Price Guide for 1866 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: $9.00 – $2,760.00Uncirculated: $518.00 – $150,000.00
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eBayCirculated: $195.00 – $2,250.00Uncirculated: $1,239.22 – $7,500.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $300.00 – $3,250.00Uncirculated: $3,500.00 – $250,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $690.00 – $3,300.00Uncirculated: $7.00 – $37,500.00
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eBayCirculated: $1,855.55Uncirculated: $2,025.00 – $4,716.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $1,050.00 – $2,150.00Uncirculated: $2,550.00 – $85,000.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $1,207,500.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $1,500,000.00 – $2,250,000.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $2,013.00 – $96,000.00
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eBayUncirculated: $8,125.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $2,850.00 – $185,000.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $4,888.00 – $86,250.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $3,250.00 – $115,000.00
Design and Specifications of the 1866 Dollar
The 1866 Seated Liberty Dollar represents a significant year in American numismatic history. It was the first year that the motto ‘In God We Trust’ appeared on the silver dollar, reflecting the nation’s increased religious sentiment following the Civil War. This addition was part of a broader movement to recognize divine providence on American coinage.
The Seated Liberty design, featuring Lady Liberty seated on a rock, had been in use since 1840 and would continue until 1873. The 1866 dollar thus represents an important transitional year in the series, combining the classic design with the new national motto.
| 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 1866 Seated Liberty Dollar significantly impacts its value and desirability. Due to its low mintage and age, finding high-grade examples is extremely challenging. Coins in Mint State (MS) condition are exceptionally rare and command substantial premiums.
Key factors affecting value include:
1. Strike quality: Well-struck coins with full details are highly prized.
2. Luster: Original mint luster is crucial for top-grade examples.
3. Surface preservation: Minimal contact marks or abrasions increase desirability.
4. Toning: Natural, attractive toning can enhance appeal and value.
Even small differences in grade can result in substantial price variations, particularly in the higher Mint State grades.
Mintage: 48,000
Rarity Scale: Rare
Circulation Status: Limited Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Extremely rare in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: None widely recognized
Market Demand: High, particularly for well-preserved specimens
Historical significance plays a crucial role in the value of the 1866 Seated Liberty Dollar. As the first year of the ‘In God We Trust’ motto on the dollar, it holds special appeal for collectors of type sets and series specialists.
The low mintage of only 48,000 coins contributes significantly to its rarity and value. This scarcity is compounded by the fact that many examples were likely melted or lost over time.
Provenance can also impact value. Coins with a documented history of ownership by notable collectors or appearance in famous auctions may command a premium.
Lastly, as with many 19th-century silver dollars, the 1866 issue is popular with both coin collectors and historians interested in post-Civil War American economics, adding to its overall demand and value in the numismatic market.
