There are coins that can be worth much more than their face value, and a prime example is the United States’ $1 dollar coin, which could be valued at up to $13,500. To determine if you possess one of these rare coins, it’s crucial to understand their unique features and the factors that contribute to their value.
The coin in question is the Eisenhower Dollar, minted between 1971 and 1978 by the United States Mint. On the obverse side, it features the portrait of Dwight D. Eisenhower, the 34th President of the United States, accompanied by the words “LIBERTY, IN GOD WE TRUST,” and the year 1971.
How to identify this thousands-worth $1 coin?
It also includes a mint mark, indicating where it was produced. The most common marks are “D” for Denver and “S” for San Francisco. However, it is precisely the absence of this mint mark that can make this coin exceptionally valuable.
Here are some data you might check in your coin in order to identify if it’s the one:
- Portrait: Dwight D. Eisenhower
- Words Inscribed: LIBERTY, IN GOD WE TRUST
- Year: 1971
- Mint Marks: “D” for Denver, “S” for San Francisco
- Rarity: Absence of a mint mark increases value
On the reverse side, the coin features a majestic eagle landing on the moon, with the Earth beautifully displayed in the background. The inscriptions read “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, E PLURIBUS UNUM, and ONE DOLLAR.” However, what truly sets this coin apart and makes it exceptionally rare is that some of these coins were minted without a mint mark.
This indicates they were produced at the Philadelphia Mint. Due to their scarcity, these coins are considered minting errors, significantly boosting their value.
The Allure of Minting Errors
According to the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS), a $1 coin without a mint mark, if well-preserved, can fetch up to $13,500. This is because rare coins, particularly those with minting errors, are highly sought after by collectors, driving up their price in the numismatic market.
Do you think you might have one of these valuable coins? The first step is to check if the coin has a mint mark. If it’s missing, that’s a promising sign it might have been produced in Philadelphia, which could significantly increase its value. Additionally, it’s essential that the coin is in excellent condition. Coins that are in pristine condition, showing no signs of wear, tend to be the most valuable.
If you believe you have a coin that could be valuable, consider taking it to a pawn shop, consulting a numismatic expert, or seeking information from specialized groups on social media or websites like eBay. While not all rare coins fetch high prices, some might surprise you with a substantial return if you choose to sell them.
