Today, we refer to one dollar bills as “greenbacks,” but historically, they were coins, not notes. Some of these coins are now highly prized by collectors.
In this article, we’ll explore the most valuable one-dollar coin ever sold at auction, along with other noteworthy examples that have fetched substantial sums.
So, if you’re ready, step into the world of precious coins…
Most Valuable One Dollar Coin
1. 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar, PCGS MS66
The 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar is one of the most renowned coins in the world. It was the first year silver dollars were minted, and it is believed that this particular coin might have been the very first one struck.
Graded by the prestigious Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS), this coin holds a grade of MS66, indicating it’s in “mint state” (never circulated) and has a near-perfect quality rating. In 2013, it set a record when it sold for $10 million to businessman Bruce Morelan, who made a high bid to ensure he secured the coin. Seven years later, it was privately sold for $12 million in 2022.
2. 1870 S Seated Liberty Dollar, PCGS MS62
The 1870 S Seated Liberty Dollar is highly sought after by collectors. While numerous coins from this year exist in lower grades, this particular one is the finest known example, graded MS62 by the PCGS. In 2003, it fetched $1,092,500, and its current value is estimated at $2.5 million, although its final auction price could exceed expectations.
3. 1796 P Draped Bust Dollar, Small Date, Small Letters (Regular Strike), MS65
The 1796 Draped Bust Dollar comes in three variations, with the small date and small letters version being the most common. However, a coin in excellent condition is extremely rare. A specimen of mint state 65 was sold at auction in 2020 for $705,000, significantly more than a circulated version that had sold for $46,000 in 2003.
4. 1803 Draped Bust Dollar, PCGS PR66
The 1803 Draped Bust Dollar is a rare proof coin, and there are only four known examples. This particular coin, graded PR66, was sold at auction in 2013 for $852,000. Proof coins, made for record-keeping and later for collectors, are of higher quality than mint state coins.
5. 1804 Draped Bust Dollar, Class I, PCGS PR68
The 1804 Draped Bust Dollar, Class I, is one of only eight known examples, originally part of a set intended for the Sultan of Muscat. It was auctioned in 2021 for an astounding $7.68 million, making it one of the highest-selling one-dollar coins in history.
6. 1795 Off-Center Bust Dollar, PCGS MS66 CAC
This 1795 dollar, with a misaligned die, is known as the “off-center bust dollar.” Graded MS66, it’s one of the finest examples of this error coin. In 2020, it sold for $705,000.
7. 1798 Wide Date Dollar, PCGS MS65 CAC
The 1798 Wide Date Dollar is a highly regarded coin. This specimen, graded MS65 by the PCGS and certified by the CAC, sold for $270,250 in 2020, exceeding its original estimate of $200,000 to $250,000.
8. 1804 Draped Bust Dollar Restrike – Class III, PCGS PR58
This Class III 1804 Draped Bust Dollar, one of only six in existence, was graded PR58. Auctioned in 2009, it fetched $2.3 million. These coins, produced in secret years after the original coins, were made to imitate the aging process of earlier strikes.
9. 1893 S Morgan Silver Dollar, PCGS MS67 CAC
The 1893 S Morgan Silver Dollar is a rare coin, especially in high grades. Only 100,000 were minted due to an economic downturn, and most were melted down later. This one, the finest known, sold for $2.1 million in 2021.
10. 1964-D Peace Dollar
The 1964-D Peace Dollar is one of the most mysterious coins. Only rumors of its existence have circulated, as it was part of a production attempt in 1965 but was quickly halted. If one were ever found, its value would be immeasurable, and a $10,000 reward is offered by the PCGS for locating an authentic example.
11. 1976 Eisenhower Dollar No S, Type II, Silver, PCGS PR66 CAM
The 1976 Eisenhower Dollar without an “S” mintmark is the rarest modern U.S. coin. Produced in Philadelphia as a trial strike, this unique coin, graded PR66 and known as a cameo, is valued at approximately $850,000.
Conclusion
We’ve now explored some of the rarest and most valuable one-dollar coins in history. If you happen to possess a silver dollar from 1964, it could be worth far more than you expect! Get it appraised, and you might just make coin collecting history.
FAQ
What makes the 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar so valuable?
The 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar is believed to be one of the first silver dollars minted, and its exceptional quality (graded MS66) makes it highly desirable to collectors. It fetched a record-breaking $10 million at auction in 2013.
Why is the 1870 S Seated Liberty Dollar so sought after?
This coin is one of the finest surviving examples of the 1870 S Seated Liberty Dollar, with a grade of MS62. Its rarity and historical significance contribute to its high value, with a current estimated worth of around $2.5 million.
What is a “Proof” coin?
A “Proof” coin is a specially made coin intended for collectors, often with higher quality than typical circulation coins. These coins are struck multiple times to create a detailed, mirror-like finish, making them much rarer and more valuable.
What is the significance of the 1964-D Peace Dollar?
The 1964-D Peace Dollar is famous for being controversial, as it is unclear whether it even exists due to the cancellation of its production. If one were to surface, its value would be astronomical, making it one of the most mysterious coins in American history.