The Statue of Liberty has been a symbol of freedom and democracy for over a century, and this iconic monument has been featured on numerous coins throughout American history. If you’re wondering how much is the Statue of Liberty coin worth, the answer isn’t straightforward – values can range from around $20 for common commemorative pieces to thousands of dollars for rare, high-grade specimens. Understanding the factors that influence these values is crucial for collectors, investors, and anyone who has inherited or discovered these historic pieces.
Understanding Statue of Liberty Coins
The term “Statue of Liberty coin” encompasses several different types of currency that feature Lady Liberty or the actual Statue of Liberty monument. These coins span different eras of American numismatics and include both commemorative issues specifically created to honor the statue and regular circulation coins that featured various depictions of Liberty.
Types of Statue of Liberty Coins
When determining how much is the Statue of Liberty coin worth, it’s essential to first identify which specific coin you possess. The most common categories include:
1986 Statue of Liberty Commemorative Series
The most well-known Statue of Liberty coins were issued in 1986 to commemorate the centennial of the statue’s dedication. This series included:
- Silver Dollar (90% silver, 10% copper)
- Half Dollar (copper-nickel clad)
- Gold Half Eagle ($5 gold coin)
Walking Liberty Half Dollar (1916-1947)
These coins feature Adolph Weinman’s famous design of Lady Liberty walking toward the dawn, carrying laurel branches and an American flag.
Standing Liberty Quarter (1916-1930)
Another classic design featuring Liberty holding a shield and olive branch.
Modern Liberty Coins
Various modern commemorative and bullion coins featuring Liberty themes, including American Silver Eagles and other special issues.
Key Factors Affecting Value
Several critical factors determine how much is the Statue of Liberty coin worth in today’s market:
Coin Type and Series
The specific type of coin significantly impacts its value. The 1986 commemorative series, for example, has different value ranges depending on whether you have the silver dollar, half dollar, or gold piece. The gold half eagle naturally commands higher prices due to its precious metal content, while the copper-nickel half dollar typically has the lowest values in the series.
Condition and Grade
Coin condition is perhaps the most crucial factor in determining value. Professional grading services like PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service) and NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Corporation) use a 70-point scale to assess coin condition:
- MS-70 (Perfect Mint State): No visible flaws under 5x magnification
- MS-69 (Near Perfect): Minimal contact marks or flaws
- MS-65 (Gem Uncirculated): Minor contact marks but strong eye appeal
- MS-60 (Uncirculated): No wear but may have significant contact marks
- AU-58 to AU-50 (About Uncirculated): Slight wear on high points
- XF-45 to XF-40 (Extremely Fine): Light wear on high points
- VF-30 to VF-20 (Very Fine): Moderate wear but all major details visible
Higher grades command significantly higher premiums, with perfect MS-70 specimens often worth several times more than lower-grade examples.
Mintage Numbers and Rarity
Lower mintage numbers typically correlate with higher values. The 1986 Statue of Liberty commemoratives had the following mintages:
- Silver Dollar: Approximately 723,635 uncirculated and 6,414,638 proof versions
- Half Dollar: About 928,008 uncirculated and 6,925,627 proof versions
- Gold Half Eagle: Roughly 95,248 uncirculated and 404,013 proof versions
The gold half eagle, with its much lower mintage, generally commands higher prices relative to its precious metal content.
Precious Metal Content
For coins containing silver or gold, the melt value establishes a price floor. The 1986 Statue of Liberty Silver Dollar contains approximately 0.7734 troy ounces of silver. When silver prices are high, even common examples maintain value based on their metal content alone.
