Price Guide for 1839 Dollar Variants
This guide presents price ranges for 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.
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $3,910.00 – $39,600.00Uncirculated: $125.00 – $168,000.00
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eBayCirculated: $95.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $25,000.00 – $45,500.00Uncirculated: $47,500.00 – $200,000.00
Design and Specifications of the 1839 Dollar
The 1839 Silver Dollar marks an important transition in American coinage. It was the first year of the Seated Liberty dollar design, which would continue until 1873. This coin represents a significant shift from the earlier Flowing Hair and Draped Bust designs, introducing a more modern and allegorical representation of Liberty.
The year 1839 is particularly noteworthy as it saw the production of both the Gobrecht dollar pattern and the regular issue Seated Liberty dollar. This transition makes the 1839 dollar a crucial piece in U.S. numismatic history.
| Weight | 26.73 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 39 mm |
| Mint Marks | No mint mark (Philadelphia), O (New Orleans) |
| Composition | 90% silver, 10% copper |
| Obverse Design | Seated Liberty design, designed by Christian Gobrecht |
| Reverse Design | Flying eagle with shield, designed by Christian Gobrecht |
Rarity Factors and Value Drivers
The condition of 1839 Silver Dollars has a significant impact on their value. Due to their age and historical importance, high-grade specimens are especially valuable. Uncirculated examples are extremely rare and command substantial premiums.
For Philadelphia issues, the Type I (No Drapery) variety is scarcer and generally more valuable than the Type II (With Drapery). The presence of original luster, minimal contact marks, and strong strike details greatly enhance the coin’s desirability and value.
Mintage: 300,000
Rarity Scale: Scarce
Circulation Status: Limited Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Rare in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: Type I (No Drapery), Type II (With Drapery)
Market Demand: High, due to historical significance and first-year status
Mintage: 116,000
Rarity Scale: Rare
Circulation Status: Limited Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Very rare in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: All New Orleans dollars are Type II (With Drapery)
Market Demand: High, due to low mintage and first year of New Orleans mint
Provenance can play a crucial role in the value of 1839 Silver Dollars. Coins with a documented history of ownership by notable collectors or inclusion in famous collections can command significant premiums.
The New Orleans mint issues are particularly prized due to their lower mintage and historical significance as the first silver dollars produced at this mint. Well-preserved examples with a strong, clear ‘O’ mint mark are highly sought after by collectors.
Additionally, attractive toning can significantly increase the value of these coins, especially if it’s natural and aesthetically pleasing. Coins with exceptional eye appeal often realize prices well above those of similarly graded but less attractive specimens.
