Between 2007 and 2011, the U.S. Mint introduced a series of commemorative dollar coins honoring past presidents. While most remain at face value, certain rare examples with unique characteristics or errors have become sought-after by collectors. Let’s explore which ones have become the most valuable and why they stand out.
1. 2007-D George Washington Dollar – First Day of Issue, MS67 ($475)
The first presidential dollar was released on February 15, 2007, featuring George Washington. Coins designated as “First Day of Issue” (FDI) were submitted to grading agencies the same day they were released. While over 163 million were minted in Denver and even more in Philadelphia, only a few top-graded FDI coins exist. Two examples graded MS67 by PCGS are each estimated at $475 due to their rarity and pristine condition.
2. 2007 George Washington Dollar – Missing Edge Lettering, MS68 ($4,250)
Some early Washington dollars were mistakenly released without edge inscriptions, including the mintmark, date, and motto “In God We Trust.” Known colloquially as the “Godless Dollar,” the most pristine examples, graded MS68, are currently valued at up to $4,250. Their rarity in such high condition makes them prized collector items.
3. 2007 Thomas Jefferson Dollar – Missing Edge Lettering, MS68 ($6,500)
Another 2007 error occurred on the Thomas Jefferson dollar, which also lacked edge lettering. While MS66 examples sold for over $1,700 shortly after discovery, their value has since decreased due to increased supply. However, a lone MS68 example remains highly desirable and is valued at $6,500.
4. 2007 James Madison Dollar – Missing Edge Lettering, MS67 ($4,000)
This dollar coin honoring the fourth president also experienced edge lettering omissions. In mint state, values start around $70 but increase significantly with grade. A single MS67 example currently holds an estimated value of $4,000.
5. 2008 John Quincy Adams Dollar – Missing Edge Lettering, MS68 ($425)
Released in 2008, the John Quincy Adams dollar followed a similar error trend. Although not as rare as others, an MS68 version of this error coin is still valued at $425 due to its condition and lower mintage numbers compared to earlier presidential errors.
6. 2008-D Andrew Jackson Dollar – Position A, MS67 ($370)
Andrew Jackson’s dollar featured two orientation variants due to edge lettering: Position A (upside down when heads is up) and Position B. MS67 examples of the rarer Position A, especially from the Denver Mint, are worth about $370.
7. 2008 Andrew Jackson Dollar – Satin Finish, Missing Edge Lettering, SP69 ($1,000)
Special collector versions of the Jackson dollar were minted with a satin finish. Two of these are known to exist in near-perfect SP69 grade and are also missing edge inscriptions. These rare combinations elevate their value to around $1,000.
Conclusion: Are Presidential Dollars Worth Collecting?
Most presidential dollar coins in circulated condition hold no more than face value. But flawless condition, unique errors, or limited edition strikes can significantly increase their worth. If you suspect you have one of these rare examples, it might be time to get it professionally appraised.
FAQs
Are all presidential dollar coins worth more than $1?
No, most are only worth $1 unless they have errors, high grades, or special mint designations.
What is “missing edge lettering” on dollar coins?
It refers to coins that were mistakenly minted without inscriptions on the edge like the year, mint mark, or motto.
What does MS68 mean in coin grading?
MS68 is a coin grade indicating a near-flawless, mint state condition, making it highly collectible and valuable.
Can I find valuable presidential dollars in circulation?
It’s rare, but possible. Most valuable coins are uncirculated or have unique mint errors.