1853 Dollar Value: Mint Varieties, Rarity, and Current Prices

Price Guide for 1853 Dollar Variants

This guide presents price ranges for 1853 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.

1853 Dollar (Regular Strike)

• 3rd Party Price

  Circulated: $150.00 - $5,760.00

  Uncirculated: $13.50 - $129,250.00
• eBay

  Circulated: $19.25 - $4,665.13

  Uncirculated: $179.00 - $6,322.00
• PCGS Price Guide

  Circulated: $500.00 - $5,250.00

  Uncirculated: $5,500.00 - $225,000.00

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1853 Dollar Restrike (Proof)

• 3rd Party Price

  Circulated: $16,318.40

  Uncirculated: $1,980.00 - $105,750.00
• PCGS Price Guide

  Circulated: $14,000.00 - $20,000.00

  Uncirculated: $25,000.00 - $130,000.00

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1853 Dollar Restrike, CAM (Proof)

• 3rd Party Price

  Uncirculated: $99,875.00 - $184,000.00
• PCGS Price Guide

  Uncirculated: $85,000.00 - $135,000.00

More Detail

Design and Specifications of the 1853 Dollar

Rarity Factors and Value Drivers

Condition plays a crucial role in the value of 1853 Seated Liberty Dollars. Uncirculated examples are particularly scarce and highly sought after by collectors. The presence of original mint luster significantly enhances the coin's appeal and value. Coins with minimal contact marks, strong strikes, and attractive natural toning command premium prices.

For circulated examples, the amount of wear on Liberty's leg and the eagle's feathers are key areas for grading. Even slight differences in wear can result in substantial price variations, especially in higher circulated grades like XF and AU.

Die varieties can add interest and value to 1853 Seated Liberty Dollars. Collectors often look for variations in the positioning of dates, lettering, or other design elements. While not as prominent as in some other years, these subtle differences can still affect value.

The historical context of the California Gold Rush adds to the coin's appeal. Many 1853 dollars were likely melted due to their high silver content, making surviving examples more valuable to collectors and historians alike.

Lastly, provenance can play a role in value. Coins with a documented history of ownership, especially if linked to notable collections or historical events, can command a premium in the market.