1848 Dollar Value: Mint Varieties, Rarity, and Current Prices

Price Guide for 1848 Dollar Variants

This guide presents price ranges for 1848 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.

1848 Dollar (Regular Strike)

• 3rd Party Price

  Circulated: $236.00 - $5,288.00

  Uncirculated: $10.50 - $63,250.00
• eBay

  Circulated: $32.00 - $2,500.00

  Uncirculated: $288.00
• PCGS Price Guide

  Circulated: $600.00 - $6,500.00

  Uncirculated: $7,500.00 - $200,000.00

More Detail

1848 Dollar (Proof)

• 3rd Party Price

  Circulated: $863.00 - $7,050.00

  Uncirculated: $135.00 - $161,000.00
• PCGS Price Guide

  Circulated: $4,500.00 - $10,000.00

  Uncirculated: $14,000.00 - $135,000.00

More Detail

Design and Specifications of the 1848 Dollar

Rarity Factors and Value Drivers

The condition of the 1848 Dollar significantly impacts its value. Due to its low mintage and age, finding high-grade specimens is extremely challenging. Coins in Uncirculated condition (MS60 and above) are exceptionally rare and highly prized by collectors.

The strike quality can vary, with some coins showing weakness in certain areas, particularly on the eagle's wings and claws. Well-struck examples with full details command a premium. Original luster is highly desirable, and coins with attractive, natural toning can see increased demand from collectors.

The 1848 Dollar is considered a key date in the Seated Liberty series due to its low mintage of only 15,000 pieces. This scarcity makes it highly sought after by collectors and investors alike.

The historical significance of the year, coinciding with the start of the California Gold Rush, adds to its appeal. Provenance can play a role in value, with coins from well-known collections or with a documented history potentially commanding higher prices.

As with many 19th-century silver coins, the 1848 Dollar is susceptible to cleaning and environmental damage. Original, problem-free examples are particularly valuable and increasingly difficult to locate.