8 Rare Dollar Coins Worth $1000: Rare dollar coins have always fascinated collectors and investors, not just for their historical value but also for their potential worth. While most dollar coins are worth their face value, certain rare editions have become highly valuable due to their low mintage, minting errors, or historical significance. Some of these coins have sold for thousands or even millions of dollars at auctions, making them a hidden treasure for those who happen to own one.
Many individuals unknowingly possess these valuable coins, whether inherited, stored in old collections, or found in everyday circulation. Identifying these rare dollar coins can turn a simple hobby into a profitable discovery. This article explores eight rare U.S. dollar coins worth at least $1,000, detailing their unique characteristics, history, and estimated value in today’s market.
List of 8 Rare Dollar Coins Worth Over $1000
| Coin Name | Year | Estimated Value | Notable Features |
| 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar | 1794 | Up to $12 million | First U.S. silver dollar |
| 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle | 1933 | Up to $18.9 million | Most were melted, making them rare |
| 1893-S Morgan Silver Dollar | 1893 | Over $2,000 | Limited San Francisco mintage |
| 1804 Draped Bust Silver Dollar | 1804 | Up to $4 million | Minted much later than the date suggests |
| 1873-CC Seated Liberty Dollar (No Arrows) | 1873 | Over $1,500 | Carson City Mint rarity |
| 1964 Peace Dollar | 1964 | Over $10,000 | Nearly all were melted |
| 2000-P Sacagawea Dollar (Cheerios Dollar) | 2000 | Up to $5,000 | Special promotional coin |
| 1972 Eisenhower Dollar (Doubled Die Reverse) | 1972 | Up to $2,500 | Features a doubling minting error |
1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar
The 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar holds a special place in American numismatic history as the first silver dollar ever produced by the U.S. Mint. This coin is considered one of the most significant and valuable in the world, with an auction record of $12 million.
The coin features a striking design of Lady Liberty with flowing hair on the obverse, while the reverse showcases an eagle holding an olive branch and arrows. Made of 90% silver and 10% copper, this coin is extremely rare, with very few in existence today.
1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle
The 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle is one of the rarest U.S. coins ever minted. Due to President Franklin Roosevelt’s executive order banning private gold ownership, most of these coins were melted down before they could be released into circulation. Only a few examples survived, making them highly sought after.
This gold coin, made of 90% gold and 10% copper, displays Lady Liberty holding a torch and an olive branch on the front, with a majestic bald eagle flying above the sun on the reverse. In 2021, a surviving piece was sold for an astounding $18.9 million.
1893-S Morgan Silver Dollar
Among the rarest Morgan silver dollars, the 1893-S version was minted in San Francisco, with only 100,000 coins produced. Many were melted down or lost over time, making it difficult to find high-quality specimens today.
This coin features Lady Liberty wearing a Phrygian cap on the obverse, while the reverse showcases an eagle with outstretched wings. The “S” mintmark beneath the wreath confirms its origin. Depending on its condition, this coin can sell for over $2,000.
1804 Draped Bust Silver Dollar
Dubbed the “King of Coins,” the 1804 Draped Bust Silver Dollar is one of the most famous and valuable U.S. coins. Interestingly, despite the 1804 date, these coins were minted years later for diplomatic gifts to foreign dignitaries.
The obverse displays Lady Liberty with a draped bust, while the reverse features a heraldic eagle with a shield. Made of 90% silver and 10% copper, this coin is a collector’s dream, with some examples fetching up to $4 million at auctions.
1873-CC Seated Liberty Dollar (No Arrows)
The 1873-CC Seated Liberty Dollar (No Arrows) is an exceptionally rare coin from the Carson City Mint. Very few of these remain today, making them a highly prized possession for collectors.
It features Lady Liberty seated on a rock on the obverse, while the reverse depicts an eagle clutching arrows and an olive branch. The “CC” mintmark on the reverse indicates its origin. Well-preserved specimens can be valued at more than $1,500.
1964 Peace Dollar
The 1964 Peace Dollar is a rare silver coin that was never officially released. Nearly all examples were melted before they could enter circulation, making any surviving pieces extremely valuable.
This coin features Lady Liberty with a radiant crown on the obverse, while the reverse showcases a bald eagle perched on a branch. Made of 90% silver and 10% copper, this elusive coin has been estimated to be worth over $10,000.
2000-P Sacagawea Dollar (Cheerios Dollar)
A special edition of the Sacagawea Dollar was included in select Cheerios boxes in 2000 as part of a promotional giveaway. These coins are distinct from regular Sacagawea Dollars due to their enhanced tail feather design.
The obverse features Sacagawea carrying her infant son, while the reverse displays a bald eagle with detailed tail feathers. With the “P” mintmark below the date, these coins have been known to sell for as much as $5,000.
1972 Eisenhower Dollar (Doubled Die Reverse)
The 1972 Eisenhower Dollar has a rare minting error known as a “Doubled Die Reverse,” where the design appears slightly doubled due to misalignment during production. This mistake makes the coin highly collectible.
The obverse features a portrait of Dwight Eisenhower, while the reverse showcases the Apollo 11 mission insignia with Earth in the background. Doubling can be seen in the “E Pluribus Unum” inscription. Depending on its condition, this coin can be valued at up to $2,500.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How do I know if my dollar coin is valuable?
The best way to determine a coin’s value is to check its mint date, mintmark, and any unique features such as errors or limited production. Consulting a professional coin appraiser can also provide an accurate estimate.
Where can I sell rare dollar coins?
Rare coins can be sold through auction houses, online marketplaces, coin dealers, and collector conventions.
What factors determine a coin’s value?
A coin’s rarity, condition, demand, and historical background significantly impact its value. Minting errors or limited production runs can also increase worth.
Should I clean my old coins before selling them?
No, cleaning a rare coin can lower its value. Collectors and dealers prefer coins in their original, untouched state.
How can I safely store valuable coins?
Store valuable coins in protective holders, coin albums, or a secure safe to prevent damage and preserve their condition.
Conclusion
Rare dollar coins are hidden treasures that can be worth much more than their face value. If you suspect you own a rare coin, having it professionally appraised can confirm its true worth. Whether kept for investment or collection purposes, these coins remain highly sought after and continue to grow in value over time. Checking old collections and inherited coin stashes could lead to an exciting and potentially profitable discovery.
