If you’ve ever collected stamps, baseball cards, or vintage items, rare dollar coins might pique your interest too. These coins aren’t just fascinating pieces of history—they can also fetch millions of dollars at auctions.
Some rare coins have sold for over $10 million! Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just getting started, here are six of the rarest US dollar coins that every enthusiast dreams of finding.
6. 1866 Proof Liberty Seated Dollar
This coin tells a story of history and intrigue. In 1866, the US Mint produced 725 Proof Liberty Seated silver dollars. Most of these coins had the phrase “In God We Trust” engraved on them. However, a few coins were made using older dies that didn’t include the motto.
One of these coins was minted for Robert Coulton Davis, a collector and pharmacist, in exchange for opium—a trade legend claims was arranged with Mint workers. Only two specimens without the motto are known to exist. One resides in a museum, while the other, once stolen from the Du Pont family, now rests in the Smithsonian Institution.
5. 1776 Silver Continental Dollar
To celebrate America’s independence, Congress authorized the creation of the Continental Dollar in 1776. Benjamin Franklin is believed to have designed this coin, which bears phrases like “Fugio” (Latin for “time flies”) and “Mind Your Business.”
While most were struck in pewter, a rare few were made in silver. The Eric P. Newman specimen considered the finest of these silver coins, sold for $1.4 million. Its historical significance and unique design make it a favorite among collectors.
4. 1870 S Liberty Seated Dollar
Coins minted in 1870, especially in San Francisco, are among the most sought-after by collectors. The “S” on this coin stands for San Francisco, where only a small number of these dollars were produced.
Today, just 15 specimens of the 1870 S Liberty Seated Dollar are known to exist. Even in poor condition, this coin can fetch over $177,000. In mint condition, its value skyrockets to more than $2 million. Check the reverse side of the coin for the “S” under the eagle—if you find one, you’ve struck gold!
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3. 1804 Bust Dollar – Class I (Dexter-Pogue Specimen)
Known as the “King of American Coins,” the 1804 Bust Dollar is a must-have for serious collectors. Although marked with the year 1804, these coins were minted in the 1830s for diplomatic gift sets.
One famous specimen, the Dexter-Pogue coin, has a small “D” punched into a cloud on the reverse side. This mark is believed to have been added by a Chicago collector, William Forrester Dunham. With only eight Class I coins in existence, this dollar is a rare gem with a fascinating history.
2. 1804 Silver Dollar – Class I (The Watters-Childs Specimen)
Another variation of the 1804 Silver Dollar, the Watters-Childs Specimen, holds the title of the finest known example. Nicknamed the “King of American Coins,” this dollar has an unmatched prestige among collectors.
The Sultan of Muscat originally owned this coin, which was part of a diplomatic gift set in 1835. Only 15 specimens exist today, and each is valued at over $1 million. Its rarity, combined with the stories behind its ownership, makes it a prized collector’s item.
1. 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar
Only about 150 of these coins are believed to exist today. In 2013, a Specimen-66 coin from this series sold for over $10 million, making it one of the most valuable coins ever sold. If you come across one, have it authenticated by a reputable coin expert to confirm its value and authenticity.
The first official dollar coin minted by the United States, the 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar, is a piece of history. Its design features Liberty with flowing hair, symbolizing freedom and independence.
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Why Do These Coins Matter?
These rare dollar coins aren’t just valuable—they’re pieces of American history. They capture the stories of a young nation, its culture, and its people. Whether you’re a collector or just curious, discovering one of these coins could be life-changing, both financially and historically.
So, the next time you dig through old drawers or come across loose change, keep an eye out—you never know what treasure you might find!
Editorial Note: This article was created through automated technology, with all details verified and polished by our editorial expert.