Step into a world of wonder and history as we explore the captivating realm of dollar coins. Dollar coins have an intriguing allure that transcends time. These quintessential gold and silver coins embody the rich cultural heritage and intricate history of the United States, holding stories of triumphs, transitions, and turning points. From the early days of the nation to modern times, dollar coins have been not just a medium of exchange but also a canvas for art and a vessel for stories.
In this blog, we'll delve into the alluring world of rare and valuable US dollar coins that could be the crowning jewels of your collection. Join us on this treasure hunt through the annals of American numismatics and discover some rare dollar coins worth large sums of money.
The Stars of Silver: Morgan Dollars
Morgan Silver Dollars, minted between 1878 and 1921, are some of the most sought-after dollar coins. With their captivating design featuring Lady Liberty on the obverse and a heraldic eagle on the reverse, they are not just coins but artifacts of American history.
The 1893-S Morgan Dollar is particularly prized. With a mintage of only 100,000, finding one in good condition can command prices upwards of $300,000!
The Enigmatic Peace Dollar
Minted to commemorate the end of World War I, the Peace Dollar is another sterling example of artistry. The series was minted from 1921 to 1935 and features a stunning depiction of Lady Liberty wearing a radiant crown and symbolizing the hope for a peaceful world. One of the rarest coins worth money in this series is the 1928 Peace Dollar, with a relatively low mintage. A well-preserved piece could fetch you around $10,000.
Glimpses of Gold: The Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle
When you think of dollar coins worth money, gold comes to mind, and the Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle is the epitome of this category. Bearing the name of its creator, Augustus Saint-Gaudens, these coins were minted between 1907 to 1933.
The 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle dollar coin is notably rare — believed to have only 13 specimens in existence, one of these precious coins sold for an astonishing $18.9 million in 2021!
Modern Marvels: The Sacagawea and Presidential Dollars
In the world of coin collecting, it's not always the oldest coins that fetch the highest prices. Take for instance the modern dollar coins from the Sacagawea Dollars and the Presidential Dollar series. Some Sacagawea Dollars are known to have been struck on the wrong planchets, creating an off-metal transitional error and making them worth thousands. Similarly, certain Presidential Dollar coins with missing edge lettering or other errors can be worth a lot of money.
Draped Bust: The Silver Screen of Numismatics
The Draped Bust Dollar coins, minted between 1795 and 1804, are some of the earliest and most storied US dollar coins worth money. Among these coins, the most famous one is the 1804 Draped Bust Dollar, which is often referred to as the “King of American Coins.” With only 15 examples known to exist, these coins are incredibly valuable. In 2017, an 1804 Draped Bust Dollar sold for $3.3 million!
Eisenhower Dollars: Hidden Gems
Though not all were made of silver, some Eisenhower Dollars are surprisingly valuable. Struck between 1971 and 1978, these coins generally don’t have much value above face value. However, certain rare varieties of this dollar coin can fetch handsome amounts, especially in pristine condition.
The 1972 Type 2 Eisenhower Dollar coin is one such rarity, and in mint condition, it can be worth a significant amount of money — up to $800. Additionally, the 1976 Bicentennial Eisenhower Dollar with a "Type 1" reverse, characterized by bold, blocky lettering, is a collector's favorite and can sell for $100 or more in uncirculated condition.
Trade Dollars: Traders of Fortune
Travel back in time to the late 1800s and you'll discover a world where Trade Dollars reigned supreme. Trade Dollars, minted between 1873 and 1885, were initially created for trade with Asia. These beautiful coins have a unique design with Lady Liberty seated on the obverse, and an eagle on the reverse. Among them, the 1884 and 1885 Trade Dollar coins are exceptionally rare, with only ten and five known to exist, respectively.
In fact, in 2006, one 1884 Trade Dollar was auctioned for a staggering $3.3 million! But even more common dates of these dollar coins can be worth a lot of money, especially in higher grades. For instance, an 1873 Trade Dollar in mint state can fetch upwards of $2,000.
Chart Your Coin Collecting Course with L&C Coins
A journey through the US dollar coins worth large sums of money unveils an intricate symphony of history, art, and economics. These pieces are more than just currency; they’re a testament to the craftsmanship, vision, and zeitgeist of their times. In every coin lies a story, and in every story, a treasure to be cherished.
At we invite you to continue your rare dollar coin journey by exploring our diverse selection of remarkable coins. Take a look at our new arrivals and weekly specials and enjoy free shipping on every standard order. With a legacy spanning over 50 years, L&C Coins’ expertise and dedication ensure that both novices and veterans can confidently add priceless gems to their collections.
