1855 Dollar Value Guide: Silver & Gold Dollars
Complete 1855 dollar value guide covering Seated Liberty silver dollars ($2,100-$149,500) and Type 2 gold dollars ($400-$329,000). Includes all mints and varieties.
The year 1855 produced two distinct dollar denominations with dramatically different values.
1855 Seated Liberty Silver Dollar:
- Circulated:$2,100 – $9,000
- Uncirculated:$9,000 – $32,000
- Top specimens:$149,500 (MS-64, major rarity with only 26,000 minted)
- Proof strikes:$6,000 – $136,500 (only ~60 made)
1855 Type 2 Indian Princess Gold Dollar:
- Philadelphia (common):$400 – $52,500
- Charlotte (C):$3,000 – $50,000 (notoriously weak strikes)
- Dahlonega (D):$9,100 – $225,000 (only 1,811 minted, major rarity)
- New Orleans (O):$975 – $75,000
- Proof strikes:$287,000 – $329,000 (only 10-12 made)
The 1855 silver dollar is a key-date rarity with extremely low survival rates. The Type 2 gold dollar series is plagued by inherent striking problems that make condition grading complex, with branch mint issues being significant rarities.
What's Your 1855 Dollar Worth?
Select your coin's mint mark and condition to get a value estimate.
Focus on choosing the right sales channel to maximize your return.
Expected: ()
1855 Dollar Coinage: Two Denominations, Two Stories
The year 1855 holds a unique place in American numismatic history as one of the few years when the United States produced two distinct dollar denominations: the Seated Liberty silver dollar and the Type 2 Indian Princess gold dollar. The silver dollar is a profound rarity with a business strike mintage of only 26,000 and an extremely low survival rate, making it a key date in its series. The gold dollar presents a more complex story—while the Philadelphia issue is relatively common, the branch mint strikes from Charlotte, Dahlonega, and New Orleans are significant rarities plagued by inherent design flaws that created notorious striking problems.
Values range from $400 for common-date Philadelphia gold dollars in circulated grades to over $329,000 for the finest proof examples. The 1855-D gold dollar, with a mintage of only 1,811 pieces, commands prices from $9,100 to $225,000 depending on grade and strike quality. This guide provides comprehensive pricing, grading insights, die variety identification, and authentication guidance for all 1855 dollar issues across both metals and all four mints.
Identifying 1855 Dollar Coins: Design Features and Mint Marks
Seated Liberty Silver Dollar Design
The 1855 Seated Liberty dollar features Christian Gobrecht's iconic design based on sketches by Thomas Sully and Titian Peale. The obverse displays Liberty seated on a rock, holding a pole topped with a Phrygian cap in her left hand and a shield inscribed "LIBERTY" in her right. Thirteen stars circle the upper periphery, and the date 1855 appears at the bottom, flanked by two small arrows. These arrows signify a weight reduction enacted in 1853 to prevent melting of silver coinage, making this a "No Motto, Arrows at Date" type used only in 1854-1855.
The reverse depicts a naturalistic eagle clutching an olive branch and arrows, with the legend "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" and denomination "ONE DOL." The reverse lacks the motto "IN GOD WE TRUST," which wasn't added until 1866. The coin has a reeded edge, weighs 26.73 grams, and measures 38.10mm in diameter. Philadelphia Mint strikes bear no mint mark. For the 1855 issue, no branch mint silver dollars were produced.
Type 2 Gold Dollar Design
The 1855 Type 2 gold dollar, designed by James Barton Longacre, features a small Indian Princess head on the obverse with a feathered headdress. The date appears below the portrait. The reverse displays an agricultural wreath encircling the denomination "1 DOLLAR" with the date above. This design type was used only from 1854-1856, making it the scarcest of the three gold dollar types.
A critical identifying characteristic is the coin's increased diameter (14.3-15mm) compared to the earlier Type 1 design. To maintain the same gold content while increasing size, the planchet was made thinner—a design choice that created the series' notorious striking problems. The high relief combined with thin planchets resulted in consistently weak centers, particularly affecting the "85" in the date and "LL" in "DOLLAR."
