The value of a John Adams one-dollar coin (from the Presidential Dollar series issued starting in 2007) can vary depending on its condition and whether it has any errors.
- Most John Adams dollar coins you find in circulation are worth their face value, or $1. This is because over 200 million of them were minted in 2007.
- Even in uncirculated or proof condition, the value is typically not significantly higher than face value unless there’s a minting error.
- A perfectly uncirculated coin (graded MS-65) might be worth around $10.
- Higher graded uncirculated coins (like MS-66) could fetch around $12.
- Proof coins (with a special mirrored finish) in good condition could be worth $10 – $20.
- Some John Adams dollar coins have minting errors that make them more valuable to collectors.
- “Missing Edge Lettering” (or “Godless Dollars”): These coins were struck without the mottos “In God We Trust” and “E Pluribus Unum” on the edge. An MS-64 specimen of this error sold for over $3,000.
- “Doubled Edge Lettering”: Some coins went through the edge-incusing machine twice, resulting in doubled lettering on the edge. In some cases, the second set of letters can be inverted. An MS63 John Adams dollar with doubled edge lettering overlap recently sold for $34.95.
- Strike Through Errors: Coins with strike-through errors (where an object came between the die and the planchet during striking) can also be valuable, depending on the severity of the error. A strike-through error coin recently sold for $400 on eBay.
Note: The dates 1797-1801 on the John Adams dollar coin refer to the years he served as President, not the year the coin was minted. The actual mint year (typically 2007) is inscribed on the edge of the coin along with the mint mark and mottos.