Price Guide for 1856 Dollar Variants
This guide presents price ranges for 1856 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.
1856 Dollar (Regular Strike)
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $5.10 - $7,800.00Uncirculated: $17.50 - $14,950.00
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eBayCirculated: $13.50 - $5,350.00Uncirculated: $114.00 - $5,100.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $650.00 - $9,500.00Uncirculated: $10,000.00 - $30,000.00
1856 Dollar (Proof)
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $70.00 - $57,281.00
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eBayCirculated: $430.00Uncirculated: $11,750.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $4,500.00 - $5,000.00Uncirculated: $6,250.00 - $55,000.00
1856 Dollar, CAM (Proof)
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $27,600.00 - $114,000.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $17,500.00 - $170,000.00
Design and Specifications of the 1856 Dollar
The 1856 Seated Liberty Dollar was part of the long-running Seated Liberty series, which began in 1840 and continued until 1873. This coin was minted during a period of significant economic growth and westward expansion in the United States. The California Gold Rush, which began in 1848, was still influencing the nation's economy and coinage production.
In 1856, the Coinage Act of 1853 had recently reduced the weight of several silver coins, but the silver dollar remained unchanged. This led to many silver dollars being exported or melted for their bullion value, as they were worth more than their face value in some markets.
| 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, featuring Liberty seated on a rock, holding a shield and a liberty pole with a Phrygian cap, designed by Christian Gobrecht |
| Reverse Design | Heraldic eagle with shield, olive branch, and arrows, designed by Robert Scot and modified by Christian Gobrecht |
Rarity Factors and Value Drivers
Condition plays a crucial role in determining the value of 1856 Seated Liberty Dollars. Coins in higher grades, particularly those in Mint State (MS) condition, are significantly rarer and more valuable. For both Philadelphia and New Orleans issues:
- Uncirculated specimens (MS60 and above) are scarce and highly sought after.
- Coins with original luster and minimal contact marks command premium prices.
- The presence of attractive, natural toning can significantly enhance value, especially for collectors seeking eye appeal.
- Strike quality is important, with well-struck examples being more desirable.
Mintage: 63,500
Rarity Scale: Scarce
Circulation Status: Limited Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Rare in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant for this year
Market Demand: High, due to overall scarcity and historical significance
Mintage: 2,658,000
Rarity Scale: Uncommon
Circulation Status: Moderate Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Scarce in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant for this year
Market Demand: Moderate, more common than Philadelphia but still desirable
Several factors can influence the value of 1856 Seated Liberty Dollars beyond condition:
1. Mintmark rarity: Philadelphia issues are scarcer than New Orleans, potentially commanding higher premiums in similar grades.
2. Historical significance: As a pre-Civil War coin, it holds appeal for collectors of early American coinage.
3. Die state: Late die state examples showing interesting characteristics may appeal to specialized collectors.
4. Provenance: Coins with a documented history of ownership by notable collectors can see increased value.
5. Certification: Coins graded and authenticated by reputable third-party grading services often command higher prices due to increased buyer confidence.
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