Mint marks for branch mint issues—"C" for Charlotte, "D" for Dahlonega, and "O" for New Orleans—appear on the reverse below the wreath's bow. Philadelphia issues bear no mint mark. The weight is 1.67-1.70 grams with 90% gold composition.
1855 Dollar Value Guide: Complete Price Tables by Mint and Grade
1855 Seated Liberty Dollar - Business Strike
The 1855 Seated Liberty dollar is a classic condition rarity with value escalating dramatically in higher grades. From an original mintage of 26,000, high attrition from melting and circulation left an estimated survival of only 300-400 coins across all grades. Population reports confirm extreme scarcity: NGC has certified just 17 examples in MS-60 or better, while PCGS has certified only 25. Despite this rarity, the coin has been described as "dramatically underrated" due to market focus on later Morgan dollars.
| Grade | Value |
|---|---|
| F-12 | $2,100 - $3,000 |
| VF-20 | $3,000 - $4,500 |
| EF-40 | $4,500 - $6,000 |
| AU-50 | $5,000 - $5,800 |
| AU-58 | $8,400 - $9,000 |
| MS-60 | $9,000 - $10,000 |
| MS-62 | $13,500 - $14,500 |
| MS-63 | $26,400 - $32,000 |
| MS-64 | $141,000+ |
Auction record: $149,500 for MS-64 specimen.
1855 Seated Liberty Dollar - Proof Strike
Proof 1855 Seated Liberty dollars are objects of great numismatic desire with an estimated mintage of only 60 pieces. These coins were struck using the same die pair as business strikes, though evidence suggests proofs were struck first from fresh dies. They exhibit deeply mirrored fields and sharp, often frosted design elements. Coins with the Cameo (CAM) designation showing strong field-to-device contrast command substantial premiums.
| Grade | Value |
|---|---|
| PR-53 | $6,000 |
| PR-63 | $12,000 - $25,000 |
| PR-64 CAM | $34,000 - $47,500 |
| PR-65 | $45,000 |
| PR-66 CAM | $97,000 - $136,500 |
1855 Type 2 Gold Dollar - Philadelphia Mint
With a mintage of 758,269, the Philadelphia issue is the most common Type 2 gold dollar and serves as the primary type coin for collectors. Despite the large mintage, gem examples are rare due to inherent striking problems and susceptibility to wear in circulation. Values are readily available in circulated grades but escalate dramatically in high mint state preservation.
| Grade | Value |
|---|---|
| F-12 | $400 |
| XF-45 | $600 - $625 |
| AU-58 | $1,000 - $1,200 |
| MS-62 | $2,350 - $2,400 |
| MS-63 | $5,000 |
| MS-64 | $9,500 |
| MS-65 | $23,500 - $30,000 |
| MS-66 | $50,000 - $52,500 |
1855-C Type 2 Gold Dollar - Charlotte Mint
The 1855-C is notorious as one of the most poorly struck coins in U.S. numismatics. With a mintage of 9,803, most examples were struck on low-quality, unprepared planchets exhibiting extreme weakness at centers. Grading is exceptionally difficult and must be based on residual luster rather than design detail. The market shows wide value variance heavily dependent on strike quality and surface preservation, with superior examples commanding two to three times the value of lackluster pieces in the same grade holder.
| Grade | Value |
|---|---|
| VF-20 | $4,000 |
| EF-40 | $5,500 - $6,000 |
| AU-55 | $7,000 - $15,750 |
| AU-58 | $14,000 - $21,000 |
| MS-61 | $22,500 - $35,000 |
| MS-62 | $25,000 - $50,000 |
⚠️ Strike Quality Matters More Than Grade
For 1855-C gold dollars, eye appeal and strike quality are far more important than numerical grade. A high-quality AU-55 can be worth two to three times more than a poorly struck MS-61. Example: A PCGS/CAC AU-55 sold for $17,684 while another NGC AU-55 brought only $5,040.
