What is the value of an 1865 US silver dollar?

Answer 1

Warning - There are many fake "Washington silver dollars" dated either 1865 or 1851. These are modern counterfeits, most likely made in the Far East. The picture of Washington is crudely copied from modern quarters which of course were first released in 1932. Genuine silver dollars from this period have a picture of a seated Miss Liberty holding a shield and Liberty cap pole, NOT George Washington.

Numismedia lists the following approximate retail values as of 04/2011:

Very worn condition - $342

Moderately worn - $450

Slightly worn - $690

Almost no wear - $1,804

Uncirculated - $3,310 to $73,130 depending on quality

DISCLAIMER: The retail values quoted are the best available as of the date shown, but may vary significantly due to changes in the precious metals market. Also the wholesale (buying) price of a coin will be less than the selling (retail) price. A reputable coin dealer will be able to give a more accurate valuation based on inspection of the coin.

Answer

The value of a coin depends on several things, its condition, its rarity, and its popularity (or how much demand there is for it among collectors). In other words, there is no distinctive "set" value. In 1865, the silver dollar was the Seated Liberty type. That year, 47,000 of them were minted, only in Philadelphia. According to the Professional Coin Grading Service, an 1865 silver dollar in Good 4 condition, which means it is just barely recognizable, is worth about $275. An example in Uncirculated 65 is $85,000. If you have one in Average Circulated 12 condition it could be worth about $425. Of course, you coin is worth whatever you can get for it, so these prices are just a reference, but they can be used for insurance purposes.