If you’re a coin collector or even just a history buff, you’ve probably heard whispers about the legendary 1804 Silver Dollar. Often called the “King of American Coins,” this ultra-rare treasure has sold for as much as $4.1 million at auction — and for good reason.
The Story Behind the Coin
Contrary to what the date says, these silver dollars were not minted in 1804. Instead, they were struck decades later in the 1830s–1850s as diplomatic gifts. The Class I versions were made for presentation sets ordered by the U.S. State Department to give to foreign dignitaries.
- Year (on coin): 1804
- Actual mintage period: 1834–1835 (Class I)
- Mint: Philadelphia
- Composition: 89.24% Silver, 10.76% Copper
- Weight: 26.96 grams
- Diameter: 39–40 mm
Why It’s Worth Millions
Only 8 known Class I 1804 Silver Dollars exist today. The coin features Lady Liberty on the obverse with 13 stars representing the original colonies, and an elegant heraldic eagle on the reverse.
🔹 Rarity: Extremely limited mintage
🔹 History: Produced for high-level diplomatic gifts
🔹 Prestige: Regarded as the most iconic U.S. coin
🔹 Auction Price: $4.1 million (record sale for Class I)
💡 Did You Know?
There are three classes of the 1804 Silver Dollar:
- Class I – Official diplomatic strikes (rarest and most valuable)
- Class II – Unauthorized Mint restrikes (only 1 known)
- Class III – Later restrikes (6 known)
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