1855-D Type 2 Gold Dollar - Dahlonega Mint
This is a major American gold rarity. With a mintage of only 1,811—the sole Type 2 gold dollar from Dahlonega—and an estimated survival of just 80-100 coins in all grades, it ranks among the rarest gold dollars from any mint. Most known examples are in low grades, often with damage, and are frequently overgraded due to their rarity. Values are exceptionally high across the grade spectrum.
| Grade | Value |
|---|---|
| VF-20 | $9,100 |
| EF-40 | $22,000 |
| AU-50 | $27,500 |
| AU-55 | $42,000 |
| AU-58 | $53,500 - $57,500 |
| MS-61 | $67,500+ |
| MS-62 | $85,000+ |
| MS-64 | $164,500 - $225,000 |
Auction record: $164,500 for MS-64 specimen.
1855-O Type 2 Gold Dollar - New Orleans Mint
While the most common branch mint Type 2 gold dollar with a mintage of 55,000, the 1855-O is still over ten times rarer than its Philadelphia counterpart and represents a key one-year type coin for the New Orleans mint. Mint state examples are scarce and highly sought after by collectors.
| Grade | Value |
|---|---|
| VF-20 | $975 - $1,150 |
| EF-40 | $1,750 - $2,000 |
| AU-58 | $4,250 - $4,500 |
| MS-61 | $8,000 - $11,500 |
| MS-62 | $10,500 - $15,000 |
| MS-63 | $15,000 - $35,000 |
| MS-64 | $27,500 - $57,500 |
Auction record: $75,000 for MS-65+ specimen.
1855 Type 2 Gold Dollar - Proof Strike
The Proof 1855 Type 2 gold dollar is an extreme rarity with an official mintage of just 10-12 pieces and fewer than 10 confirmed survivors today. These numismatic icons trade for six-figure sums when they appear at auction. Even on these specially prepared coins, a weak '8' in the date confirms this as an inherent die characteristic rather than a striking flaw.
| Grade | Value |
|---|---|
| PR-65 | $287,000 |
| PR-65+ DCAM | $329,000 |
Auction records: $287,000 (PR-65, 2005); $329,000 (PR-65+ DCAM, 2020).
Grading 1855 Dollars: Understanding Wear and Strike Quality
Grading Seated Liberty Silver Dollars
Grading the 1855 Seated Liberty dollar follows standard practices for the series, with wear assessment focused on Liberty's highest points and the eagle's details on the reverse. In Fine (F-12) grade, Liberty's gown shows heavy wear with stars appearing flat. Details remain but lack sharpness. In Very Fine (VF-20), moderate wear is evident but all major design elements are clearly visible, including Liberty's shield details and most drapery folds.
Extremely Fine (EF-40) specimens show light wear on Liberty's breast, knee, and head, with most feather details visible on the eagle. About Uncirculated grades (AU-50 to AU-58) display only slight friction on the highest points with most original mint luster remaining. In mint state, full original luster is present with no wear, though contact marks may be evident. The key to grading uncirculated examples is distinguishing original surfaces from cleaned coins, which show hairline scratches and unnatural luster.
Grading Type 2 Gold Dollars: The Strike Quality Challenge
The Type 2 gold dollar series presents one of the most significant grading challenges in 19th-century American numismatics due to inherent design flaws. The high relief combined with thin planchets meant that perfectly struck business strikes are virtually nonexistent, especially from branch mints. This fundamental production problem requires graders to prioritize remaining mint luster over design completeness—a departure from standard grading methodology.
A coin showing weak centers with flat details on the date "85" and letters "LL" in "DOLLAR" may still grade mint state if it retains full, original luster with no evidence of circulation wear. Conversely, a coin with better strike definition but worn luster will grade lower. This subjective process has led to market stratification where experienced collectors pay substantial premiums for coins with original surfaces and relatively strong strikes, while avoiding weakly struck examples on flawed planchets even if both share the same numerical grade.
For circulated grades, standard wear patterns apply. Fine (F-12) shows moderate to heavy wear with date readable and major design elements visible but lacking detail. Very Fine (VF-20) displays light to moderate wear with most hair detail visible on the Princess portrait. Extremely Fine (EF-40) shows only slight wear on high points with sharp detail in protected areas. About Uncirculated grades retain nearly full luster with only slight friction on the highest points.
