Price Guide for 1804 Dollar Variants
This guide presents price ranges for variants from three sources: eBay sales, third-party auctions, and PCGS guides. Values are shown for various conditions, allowing collectors to compare across different market segments. Price estimates may vary between sources, especially for rarer variants.
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $4,250.00 – $7,680,000.00
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eBayCirculated: $226.06 – $850.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $2,000,000.00 – $2,500,000.00Uncirculated: $3,250,000.00 – $8,750,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $198,000.00 – $2,300,000.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $1,800,000.00 – $2,450,000.00Uncirculated: $2,750,000.00 – $3,250,000.00
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eBayCirculated: $365.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $10,000,000.00
Design and Specifications of the 1804 Dollar
The 1804 Silver Dollar is known as the ‘King of American Coins’ and is one of the most famous and valuable coins in numismatics. Surprisingly, no silver dollars were actually minted in 1804. These coins were struck in the 1830s for diplomatic gift sets and later for collectors, using the 1804 date to represent the last year of the previous dollar coin issuance.
Only 15 examples are known to exist, divided into three classes based on their production period and characteristics. This coin’s rarity and intriguing history make it a legendary piece in American numismatics.
| Weight | 26.96 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 39-40 mm |
| Mint Marks | None (Philadelphia Mint) |
| Composition | 89.24% silver, 10.76% copper |
| Obverse Design | Draped Bust of Liberty facing right, designed by Robert Scot |
| Reverse Design | Heraldic Eagle with shield, designed by Robert Scot |
Rarity Factors and Value Drivers
The condition of 1804 Dollars is crucial to their value, although all known specimens are in relatively high grades due to their proof status and careful preservation over time. Even small differences in condition can result in millions of dollars in value variation.
Authenticity is paramount, as the extreme rarity and value of these coins have led to the creation of many forgeries. Expert authentication is essential for any potential 1804 Dollar.
Mintage: 15 known examples
Rarity Scale: Extremely Rare
Circulation Status: Not Intended for Circulation
Preservation Rarity: All known specimens are in high grades due to their proof status and careful preservation
Varieties Errors: Three classes: Class I (8 examples), Class II (unique), and Class III (6 examples)
Market Demand: Extremely High, considered the ultimate trophy coin for serious collectors
Provenance plays a significant role in the value of 1804 Dollars. Coins with a well-documented history of ownership, especially those that can be traced back to their original recipients or early collectors, can command substantial premiums.
The class of the coin (I, II, or III) also impacts its value, with Class I specimens generally being the most valuable, followed by the unique Class II, and then Class III examples.
Historical significance and the coin’s status as the ‘King of American Coins’ contribute greatly to its value, making it one of the most sought-after coins by serious collectors and museums alike.
