SEATED LIBERTY DOLLAR

The Seated Liberty Dollar was struck by the United States mint from 1840 until 1873. This silver dollar gained popularity at the time it was introduced, and remains a collector’s favorite today. Diversify your precious metals portfolio by acquiring a Seated Liberty Dollar. 

HISTORY

Originally minted for public circulation in 1840 by the United States, the Seated Liberty was the last silver dollar that was struck before the Coinage Act of 1873 was passed. At first, the Seated Liberty Silver Dollars were only manufactured at the Philadelphia facility but began to be struck in by the New Orleans location in 1846. By the late 1840s, silver was being hoarded and exported because the price of silver increased relative to that of gold, due to the effect of the California Gold Rush. This resulted in lower mintages of the Seated Liberty Dollar since smaller quantities of silver were being transacted with the US Mints. However, by the last few years of the Seated Liberty Dollar series, US silver production increased along with the mintage numbers. 

DESIGN

The Seated Liberty Silver Dollar was designed by the US Chief Engraver at the time, Christian Gobrecht. The obverse showcases Lady Liberty seated on a rock holding a cap on a pole in one hand and a shield in the other. Thirteen stars are features surrounding her with the date of issue below. 

There was a small quantity of the Seated Liberty dollars struck in 1836, 1838, and 1839 with a flying eagle on the reverse, with surrounding inscriptions. This version originally features stars on the reverse, however, they were removed for the 1839 coin. 

Beginning in 1840 when the coins were produced for larger-scale use, the reverse design featured the American Eagle with wings outstretched, holding arrows and branches in its talons. Surrounding inscriptions read: “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and “ONE DOL.”.  Beginning in 1866 a ribbon with the motto “IN GOD WE TRUST” was added. 

Seated Liberty Dollar - No Motto (1840 - 1866)

Image source: https://www.usacoinbook.com

Seated Liberty Dollar - Motto on Reverse (1866 - 1873)

Image source: https://www.usacoinbook.com

VALUE

Seated Liberty Silver Dollars can be seen on the market for a wide variety of prices. You can expect a price range anywhere from a few hundred dollars to around $2,000, and some even exceed that price. Numerous factors contribute to the value of a Seated Liberty Silver Dollar, some of which include rarity, condition, as well as grade. As stated above, mintage numbers vary year by year, resulting in the rarer coins being listed at higher price points. Additionally, Seated Liberty Dollars from earlier years in good condition will be worth more than more recent years. There are several grading companies that assess the condition of the coin; those with higher grades will have higher price values.  

CONCLUSION

Whether you are a novice or advanced collector, the Seated Liberty Dollars will bolster your portfolio. As with any coin, be sure you are doing business with trusted precious metal dealers. If you need any assistance, our customer service team is available during normal business hours via our website.