Expert: PAPAJACK - 7/23/2007

Question
I have acquired 27 coins while working abroad.  they are in very good condition for the most part and I am having a problem finding their value.  I have 2 1800 silver dollars and five 1845's.  The most interesting coin that I have is a 1870 trade dollar with a minting error.  the "O" and first "L" in dollar appear out of place and the 420 mark and the three arrow tips from the eagles talon appear over it.  could you help me find their values?

Answer
Hello Al,                        

Are all these U.S. Silver dollars?
There are too many variables to list here for you but borrow or buy a copy of "A Guide Book of UNITED STATES COINS" (Blue book for dealers or Red Book for collectors) by R. S. YEOMAN. It details all the accepted verities of coins in the proof sets and gives values for them as well. It is issued every year.
This book is for all US coins and will help you classify your collection and separate out any coins you need more information on. Break your collection down into groups to tackle the job easier.

-2 1800 silver dollars
There were 6 verities on these coins. The dies were made by hand each one is different.
They start about $300 to over $1100 each in circulated grades.

-Five 1845 Seated Liberty Dollar
They start about $200 to over $800 each in circulated grades.

-1870 trade dollar with a minting error.  the "O" and first "L" in dollar appear out of place and the 420 mark and the three arrow tips from the eagles talon appear over it.

You must double check the date on this coin!
There were no trade dollars made until 1873. The Seated liberty type was used until 1873 and was made at 4 different mints. The mint mark (if any) is on the reverse below the eagle. These start about $100 to over $400 each in circulated grades.
Seated Dollars did not have the word dollar spelled out nor did they state the purity of the coin silver.

These coins have known counterfeit copies being traded as collectables so yours are best looked at by a professional dealer.  

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Thank You and Good Luck

PapaJack