cautious of coins advertised as “John Adams Dollar Coin 1797-1801” on marketplaces like eBay with high price tags (e.g., $1600 – $1800). These often refer to the presidential dollar coin series and not an actual coin minted during Adams’ presidency.
- The actual mint date for the Presidential dollar coins is found on the coin’s edge.
- For the most accurate assessment of a specific coin’s value, especially for rare or error coins, it is best to consult a professional coin grader or numismatist.
Is the John Adams coin rare?
From my experience, Although the John Adams Presidential dollar was minted for general circulation, it has earned significant interest from collectors. Like other Presidential dollar values, circulated coins are generally worth their face value, but uncirculated examples in higher grades can sell for a premium.