Price Guide for 1855 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.
-
3rd Party PriceCirculated: $8.20 – $14,400.00Uncirculated: $22.50 – $149,500.00
-
eBayCirculated: $26.03 – $6,082.78Uncirculated: $228.02 – $1,560.00
-
PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $750.00 – $15,500.00Uncirculated: $16,000.00 – $225,000.00
-
3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $115.00 – $69,000.00
-
PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $10,000.00 – $70,000.00
-
3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $12,337.50 – $96,937.50
-
PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $15,000.00 – $115,000.00
Design and Specifications of the 1855 Dollar
The 1855 Seated Liberty Dollar was part of the long-running Seated Liberty series, which began in 1840 and continued until 1873. This coin was minted during a significant period in American history, just a few years before the Civil War. The Seated Liberty design, featuring Lady Liberty seated on a rock, was widely used across multiple denominations and became an iconic representation of American coinage in the mid-19th century.
| Weight | 26.73 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 38.1 mm |
| Mint Marks | Philadelphia (no mint mark), New Orleans (O) |
| Composition | 90% silver, 10% copper |
| Obverse Design | Seated Liberty, designed by Christian Gobrecht |
| Reverse Design | Heraldic eagle, designed by Christian Gobrecht |
Rarity Factors and Value Drivers
The condition of an 1855 Seated Liberty Dollar significantly impacts its value. Due to the low mintage and age of these coins, finding specimens in high grades is extremely challenging. Coins in Uncirculated condition (MS60 and above) are particularly valuable and sought after by collectors.
The strike quality can vary, with some coins showing weakness in certain areas, particularly on the eagle’s wings and talons. Strong strikes with full detail command a premium. Original luster is highly prized, and coins with attractive, natural toning can see increased demand and value among collectors.
Mintage: 26,000
Rarity Scale: Rare
Circulation Status: Limited Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Extremely rare in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: High, especially for well-preserved specimens
Mintage: 40,000
Rarity Scale: Rare
Circulation Status: Limited Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Extremely rare in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: High, especially for well-preserved specimens
Several factors contribute to the value of the 1855 Seated Liberty Dollar:
1. Rarity: With low mintages from both Philadelphia and New Orleans, these coins are inherently scarce.
2. Historical significance: Being minted in the pre-Civil War era adds to their appeal.
3. Mint mark: The New Orleans (O) mint mark is slightly rarer and often commands a small premium.
4. Preservation: Well-preserved examples with minimal contact marks or wear are highly desirable.
5. Die state: Late die state examples showing signs of die deterioration can be of interest to specialists.
Collectors should be cautious of counterfeit coins, as the rarity and value of 1855 dollars make them a target for forgery. Authentication by a reputable grading service is recommended for high-value specimens.
