Price Guide for 1865 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: $11.00 – $5,750.00Uncirculated: $1,495.00 – $57,500.00
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eBayCirculated: $225.50 – $4,750.00Uncirculated: $35.00 – $2,300.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $500.00 – $6,000.00Uncirculated: $6,500.00 – $80,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $863.00 – $3,575.00Uncirculated: $6.40 – $102,812.50
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eBayUncirculated: $2,326.00 – $4,701.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $1,550.00 – $3,000.00Uncirculated: $3,500.00 – $75,000.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $1,610.00 – $45,600.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $4,000.00 – $107,500.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $5,875.00 – $38,775.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $7,000.00 – $67,500.00
Design and Specifications of the 1865 Dollar
The 1865 Seated Liberty Dollar was minted during a pivotal year in American history, marking the end of the Civil War. This coin represents a significant period of transition for the nation, as it began to rebuild and reunify after years of conflict.
The Seated Liberty design, which had been in use since 1840, continued to symbolize the ideals of liberty and freedom that were especially poignant in the post-war era. These coins were primarily used in international trade rather than domestic circulation, as paper money was more commonly used for everyday transactions during this time.
| Weight | 26.73 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 38.1 mm |
| Mint Marks | S (San Francisco), P (Philadelphia, no mint mark) |
| Composition | 90% silver, 10% copper |
| Obverse Design | Seated Liberty design, designed by Christian Gobrecht |
| Reverse Design | Heraldic eagle with shield, designed by Robert Scot |
Rarity Factors and Value Drivers
The condition of 1865 Seated Liberty Dollars significantly impacts their value. Due to their limited mintage and age, high-grade examples are extremely scarce. Coins in Mint State conditions, particularly MS65 and above, command substantial premiums.
The strike quality can vary, with well-struck examples being more desirable. Original luster is highly prized, as many surviving specimens have been cleaned over the years. Natural toning, especially if attractive and colorful, can enhance the coin’s appeal and value to collectors.
Mintage: 46,500
Rarity Scale: Rare
Circulation Status: Limited Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Extremely rare in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: High, due to historical significance and low mintage
Mintage: 47,000
Rarity Scale: Rare
Circulation Status: Limited Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Extremely rare in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: High, due to historical significance and low mintage
The historical context of the 1865 Seated Liberty Dollar adds to its numismatic appeal. As a coin minted at the end of the Civil War, it holds special interest for collectors of American history.
The low mintage numbers for both Philadelphia and San Francisco issues make this a key date in the Seated Liberty Dollar series. Provenance can play a role in value, with coins from well-known collections often commanding a premium.
As with many 19th-century silver dollars, authenticity is crucial. Due to their rarity and value, 1865 dollars have been targets for counterfeiters, making professional authentication important for high-value specimens.
