Price Guide for 1863 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: $115.00 – $9,000.00Uncirculated: $22.50 – $114,000.00
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eBayCirculated: $26.52 – $3,700.00Uncirculated: $152.50 – $2,250.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $800.00 – $6,500.00Uncirculated: $7,500.00 – $200,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $834.00 – $3,850.00Uncirculated: $6.00 – $184,000.00
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eBayUncirculated: $690.99 – $4,500.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $1,800.00 – $3,000.00Uncirculated: $3,500.00 – $75,000.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $3,278.00 – $129,250.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $4,000.00 – $165,000.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $7,000.00 – $15,600.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $7,000.00 – $20,000.00
Design and Specifications of the 1863 Dollar
The 1863 Seated Liberty Dollar was minted during the height of the American Civil War. This coin represents a significant period in American history, as the nation was deeply divided and the outcome of the war was uncertain. The Seated Liberty design, which had been in use since 1840, continued to symbolize the enduring ideals of liberty and union despite the ongoing conflict.
| Weight | 26.73 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 38.1 mm |
| Mint Marks | Philadelphia (no mint mark), San Francisco (S) |
| Composition | 90% silver, 10% copper |
| Obverse Design | Seated Liberty design, designed by Christian Gobrecht |
| Reverse Design | Eagle with shield, designed by Christian Gobrecht |
Rarity Factors and Value Drivers
The condition of 1863 Seated Liberty Dollars significantly impacts their value. Due to their low mintage and age, high-grade specimens are extremely rare and highly sought after by collectors. Coins in Mint State (MS) condition, particularly MS65 and above, command substantial premiums.
Factors such as strike quality, luster, and the presence or absence of contact marks play crucial roles in determining the coin’s grade and value. Well-struck coins with full, frosty luster and minimal bag marks or scratches are especially desirable.
Mintage: 27,200
Rarity Scale: Rare
Circulation Status: Limited Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Extremely rare in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: High, particularly for well-preserved specimens
Mintage: 61,000
Rarity Scale: Scarce
Circulation Status: Limited Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Very rare in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: High, especially for high-grade examples
The historical context of the Civil War adds significant appeal to the 1863 Seated Liberty Dollar. Collectors often seek these coins as tangible connections to this pivotal period in American history.
Original toning can enhance the value, particularly if it’s attractive and natural. Coins with deep, multicolored toning are often more valuable than those with no toning or artificial color.
Provenance can also play a role in value. Coins with a documented history of ownership, especially if linked to notable collections or historical figures, may command a premium.