💡 Buy the Coin, Not the Holder
For Type 2 gold dollars, especially branch mint issues, eye appeal and surface quality matter more than the number on the holder. An 1855-C with superior strike and original surfaces in an AU-55 holder is often more desirable and valuable than a lackluster MS-61.
Special Designation: Cameo (CAM) and Deep Cameo (DCAM)
Proof strikes of both 1855 dollar types may receive Cameo or Deep Cameo designations from grading services. These designations recognize strong contrast between deeply mirrored fields and frosted devices. For the already rare 1855 Proof issues, CAM and DCAM designations command substantial premiums. A Proof-64 Seated Liberty dollar with Cameo designation values at $34,000 to $47,500 compared to $12,000 to $25,000 for a regular PR-63.
Die Varieties of 1855 Gold Dollars
1855-C Winter-1 and Winter-2 Varieties
The market for 1855-C gold dollars is heavily influenced by two major die varieties identified by researcher Doug Winter. Value depends less on numerical grade and more on which variety a coin represents and its associated striking characteristics. These varieties are distinguished by the position of the second '5' in the date relative to the 'A' in DOLLAR on the reverse.
Winter-1: This scarcer variety is identifiable by the second '5' in the date being positioned fully below the 'A' in DOLLAR. These coins tend to be flatly struck at the centers but show sharp borders and are typically found on better quality planchets with fewer surface defects.
Winter-2: The more common variety shows the second '5' positioned slightly to the right of the 'A' in DOLLAR. These coins often display better central detail but are plagued by more noticeable die clash marks and are almost always found on flawed, poor-quality planchets.
The market recognizes this quality difference with substantial premiums. A high-quality example (often Winter-1) commands two to three times more than a low-quality example (often Winter-2) in the same numerical grade. Collectors are strongly advised to prioritize strike and surface quality over the grade designation when acquiring this issue.
1855-D Full Date and Weak Date Varieties
The vast majority of surviving 1855-D gold dollars exhibit a very weakly struck '8' in the date—a byproduct of the Type 2 design's high-relief flaw. However, a small and very rare subset estimated at fewer than a dozen known examples was struck early from the dies and shows a complete, fully impressed date. This is known as the "Full Date" variety and is highly desirable among specialists.
The Full Date variety commands a significant premium of 30% to 50% over the value of a typical Weak Date coin of the same grade. This premium is most pronounced in higher grades where the aesthetic improvement is most apparent. Given the extreme rarity of the 1855-D in any form, Full Date examples represent premier numismatic prizes when they appear on the market.
Mint Errors on 1855 Dollar Coinage
1855-O Double Struck Off-Center Gold Dollar
This unique error represents a landmark in U.S. numismatics. It is the only known U.S. gold coin produced between 1795 and 1933 to have been double struck with the second strike significantly off-center. Certified by NGC as AU Details (Damaged), its uniqueness places it in a special category of numismatic treasures with a value well into six figures. This error provides fascinating insight into the minting process and the quality control challenges faced by 19th-century branch mints.
Die Clashes on Type 2 Gold Dollars
Due to the high-relief Type 2 gold dollar design, clashed dies are extremely common and are considered a characteristic of the issue rather than a significant error. When the obverse and reverse dies struck together without a planchet between them, they left impressions of each design on the opposing die. These impressions are then visible as ghost images on subsequently struck coins.
Minor die clashes add no value to Type 2 gold dollars—they are simply expected. However, particularly dramatic or visually appealing clashes can command a modest premium. An example described as a "PARTIAL BROCKAGE GHOST HEAD" on an 1855 gold dollar graded NGC MS-61 was offered for $1,650, a small premium over a standard MS-61. Collectors should be aware that die clashes do not constitute major errors on this series and should not pay substantial premiums for typical examples.
Authentication and Counterfeit Detection
Authentication of 1855 dollar coinage requires careful examination of design details, metallic composition, and physical specifications. The rarity and value of these coins make them attractive targets for counterfeiters, ranging from crude copies to sophisticated fakes with correct precious metal content.
