Price Guide for 1846 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 PriceCirculated: $20.00 – $6,500.00Uncirculated: $3.40 – $105,750.00
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eBayCirculated: $260.00 – $1,800.00Uncirculated: $1,250.00 – $2,800.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $250.00 – $2,100.00Uncirculated: $2,250.00 – $110,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $4.00 – $9,500.00Uncirculated: $1,380.00 – $70,501.18
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eBayCirculated: $115.50 – $3,750.00Uncirculated: $2,568.08
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $250.00 – $6,500.00Uncirculated: $7,500.00 – $125,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $4,113.00 – $8,500.00Uncirculated: $85.00 – $149,500.00
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eBayUncirculated: $721.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $9,750.00 – $12,500.00Uncirculated: $14,250.00 – $165,000.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $40,250.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $37,500.00 – $65,000.00
Design and Specifications of the 1846 Dollar
The 1846 Seated Liberty Dollar was part of the long-running Seated Liberty series, which began in 1840 and continued until 1873. This coin represents a significant period in American numismatic history, as it was minted during the era of westward expansion and just before the California Gold Rush.
The Seated Liberty design, featuring Lady Liberty seated on a rock, was a departure from earlier designs and symbolized the growing nation’s stability and strength. The 1846 dollar was minted during a time when silver dollars were primarily used in international trade rather than domestic circulation.
Weight | 26.73 grams |
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Diameter | 38.1 mm |
Mint Marks | Philadelphia (no mint mark), New Orleans (O) |
Composition | 90% silver, 10% copper |
Obverse Design | Seated Liberty design, designed by Christian Gobrecht |
Reverse Design | Heraldic eagle with shield, designed by Christian Gobrecht |
Rarity Factors and Value Drivers
The condition of 1846 Seated Liberty Dollars significantly impacts their value. Due to their age and limited survival rate, high-grade examples are particularly valuable. Coins in Uncirculated condition (MS60 and above) are extremely rare and highly sought after by collectors.
For circulated examples, even small differences in grade can result in substantial price differences. Coins with original luster and minimal contact marks command premium prices. The presence of attractive, natural toning can also enhance the value, especially for the New Orleans mint coins.
Mintage: 110,600
Rarity Scale: Scarce
Circulation Status: Limited Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Rare in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: None of particular significance
Market Demand: High, especially for well-preserved specimens
Mintage: 59,000
Rarity Scale: Rare
Circulation Status: Limited Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Very rare in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: None of particular significance
Market Demand: High, particularly for high-grade examples
Several factors can influence the value of 1846 Seated Liberty Dollars beyond their condition:
1. Mint mark: The New Orleans (O) mint coins are generally more valuable due to their lower mintage.
2. Strike quality: Well-struck examples with full details, especially on Liberty’s head and the eagle’s feathers, are more desirable.
3. Die state: Late die state examples showing interesting characteristics can appeal to specialized collectors.
4. Provenance: Coins with a documented history of ownership by notable collectors can command a premium.
5. Originality: Coins with original surfaces, free from cleaning or other alterations, are highly prized by collectors and often command significant premiums.