Coin Snapshot
- Weight: 26.73 grams
- Composition: 89.24% silver, 10.76% copper
- Diameter: 38.1 mm
- Thickness: Varies
- Years Minted: 1836-1839
- Designed by: Christian Gobrecht
- Total Coins Struck: 1,900 (all varieties)
Brief Overview of Gobrecht Dollars
Though not as widely minted as other US Silver Dollars like the Morgan or Peace Dollar, the Gobrecht Dollar represents a pivotal moment in the history of U.S. coinage. Designed by Christian Gobrecht and minted from 1836 to 1839, the coin marked the U.S. Mint’s transition to more modern designs and minting techniques. Although not intended for widespread circulation, the Gobrecht Dollar was the precursor to the Seated Liberty Dollar series and is cherished among collectors for its artistic beauty and historical significance.
The Gobrecht Dollar stands out for its intricate design, including the famous image of Liberty seated on a rock, which would later become a mainstay of U.S. silver coinage. Despite its short production run and limited mintage numbers, the Gobrecht Dollar has become a symbol of innovation in American numismatics. Today, it is highly sought after by collectors due to its rarity, historical importance, and the artistry of its design.
Gobrecht Dollar Obverse Design
The obverse of the Gobrecht Dollar, designed by Christian Gobrecht, features a stunning depiction of Liberty seated on a rock, draped in flowing robes. Liberty holds a staff with a liberty cap, symbolizing freedom, while her other hand rests on a shield inscribed with the word “LIBERTY.” This design reflected the neoclassical art style popular at the time, as well as America’s ideals of independence and strength.
The obverse design was groundbreaking in its artistry and would go on to influence U.S. coinage for decades, appearing on the Seated Liberty Dollar, half dollars, and quarters. The date of issue appears at the bottom of the coin, though some varieties also include Gobrecht’s name at the base, adding to the uniqueness of the series.
Gobrecht Dollar Reverse Design
The reverse of the Gobrecht Dollar depicts a majestic soaring eagle, symbolizing the United States’ growing power and ambition. This eagle design varied slightly between different years of the coin’s production, with some versions showing the eagle flying upwards in flight and others depicting it soaring horizontally across the sky. The inscription “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and “ONE DOLLAR” surround the eagle on the reverse.
The reverse design is unique in that it reflects a more dynamic depiction of the eagle compared to earlier static designs used on U.S. coinage. This was one of the key artistic innovations of the Gobrecht Dollar, and the reverse is considered one of the most beautiful eagle depictions in U.S. numismatics.
Mint Locations and Mintmarks on the Gobrecht Dollar
The Gobrecht Dollar was exclusively struck at the Philadelphia Mint, which at the time was the nation’s only mint. Therefore, no Gobrecht Dollars bear a mintmark, as was standard practice for coins produced in Philadelphia during that era. Despite the lack of mintmarks, Gobrecht Dollars are highly prized for their connection to the Philadelphia Mint’s early history and its role in American coinage innovation.
As the Philadelphia Mint was responsible for all coin production in the U.S. during this period, the Gobrecht Dollar represents the pinnacle of the Mint’s output in terms of artistry and craftsmanship. Each coin is a testament to the Mint’s efforts to modernize U.S. coinage, both in terms of design and minting techniques.
History of the Gobrecht Dollar
The Gobrecht Dollar emerged from the U.S. Mint’s desire to reintroduce silver dollar coinage after the long hiatus following the cessation of the Flowing Hair and Draped Bust dollar. By the early 1830s, there was renewed interest in producing a dollar coin that reflected the growing status of the United States. Mint Director Samuel Moore tasked Chief Engraver Christian Gobrecht with creating a design that would embody the nation’s aspirations.
Gobrecht’s design for the dollar coin was first struck in 1836, with production continuing through 1839. The coin was not produced in large quantities and was initially intended more as a pattern coin to test new designs and production methods. However, some Gobrecht Dollars were released into circulation, while others were retained by the U.S. Mint and used in diplomatic and governmental contexts.
The limited mintage of the Gobrecht Dollar, combined with its importance as a test piece for later U.S. silver dollars, makes it a critical part of U.S. numismatic history. The coin’s innovative designs, including the seated Liberty and soaring eagle, laid the groundwork for future U.S. coin designs, most notably the Seated Liberty Dollar.
