Price Guide for 1803 Dollar Variants
This guide presents price ranges for 1803 Dollar 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.
1803 Dollar Small 3 (Regular Strike)
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $15.75 - $43,125.00Uncirculated: $265.00 - $117,500.00
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eBayCirculated: $545.00 - $7,256.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $1,000.00 - $35,000.00Uncirculated: $40,000.00 - $225,000.00
1803 Dollar (Proof)
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $1,800.00Uncirculated: $210.00 - $851,875.00
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eBayCirculated: $465.00 - $2,450.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $250,000.00 - $1,100,000.00
1803 Dollar Large 3 (Regular Strike)
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $7.75 - $43,125.00Uncirculated: $16,675.00 - $705,000.00
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eBayCirculated: $139.97 - $8,600.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $900.00 - $35,000.00Uncirculated: $45,000.00 - $700,000.00
1803 Dollar Small 3, BB-251 (Regular Strike)
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $900.00 - $9,000.00
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eBayCirculated: $1,301.90 - $2,180.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $1,750.00 - $32,500.00
1803 Dollar Small 3, BB-252 (Regular Strike)
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $587.50 - $10,500.00Uncirculated: $46,000.00 - $58,750.00
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eBayCirculated: $900.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $1,250.00 - $35,000.00Uncirculated: $40,000.00 - $200,000.00
1803 Dollar Small 3, BB-253 (Regular Strike)
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $834.00
1803 Dollar Small 3, BB-254 (Regular Strike)
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $1,440.00 - $22,325.00Uncirculated: $14,400.00 - $141,000.00
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eBayUncirculated: $18,500.00 - $23,700.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $1,250.00 - $35,000.00Uncirculated: $40,000.00 - $200,000.00
1803 Dollar Small 3, BB-256 (Regular Strike)
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $1,680.00 - $27,600.00Uncirculated: $150.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $2,750.00 - $40,000.00
1803 Dollar Large 3, BB-255 (Regular Strike)
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $423.00 - $24,000.00Uncirculated: $28,800.00 - $528,750.00
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eBayCirculated: $1,066.00 - $20,000.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $900.00 - $35,000.00Uncirculated: $45,000.00 - $700,000.00
Design and Specifications of the 1803 Dollar
The 1803 Draped Bust Silver Dollar is a significant early American coin. It represents one of the final years of regular silver dollar production before a long hiatus. These dollars were essential for international trade and helped establish the United States as a economic player on the world stage.
The Draped Bust design, introduced in 1795, was nearing the end of its run, making the 1803 dollar a transitional piece in American numismatic history. Its production coincided with the Louisiana Purchase, adding to its historical significance.
| Weight | 26.96 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 39-40 mm |
| Mint Marks | None (all minted in Philadelphia) |
| Composition | 89.24% silver, 10.76% copper |
| Obverse Design | Draped Bust design, featuring a portrait of Liberty, designed by Robert Scot |
| Reverse Design | Heraldic Eagle design, featuring an eagle with a shield, designed by Robert Scot |
Rarity Factors and Value Drivers
The condition of an 1803 Silver Dollar dramatically impacts its value. Due to their age and circulation, most surviving specimens show significant wear. Coins in Very Fine to Extremely Fine condition are highly sought after, while those in About Uncirculated or Mint State are extremely rare and valuable.
The quality of the strike is crucial, as many 1803 dollars were weakly struck. Well-struck examples with full details command significant premiums. Original luster, when present, greatly enhances value. Natural toning can also add to the coin's appeal and value, especially if it's attractive and even.
Mintage: 85,634
Rarity Scale: Rare
Circulation Status: Limited Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Extremely rare in grades above XF, with only a handful known in Mint State
Varieties Errors: Small 3 and Large 3 varieties in date, Extra Reverse Stars variety
Market Demand: High, due to historical significance and rarity
Variety identification is crucial for 1803 dollars. The Small 3 and Large 3 varieties in the date can affect value, with the Large 3 being scarcer. The Extra Reverse Stars variety is particularly rare and valuable.
The absence of major damage like cleaning, scratches, or rim dings is essential for higher values. Provenance can also play a role; coins with a documented history of ownership by notable collectors can command premium prices.
Lastly, the historical significance of the 1803 dollar, minted in the year of the Louisiana Purchase, adds to its overall appeal and value among collectors and historians alike.
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