For Seated Liberty dollars, counterfeits are often identified by soft, rounded, or "mushy" details, particularly in the lettering and stars. Genuine coins have sharp, well-defined features with crisp letter punches and star points. Fakes may exhibit surface porosity from casting and will fail metallurgical analysis, often being composed of alloys with high concentrations of copper and zinc instead of the correct 90% silver composition. Verifying the coin's weight (26.73 grams) and diameter (38.10mm) with a precise digital scale and caliper is a critical first step in authentication.
Type 2 gold dollar counterfeits are prevalent throughout the series. Key diagnostics for fakes include a lack of sharpness in the devices, tool marks around lettering or design elements, and an overall soft or out-of-focus appearance even in areas that should be sharp. Basic tests include checking the coin's weight (1.67 grams), dimensions (14.3-15mm), non-magnetic properties, and acoustic "ring" to identify obvious forgeries. However, sophisticated counterfeits with correct gold content exist and require expert examination.
Coins that have been holed, plugged, bent, or harshly cleaned are considered "problem coins" and trade at severe discounts. Telltale signs of cleaning include fine, parallel scratches (hairlines) across the fields, unnaturally bright or dull luster, and uneven or blotchy toning. Damage such as rim dings, scratches, or evidence of plugging (filling a hole) will result in a "Details" grade from certification services and drastically reduce market value. An 1855-C gold dollar graded PCGS Fine Details (Plugged) sold for only $552, a small fraction of the approximately $2,000 value for a problem-free example in the same grade.
Given the high values involved, purchasing certified examples from reputable third-party grading services such as PCGS or NGC is strongly recommended. These services provide authentication guarantees and consistent grading standards that protect buyers and enhance liquidity when selling.
Preservation and Storage
Proper long-term storage is crucial for preserving the value and condition of 1855 dollar coinage. These historic coins should be housed in inert, archival-quality holders such as those used by PCGS and NGC, which protect against environmental damage and physical contact. The sonically sealed holders prevent exposure to atmospheric contaminants while allowing viewing of both sides of the coin.
The storage environment should be climate-controlled with stable, low humidity (ideally 40-50%) and moderate temperature (around 70°F) to prevent the development of corrosion or undesirable toning. Avoid storage in areas prone to temperature fluctuations, high humidity, or exposure to chemical fumes. Silver dollars are particularly susceptible to toning from sulfur compounds in the air, while gold coins can develop spotting in humid conditions.
Handling should be kept to an absolute minimum. When necessary, hold coins by their edges only, never touching the surfaces. Wear cotton or nitrile gloves to prevent transfer of oils and acids from skin contact. Never attempt to clean coins—even light wiping can cause microscopic scratches that significantly reduce value. If a coin requires conservation, consult with professional numismatic conservators through major grading services.
For high-value specimens such as the 1855-D gold dollar or Proof strikes, consider bank safe deposit box storage or a home safe rated for valuable items. Insurance coverage specifically for numismatic collections is advisable for collections exceeding $10,000 in value.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is my 1855 dollar worth?
Value depends on which type of dollar and which mint. An 1855 Seated Liberty silver dollar ranges from $2,100 (F-12) to $149,500 (MS-64). An 1855 Type 2 gold dollar from Philadelphia ranges from $400 (F-12) to $52,500 (MS-66). Branch mint gold dollars command premiums: Charlotte $3,000-$50,000, Dahlonega $9,100-$225,000, New Orleans $975-$75,000. Grade and strike quality are critical value factors.
How do I identify the mint mark on an 1855 gold dollar?
Mint marks on 1855 Type 2 gold dollars appear on the reverse below the wreath's bow. Look for a small letter: "C" for Charlotte, "D" for Dahlonega, or "O" for New Orleans. Philadelphia issues have no mint mark. Use magnification to clearly see the small mint mark letter.
Why are 1855 Type 2 gold dollars so poorly struck?