Current precious metal prices directly impact values:
- Silver content coins fluctuate with silver spot prices
- Gold content coins move with gold market prices
- Base metal coins rely primarily on numismatic value
Market Demand and Collector Interest
Collector demand varies based on several factors:
- Historical significance
- Design appeal
- Pop culture references
- Anniversary years
- Economic conditions affecting collectibles markets
Current Market Values
Understanding how much is the Statue of Liberty coin worth requires examining current market conditions and recent sales data:
1986 Statue of Liberty Silver Dollar Values
Uncirculated Examples:
- MS-65: $25-$35
- MS-67: $35-$50
- MS-69: $50-$75
- MS-70: $100-$200+
Proof Examples:
- PR-65: $20-$30
- PR-67: $30-$40
- PR-69: $40-$60
- PR-70: $75-$150+
1986 Statue of Liberty Half Dollar Values
Uncirculated Examples:
- MS-65: $8-$12
- MS-67: $12-$18
- MS-69: $18-$25
- MS-70: $40-$75
Proof Examples:
- PR-65: $6-$10
- PR-67: $10-$15
- PR-69: $15-$20
- PR-70: $25-$50
1986 Statue of Liberty Gold Half Eagle Values
Uncirculated Examples:
- MS-65: $450-$500
- MS-67: $500-$600
- MS-69: $600-$750
- MS-70: $1,000-$1,500+
Proof Examples:
- PR-65: $400-$450
- PR-67: $450-$550
- PR-69: $550-$650
- PR-70: $800-$1,200+
Historical Liberty Coins
Walking Liberty Half Dollar (1916-1947)
These classic coins featuring Adolph Weinman’s iconic design vary widely in value:
Common Dates (1940s):
- Good condition: $15-$20
- Very Fine: $20-$25
- Extremely Fine: $25-$35
- Uncirculated: $40-$75+
Key Dates (1916-D, 1921-D, etc.):
- Values can range from hundreds to thousands of dollars depending on condition
Standing Liberty Quarter (1916-1930)
Type 1 (1916-1917):
- 1916: $3,000-$15,000+ depending on condition
- 1917: $50-$300+ depending on condition
Type 2 (1917-1930):
- Common dates: $25-$100+ depending on condition
- Key dates: $200-$2,000+ depending on condition
Where to Buy and Sell
When considering how much is the Statue of Liberty coin worth, knowing where to buy and sell is crucial:
Reputable Sources for Purchasing
- Authorized coin dealers
- Coin shows and conventions
- Established online platforms (Heritage Auctions, eBay with verified sellers)
- Direct from the U.S. Mint (for new releases)
Selling Your Coins
- Professional coin dealers
- Auction houses (for valuable pieces)
- Online marketplaces (with proper research)
- Coin shows (direct to collectors)
Getting Professional Appraisals
To accurately determine how much is the Statue of Liberty coin worth, consider professional services:
Professional Grading Services
PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service)
- Industry leader in coin authentication and grading
- Provides population reports showing rarity by grade
- Offers price guides and market analysis
NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Corporation)
- Another top-tier grading service
- Comprehensive certification and encapsulation
- Detailed variety attribution
Local Appraisal Options
- Certified coin appraisers
- Numismatic professionals
- Coin shop owners (for preliminary assessments)
- Coin club members (for informal opinions)
Investment Considerations
When evaluating how much is the Statue of Liberty coin worth as an investment:
Factors Supporting Value Growth
- Limited mintages for commemorative issues
- Historical significance maintaining collector interest
- Precious metal content providing intrinsic value
- American patriotic themes appealing to broad collector base
Risk Factors
- Market volatility in collectibles
- Condition sensitivity affecting values dramatically
- Authentication concerns with valuable pieces
- Liquidity considerations for quick sales
Care and Storage
Proper storage affects long-term value:
Best Practices
- Use appropriate holders (coin flips, capsules, or slabs)
- Control environment (stable temperature and humidity)
- Avoid cleaning (can damage surfaces and reduce value)
- Handle minimally (use cotton gloves when necessary)
- Document provenance (maintain purchase records and certificates)
Conclusion
The question of how much is the Statue of Liberty coin worth depends on numerous factors including coin type, condition, rarity, and market conditions. Values range from around $20 for common commemorative pieces in average condition to thousands of dollars for rare, high-grade specimens or key date historical coins.
Whether you’re a collector, investor, or someone who has inherited these coins, understanding these value factors helps make informed decisions. For accurate valuations of specific pieces, consulting with qualified numismatic professionals remains the best approach. The enduring appeal of Lady Liberty ensures these coins will continue to hold significance for collectors and Americans alike, making them both historically important and potentially valuable investments.
Remember that coin values fluctuate with market conditions, precious metal prices, and collector demand. Regular research and professional guidance help navigate this dynamic market successfully.
How much is a 1 dollar coin worth with the Statue of Liberty?
Great question! In fact, in some years the coins were only sold directly to collectors and dealers by The U.S. Mint. Despite their perhaps seemingly elusive nature, the vast majority of these coins are extremely common and still only worth their face value of one dollar.
How rare is the Statue of Liberty coin?
I can help with that. Statue of Liberty Silver Dollars are a very low mintage coin with just 723,635 ever produced. Just think, this piece is about 30 times as rare as a 1921 Morgan Silver Dollar, which is worth $50+ in brilliant uncirculated condition. This piece was designed by John Mercanti and was made to commemorate Ellis Island.
How much is a 1986 Statue of Liberty gold coin worth?
1986 Statue of Liberty – American Gold Commemorative $5 – $1,160.