Price Guide for 1864 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: $173.00 – $14,000.00Uncirculated: $20.00 – $80,500.00
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eBayCirculated: $336.00 – $4,000.00Uncirculated: $35.00 – $4,000.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $500.00 – $8,000.00Uncirculated: $8,500.00 – $135,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $863.00 – $3,220.00Uncirculated: $6.20 – $52,875.00
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eBayUncirculated: $1,959.90 – $10,550.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $1,500.00 – $3,000.00Uncirculated: $3,500.00 – $125,000.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $3,220.00 – $49,937.50
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $4,000.00 – $62,500.00
Design and Specifications of the 1864 Dollar
The 1864 Seated Liberty Dollar was minted during the height of the American Civil War. This coin represents a crucial period in American history, as the nation was deeply divided and the economy was under significant strain. The Seated Liberty design, which had been in use since 1840, continued to symbolize the enduring ideals of liberty and unity despite the ongoing conflict.
| Weight | 26.73 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 38.1 mm |
| Mint Marks | S (San Francisco) |
| Composition | 90% silver, 10% copper |
| Obverse Design | Seated Liberty, designed by Christian Gobrecht |
| Reverse Design | Eagle with shield, designed by Christian Gobrecht |
Rarity Factors and Value Drivers
The condition of an 1864 Seated Liberty Dollar significantly impacts its value. Due to its low mintage and age, finding high-grade specimens is extremely challenging. Coins in Uncirculated condition (MS60 or better) 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 claws. Strong strikes with full detail command a premium. Original luster is highly prized, and attractive, natural toning can significantly enhance the coin’s appeal and value.
Mintage: 30,000
Rarity Scale: Rare
Circulation Status: Limited Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Extremely rare in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: None widely recognized
Market Demand: High, especially for well-preserved specimens
The historical context of the Civil War adds considerable interest and value to this coin. Collectors often seek 1864 dollars as representatives of this tumultuous period in American history.
The low mintage of only 30,000 pieces makes this a key date in the Seated Liberty Dollar series. Survival rates are estimated to be quite low, with many coins lost to melting or wear, further enhancing the rarity and value of surviving specimens.
Provenance can play a role in value, with coins from famous collections or with a documented history of ownership potentially commanding a premium. Additionally, CAC (Certified Acceptance Corporation) approval can significantly increase the value of certified coins, as it indicates superior quality for the assigned grade.
