Price Guide for 1846 Dollar Variants
This guide presents price ranges for 1846 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.
1846 Dollar (Regular Strike)
-
3rd Party PriceCirculated: $20.00 - $6,500.00Uncirculated: $3.40 - $105,750.00
-
eBayCirculated: $260.00 - $1,800.00Uncirculated: $1,250.00 - $2,800.00
-
PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $250.00 - $2,100.00Uncirculated: $2,250.00 - $110,000.00
1846-O Dollar (Regular Strike)
-
3rd Party PriceCirculated: $4.00 - $9,500.00Uncirculated: $1,380.00 - $70,501.18
-
eBayCirculated: $115.50 - $3,750.00Uncirculated: $2,568.08
-
PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $250.00 - $6,500.00Uncirculated: $7,500.00 - $125,000.00
1846 Dollar (Proof)
-
3rd Party PriceCirculated: $4,113.00 - $8,500.00Uncirculated: $85.00 - $149,500.00
-
eBayUncirculated: $721.00
-
PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $9,750.00 - $12,500.00Uncirculated: $14,250.00 - $165,000.00
1846 Dollar, CAM (Proof)
-
3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $40,250.00
-
PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $37,500.00 - $65,000.00
Design and Specifications of the 1846 Dollar
The 1846 Seated Liberty Dollar was part of the long-running Seated Liberty series, which began in 1840 and continued until 1873. This coin represents a significant period in American numismatic history, as it was minted during the era of westward expansion and just before the California Gold Rush.
The Seated Liberty design, featuring Lady Liberty seated on a rock, was a departure from earlier designs and symbolized the growing nation's stability and strength. The 1846 dollar was minted during a time when silver dollars were primarily used in international trade rather than domestic circulation.
| Weight | 26.73 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 38.1 mm |
| Mint Marks | Philadelphia (no mint mark), New Orleans (O) |
| Composition | 90% silver, 10% copper |
| Obverse Design | Seated Liberty design, designed by Christian Gobrecht |
| Reverse Design | Heraldic eagle with shield, designed by Christian Gobrecht |
Rarity Factors and Value Drivers
The condition of 1846 Seated Liberty Dollars significantly impacts their value. Due to their age and limited survival rate, high-grade examples are particularly valuable. Coins in Uncirculated condition (MS60 and above) are extremely rare and highly sought after by collectors.
For circulated examples, even small differences in grade can result in substantial price differences. Coins with original luster and minimal contact marks command premium prices. The presence of attractive, natural toning can also enhance the value, especially for the New Orleans mint coins.
Mintage: 110,600
Rarity Scale: Scarce
Circulation Status: Limited Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Rare in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: None of particular significance
Market Demand: High, especially for well-preserved specimens
Mintage: 59,000
Rarity Scale: Rare
Circulation Status: Limited Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Very rare in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: None of particular significance
Market Demand: High, particularly for high-grade examples
Several factors can influence the value of 1846 Seated Liberty Dollars beyond their condition:
1. Mint mark: The New Orleans (O) mint coins are generally more valuable due to their lower mintage.
2. Strike quality: Well-struck examples with full details, especially on Liberty's head and the eagle's feathers, are more desirable.
3. Die state: Late die state examples showing interesting characteristics can appeal to specialized collectors.
4. Provenance: Coins with a documented history of ownership by notable collectors can command a premium.
5. Originality: Coins with original surfaces, free from cleaning or other alterations, are highly prized by collectors and often command significant premiums.
Helpful Resources
Explore these valuable resources to enhance your coin collecting knowledge
Coin Value Checker
Free US coin value lookup with real-world market prices
Coin Analysis Tool
Identify, value, grade, and authenticate your coins instantly
Auction Records Tool
Access comprehensive US coin auction data
Quarter & Penny Value Guides
Find detailed value guides for both modern and classic quarters and pennies
2024 Quarter Values
Mint Marks, Proofs & Rare Prices
2022 Quarter Value Guide
Mint Marks, Proofs & Rare Prices
2023 Quarter Values
Complete Value Guide & Price Chart
Post-2000 Quarter Values
50 Most Valuable Modern Quarters
Post-1965 Quarter Values
50 Most Valuable Quarters Guide
60s & 70s Penny Values
Top 50 Most Valuable Finds
Error Coin Guides
Discover comprehensive guides about rare minting errors and valuable mistakes
2024 Quarter Error Guide
In Cod We Trust, Doubled Dies & Values
2023 Quarter Error Guide
Die Breaks, Cuds, and Rare Minting Errors
2022 Quarter Error Analysis
Die Breaks, Cuds & Clash Marks
2021 P&D Quarter Errors
Crown Die Chip, Crossing Delaware Errors
Bessie Coleman Quarter Errors
IN COD WE TRUST, Die Chip Values
Bicentennial Quarter Errors
Wrong Planchet, Off-Center & Die Cracks
Essential Coin Collecting Guides
Access comprehensive resources for identifying, grading, and selling your coins
Coin Designation Guide
Comprehensive Guide To Grading, Errors, Mint Marks, And Certification Terms
Selling Coins Guide
The Ultimate Guide to Selling Coins: Maximizing Your Returns
Key Date U.S. Coins
A Chronological Checklist for Collectors
Coin Value Guide
Expert Methods to Identify, Grade, and Sell Your Numismatic Treasures
U.S. Mint Marks Guide
Complete History of American Coin Mint Marks (1793-Present)
Coin Condition & Grading
Ultimate Guide: Sheldon Scale Explained with Photos
US Coin Specifications
Explore detailed physical characteristics and specifications for all US coin denominations
US Coin Weight Guide
Complete US Coin Weight Guide: Measure Penny, Quarter, Nickel & Dime Weight in Grams
US Coin Metal Composition
What Are Pennies, Nickels, Dimes, Quarters, Half Dollars & Dollars Made Of
US Coin Size Guide
Complete Penny, Nickel, Dime, Quarter, Half Dollar & Dollar Diameter Chart
US Coin Thickness Chart
Penny, Nickel, Dime, Quarter, Half Dollar & Dollar Dimensions
Who is on US Coins?
Penny, Nickel, Dime, Quarter, Half Dollar & Dollar Portraits
Complete Specifications
Comprehensive guide to all US coin measurements and specifications
