Price Guide for 1851 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: $127.00 – $70,500.00Uncirculated: $150.00 – $76,375.00
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eBayCirculated: $7.50 – $1,500.00Uncirculated: $163.55 – $831.20
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $14,000.00 – $50,000.00Uncirculated: $55,000.00 – $300,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $14,400.00 – $22,425.00Uncirculated: $98.00 – $75,000.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $20,000.00 – $115,000.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $17,625.00 – $149,500.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $26,000.00 – $105,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $30,000.00Uncirculated: $31,050.00 – $38,525.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $27,500.00 – $65,000.00
Design and Specifications of the 1851 Dollar
The 1851 Seated Liberty Dollar was minted during a significant period in American history. This year saw the height of the California Gold Rush, which had a profound impact on the nation’s economy and coinage. The influx of gold led to a rise in the price of silver, causing many silver coins, including dollars, to be melted down for their bullion value.
The Seated Liberty design, introduced in 1836, continued to be used on the dollar coin in 1851, reflecting the classical artistic preferences of the era.
| Weight | 26.73 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 38.1 mm |
| Mint Marks | O (New Orleans), No mint mark (Philadelphia) |
| Composition | 90% silver, 10% copper |
| Obverse Design | Seated Liberty design, featuring Liberty seated on a rock, holding a liberty pole with a Phrygian cap, designed by Christian Gobrecht |
| Reverse Design | Heraldic eagle with shield, olive branch, and arrows, designed by Christian Gobrecht |
Rarity Factors and Value Drivers
The condition of an 1851 Seated Liberty Dollar significantly impacts its value. Due to the coin’s size and the fact that many were used in commerce, finding high-grade specimens can be challenging. Uncirculated examples are particularly valuable, with MS65 and above being extremely rare.
Key factors affecting condition include:
1. Strike quality: Well-struck coins with full details are more desirable.
2. Luster: Original mint luster greatly enhances value.
3. Surface marks: Fewer contact marks or scratches increase desirability.
4. Toning: Natural, attractive toning can add to the coin’s appeal and value.
Mintage: 1,026,500
Rarity Scale: Scarce
Circulation Status: Limited Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Rare in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: High, especially for well-preserved specimens
Mintage: 400,000
Rarity Scale: Scarce
Circulation Status: Limited Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Very rare in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: High, particularly for high-grade examples
Historical significance plays a role in the 1851 Seated Liberty Dollar’s value. Its association with the California Gold Rush era adds to its appeal among collectors and historians.
The relative scarcity of the New Orleans mint coins compared to Philadelphia issues can impact value, with O-mint coins often commanding a premium.
Provenance can also affect value. Coins with a documented history of ownership by notable collectors or inclusion in famous collections may be more valuable.
Lastly, the overall eye appeal of the coin, combining factors like strike, luster, and toning, can significantly influence its desirability and value in the numismatic market.
