1804 Liberty Silver Dollar

The 1804 Liberty silver dollar, often called the "King of American Coins," is one of the rarest and most coveted coins in U.S. history. Despite bearing the date 1804, it was actually minted in 1834 as part of diplomatic gifts during Andrew Jackson's presidency.

With only 15 known specimens, its historical significance and rarity have made it one of the most valuable coins in the world, with one selling for $7.86 million in 2021.

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Historical Context

The 1804 Liberty silver dollar was commissioned in 1834 as part of diplomatic gifts to foreign dignitaries such as the Sultan of Muscat and the King of Siam. These coins were specially struck by the U.S. Mint at the request of President Andrew Jackson after diplomat Edmund Roberts reported that the gifts given to foreign rulers were inadequate.

The coins were backdated to 1804, aligning with a year that many believed had seen regular minting of silver dollars, even though none were actually struck that year.

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Specifications:

Size: 39–40 millimeters
Denomination: 1 dollar
Gross Weight: Approximately 26.96 grams
Actual Silver Weight: 0.7734 troy ounces
Fineness/Composition: 90% silver, 10% copper
Diameter: 39–40 millimeters
Thickness: 2.5 millimeters (approximate)
Specific Gravity: Not specified

Coin Description:

The obverse of the 1804 Liberty silver dollar features a portrait of Liberty, along with the inscription "LIBERTY" and the date 1804. The reverse depicts a heraldic eagle clutching arrows and an olive branch, symbolizing strength and peace. Above the eagle, 13 stars represent the original 13 American colonies. The coin’s intricate design and the historic nature of its minting make it a masterpiece of numismatic artistry.

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Cultural and Numismatic Significance:

The 1804 Liberty silver dollar holds an almost mythical status in the world of numismatics due to its extreme rarity, unique production history, and association with U.S. diplomacy. Its reputation as the "King of Coins" has persisted for more than two centuries, and its value continues to rise as collectors and historians alike seek this elusive treasure. The coin has fascinated numismatists since its rediscovery in the 19th century and remains a symbol of American coinage prestige.

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Numismatic Value:

The value of the 1804 Liberty silver dollar can vary depending on its class (I, II, or III) and condition. The most valuable examples are from Class I, with the finest known specimen selling for $7.86 million in 2021. The value for Class II restrikes can exceed $10 million, while Class III restrikes are valued between $1.8 million and $2.45 million.

Free Appraisal With No Obligation To Sell

Take the first step toward selling your silver coins by getting a free appraisal today. Our process is designed to be transparent, convenient, and stress-free, giving you the confidence to sell when you’re ready.

At Coinfully, we’re committed to helping you get the most for your silver coins—all from the comfort of your home.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I know I’m getting a fair price for my silver coins?

At Coinfully, we pride ourselves on transparency. Our appraisals are based on the current market value of silver, including the silver content of your coins, and the numismatic value of collectible coins. We provide a detailed explanation of how we arrive at your offer, ensuring that you’re fully informed and confident in the price you receive.

Is my shipment insured when I send my coins to Coinfully?

Yes, we provide full insurance coverage for your shipment. Whether you’re sending silver bullion coins, junk silver coins, or American Silver Eagle coins, your coins are protected throughout the entire shipping process, giving you peace of mind that your valuable items are safe.

What types of silver coins does Coinfully buy?

We buy all types of U.S. silver coins, including American Silver Eagle coins, silver dollar coins, silver bullion coins, junk silver coins, and other collectible coins. No matter the type or condition, we’re interested in purchasing your coins, whether you’re looking to sell silver coins for melt value or as collectible items.

What if I’m not ready to sell after receiving an appraisal?

There’s no obligation to sell your coins after receiving an appraisal from Coinfully. We offer a free, no-pressure appraisal service to help you understand the value of your collection. You can decide to sell when you’re ready, without any pressure from us.

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