The 1873 Liberty Seated Dollar is a remarkable piece of American history that holds great value for collectors today. This guide will explain its history, design, and why it’s such a valuable coin. If you’re interested in coin collecting or U.S. history, this coin is one you’ll want to learn about.
Historical Background of the 1873 Liberty Seated Dollar
During the 1870s, there was less need for large silver coins like the Liberty Seated Dollar, as smaller coins like the Liberty Seated Half Dollar were more practical. The Coinage Act of 1873, which eliminated the Liberty Seated Dollar, marked an important moment in U.S. history, as it moved the country closer to a gold standard.
This law, sometimes called the “Crime of 1873” by silver supporters, changed the U.S. currency system and affected the economy, particularly for working Americans. The Act replaced the silver dollar with the Trade Dollar, designed for international use, especially with China.
Production of the 1873 Liberty Seated Dollar
The 1873 Liberty Seated Dollar was produced in three U.S. Mints: Philadelphia, Carson City, and San Francisco. The Philadelphia Mint made nearly 300,000 coins, making it the most common version available for collectors. Here’s a breakdown of the production:
| Mint | Coins Produced | Surviving Coins |
|---|---|---|
| Philadelphia Mint | 293,600 (including 600 Proofs) | Most collectible |
| Carson City Mint | 2,300 | Fewer than 200 |
| San Francisco Mint | 700 | Likely all destroyed |
Production Dates and Quantities at the Philadelphia Mint
The Philadelphia Mint struck these coins between January and May of 1873. Here’s a detailed table of production by date:
| Date | Coins Struck |
|---|---|
| January 7, 1873 | 9,000 |
| January 16, 1873 | 21,500 |
| February 17, 1873 | 21,000 |
| February 18, 1873 | 4,000 |
| March 3, 1873 | 20,000 |
| March 14, 1873 | 18,000 |
| March 24, 1873 | 17,000 |
| May 29, 1873 | 11,500 |
Value for Collectors
For those interested in collecting this coin, the Philadelphia Mint version is the most accessible. Its value depends on the condition of the coin:
- About Uncirculated (AU): $1,000 to $2,500
- Choice Uncirculated: $8,000 to $10,000
Rare coins with unique toning or higher grades have sold for much more. For example, some MS66+ graded coins have fetched prices above $50,000 at auction.
Design of the Liberty Seated Dollar
The Liberty Seated Dollar features a timeless design created by Christian Gobrecht, inspired by sketches from Titian Peale and Thomas Sully. Both sides of the coin hold important symbols of American ideals.
Obverse (Front) Design
- Main Feature: Lady Liberty seated on a rock, holding a Liberty pole with a cap in her left hand and balancing a shield with “LIBERTY” in her right.
- Additional Elements: Thirteen stars (representing the original colonies) and the date “1873” centered at the bottom.
Reverse (Back) Design
- Main Feature: An eagle with partially spread wings, holding an olive branch (symbolizing peace) and arrows (symbolizing strength).
- Text: “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” around the top, and “ONE DOL.” at the bottom.
Coin Specifications
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Country | United States of America |
| Year of Issue | 1873 |
| Denomination | One Dollar (USD) |
| Mintmark | None (Philadelphia Mint) |
| Mintage | 293,600 |
| Alloy | .900 Silver, .100 Copper |
| Weight | 26.73 grams |
| Diameter | 38.10 mm |
| Edge | Reeded |
| Designers | Christian Gobrecht (OBV/REV) |
Conclusion
The 1873 Liberty Seated Dollar represents the end of an era in American coinage. Its historical significance, combined with its beautiful design and limited availability, makes it a prized item for collectors. As time passes, the value of these coins continues to rise, especially those in excellent condition. Collecting this coin isn’t just about its monetary value—it’s also about owning a piece of U.S. history.
FAQ’s
Why is the 1873 Liberty Seated Dollar considered rare?
The 1873 Liberty Seated Dollar is rare because it was the last year of production before the Coinage Act of 1873, which stopped the minting of silver dollars. Coins from mints like Carson City and San Francisco are especially rare, with many destroyed or lost over time.
How much is an 1873 Liberty Seated Dollar worth?
The value depends on the coin’s condition. In About Uncirculated (AU) condition, it typically sells for $1,000 to $2,500. In Choice Uncirculated condition, the value can go as high as $8,000 to $10,000, with rare specimens fetching much more at auctions.
What does the design of the 1873 Liberty Seated Dollar represent?
The design features Lady Liberty seated on a rock, symbolizing freedom and strength. The reverse shows an eagle holding an olive branch and arrows, representing peace and preparedness for defense, common symbols in U.S. coinage of the era.