Gobrecht Dollar Varieties
The Gobrecht Dollar series is known for its several design varieties, which are of great interest to collectors. These varieties largely relate to the orientation and appearance of the eagle on the reverse, as well as minor differences in the placement of Christian Gobrecht’s name on the coin.
Flying Eagle (1836)
The earliest Gobrecht Dollars, struck in 1836, feature a dramatic image of a flying eagle, soaring upward in a diagonal motion. These coins are notable for the inclusion of Gobrecht’s name on the base of the coin. This early version is highly sought after due to its distinct eagle design, which sets it apart from later Gobrecht Dollars.
Soaring Eagle (1837-1839)
The Gobrecht Dollars struck between 1837 and 1839 feature a more horizontal version of the soaring eagle. This design was intended to give the eagle a more lifelike appearance as it flies across the sky. Additionally, some of the later coins omit Gobrecht’s name, which is a key identifying factor for numismatists studying this series. Both the 1837 and 1839 versions are popular among collectors for their elegant reverse design and historical importance.
These design changes reflect the Mint’s experimentation during this period, as officials worked to refine both the aesthetic and technical aspects of U.S. coinage. The Gobrecht Dollar’s varieties offer a fascinating glimpse into the evolution of U.S. coin designs during the mid-19th century.
Gobrecht Dollar Prices and Values
The value of a Gobrecht Dollar varies widely depending on its year, variety, and condition. Given the coin’s low mintage and rarity, even lower-grade examples command high prices at auction. Gobrecht Dollars in circulated condition can sell for tens of thousands of dollars, while those in mint state or proof-like condition often reach six-figure sums.
Coins from 1836 with the “flying eagle” design and Gobrecht’s name on the base tend to be more valuable due to their rarity and status as the earliest examples in the series. Similarly, proof strikes of the 1837 and 1839 Gobrecht Dollars are highly coveted by collectors and can fetch substantial prices. The highest-quality examples, particularly those with sharp details and minimal wear, are considered numismatic treasures.
Examples of Rare and Expensive Gobrecht Dollars
- 1836 Flying Eagle Gobrecht Dollar (Proof): Known for its dramatic eagle design and high relief, this variety is among the most valuable Gobrecht Dollars. Proof examples in high grades can sell for well over $100,000 at auction.
- 1837 Gobrecht Dollar (Proof): This variety, with the horizontal soaring eagle, is highly prized by collectors. High-grade proofs from 1837 often reach six-figure prices due to their rarity and artistry.
- 1839 Gobrecht Dollar: As one of the last Gobrecht Dollars struck, the 1839 version with the soaring eagle is also valuable, especially in high-grade proof condition.
Gobrecht Dollar Condition and Certification
Due to the rarity and value of the Gobrecht Dollar, certification by professional grading services like PCGS or NGC is essential for both buyers and sellers. Most Gobrecht Dollars that appear at auction are carefully graded and certified, ensuring their authenticity and providing an objective assessment of their condition.
High-grade Gobrecht Dollars, particularly those in proof or mint state, are exceptionally valuable. Even circulated examples, given their rarity, can command significant prices. Collectors seeking the best examples should prioritize certified coins to ensure they are acquiring authentic, high-quality pieces. Certification also protects the coin’s value by providing assurance of its grade and condition.
Buying Gobrecht Dollars Online
Given their rarity and historical importance, Gobrecht Dollars are primarily available through high-end auctions and specialized dealers. Collectors interested in purchasing a Gobrecht Dollar should focus on working with reputable auction houses such as Heritage Auctions or Stack’s Bowers Galleries. These platforms often feature Gobrecht Dollars in a range of conditions, from circulated to proof.
Certified coins are recommended for collectors looking to invest in a Gobrecht Dollar. Professional certification ensures that the coin is authentic and accurately graded, which is especially important when dealing with such valuable pieces. Coins sold by reputable dealers or at major auctions often come with detailed provenance, adding further assurance to the buyer.
Though Gobrecht Dollars are out of reach for many casual collectors due to their high price and rarity, they remain one of the most significant coins in U.S. numismatics. Owning a Gobrecht Dollar is not just an investment in a rare coin; it is a connection to a formative period in American history and the evolution of U.S. coinage.