The Type 2 design featured high relief on a thin planchet to increase the coin's diameter while maintaining the same gold content. This combination was incompatible with the striking pressure of 1850s coining presses, resulting in consistently weak centers. This is an inherent design flaw, not a defect of individual coins. Even proof strikes show weak areas.
Should I get my 1855 dollar professionally graded?
Yes, strongly recommended. Given the high values involved (minimum $400 for common dates, many thousands for key dates), third-party certification from PCGS or NGC provides authentication, consistent grading, and protection for both buyers and sellers. Certification is essential for coins valued above $500. Grading costs are typically $30-$100 depending on value and service level.
What is the difference between Winter-1 and Winter-2 varieties of the 1855-C?
Winter-1 (scarcer) has the second '5' in the date positioned fully below the 'A' in DOLLAR on the reverse, with sharp borders and better planchets. Winter-2 (common) has the second '5' positioned right of the 'A', shows die clashes, and typically has poor quality planchets. Winter-1 examples command two to three times the value of Winter-2 in the same grade due to superior strike quality and surface.
Is the 1855 Seated Liberty dollar a good investment?
The 1855 Seated Liberty dollar is described as "dramatically underrated" by numismatic experts. With only 26,000 minted and an estimated 300-400 surviving in all grades, it is genuinely rare yet often trades at prices lower than its scarcity warrants due to market focus on Morgan dollars. For advanced collectors, this may present value opportunity, though all coin investments carry risk and should be based on collecting enjoyment rather than speculation.
What is the melt value of 1855 dollars?
The 1855 Seated Liberty silver dollar contains 0.7734 troy ounces of silver, giving it a melt value of approximately $37 at current prices. The 1855 gold dollar contains 0.0484 troy ounces of gold, with a melt value around $194. However, numismatic values for all 1855 dollars far exceed melt value, with even common-date gold dollars worth at least double their gold content in the lowest grades.
Are there any major error coins from 1855?
Yes, a unique 1855-O gold dollar exists that was double struck off-center—the only known U.S. gold coin from 1795-1933 with this error. It is certified NGC AU Details (Damaged) and valued well into six figures. Die clashes are extremely common on Type 2 gold dollars but are considered normal for the series rather than premium errors.
How should I store my 1855 dollar coin?
Store in archival-quality holders from PCGS or NGC in a climate-controlled environment with stable humidity (40-50%) and moderate temperature. Avoid handling; hold by edges only if necessary. Never attempt cleaning. High-value pieces should be stored in bank safe deposit boxes or rated home safes. Consider specialized numismatic insurance for collections exceeding $10,000.
Why do some 1855-D gold dollars sell for much more than others in the same grade?
The rare "Full Date" variety with a completely struck '8' in the date commands 30-50% premiums over typical "Weak Date" examples. Additionally, because the 1855-D is extremely rare (only 1,811 minted, 80-100 surviving), market prices vary significantly based on eye appeal, surface quality, and whether the coin has been conserved or has original surfaces. Auction results show wide variance even within the same grade.
Research Methodology and Sources
This guide synthesizes information from primary numismatic references including PCGS CoinFacts, NGC Coin Explorer, Stack's Bowers Galleries, Heritage Auctions, and specialized research by Douglas Winter, a recognized authority on Southern branch mint gold coinage. Pricing data reflects recent auction results and retail market observations from major dealers and auction houses as of late 2025.
Mintage figures are taken from official U.S. Mint records and verified through multiple numismatic references. Population reports for certified coins are sourced from PCGS and NGC population databases. Die variety attributions follow the research and nomenclature established by Douglas Winter for Charlotte and Dahlonega gold coinage.
Market values for rare coins fluctuate based on supply, demand, precious metal prices, and overall economic conditions. Prices in this guide represent recent market activity but should be verified with current dealer quotes or auction results before buying or selling. For the most accurate valuation of a specific coin, consult with professional numismatists or submit to third-party grading services for certification and market assessment.
All information presented is drawn exclusively from the referenced source material. No values, mintage figures, or historical claims are inferred or estimated beyond what is explicitly documented. Reference URLs are provided throughout for readers seeking additional details or verification of specific claims.
