John Adams $1 Coin Value: How to Asses?

The 1797 to 1801 John Adams coin is part of the Presidential $1 Coin Program, launched in 2007 to honor former U.S. presidents. Its face value is a modest one dollar, but some variations and errors can significantly increase its worth. 

If you own one, you might be sitting on a valuable piece of numismatic history. But how much is it really worth? 

Today we are going to explore its history, composition, coin value checker​, and John Adams coin value, including mint mark variations and rare errors that can make certain specimens far more valuable than others.

Numismatic Description of the John Adams 1 Dollar Coin

Historical Background

John Adams was the second president of the United States who served from 1797 to 1801. His presidency followed George Washington’s, and he played a crucial role in shaping early American governance. 

To commemorate his contributions, the U.S. Mint included him in the Presidential $1 Coin Program in 2007 (it also includes James Madison $1 coins). This initiative aimed to honor every U.S. president by issuing golden dollars, though they contain no real gold.

The series faced a production halt in 2012 due to a surplus of unwanted dollars. However, the John Adams gold coin value remains interesting for many collectors, particularly for rare John Adams dollar coin errors and uncirculated specimens.

Design & Composition

It features a right-facing portrait of Adams. Notably, the obverse includes the engraver’s initials, “J.I.” for Joel Iskowitz and “CLV” for Charles L. Vickers. The reverse side shows the Statue of Liberty, a signature element of the Presidential $1 Coin Series.

The edge lettering is a distinguishing feature, as the John Adams piece has two versions: Position A (where inscriptions read correctly with the obverse facing up) and Position B (where inscriptions appear upside-down when the obverse is up). Errors in this lettering significantly impact the John Adams dollar coin value 1797 to 1801.

How Much Is a John Adams Dollar Coin Worth?

Disclaimer: The values fluctuate based on market demand and condition. Always get professional appraisal before selling.

Mintmark Descriptions

2007 P (Philadelphia Mint)

The Philadelphia Mint produced 112,420,000 of these coins. The 2007 P John Adams dollar coin value is typically around $1 in circulated condition, but uncirculated examples graded MS60-MS64 can fetch between $3 and $18. High-grade examples, such as an MS64 specimen, have sold for $2,300 at auction.

The Philadelphia-minted specimens do not carry a visible “P” on the obverse or reverse but feature the edge inscription typical of Presidential dollars. Edge lettering errors significantly increase the John Adams one dollar coin value.

2007 D (Denver Mint)

The Denver Mint struck 112,140,000 John Adams dollars in 2007. Like their Philadelphia counterparts, most John Adams dollar coin value 2007 D are worth $1 in circulation. However, uncirculated ones in MS60-MS64 can range from $3 to $12, while an MS68 specimen sold for $69 in 2008.

Denver-minted pieces can be identified by the “D” mint mark, found on the edge lettering. Certain rare errors from the Denver Mint, such as missing or double-stamped lettering, can increase the 2007 John Adams dollar coin value significantly.

Related article: 1971 Eisenhower Dollar Value.

2007 S Proof (San Francisco Mint)

Proof versions of the John Adams dollar were minted exclusively at San Francisco, with a total mintage of 3,965,989. These were not intended for circulation and exhibit a highly polished, mirror-like finish.

The John Adams dollar coin value 2007 S proof varies by grade:

• PF67: $5

• PF69: $12

• PF70: $30

A PF70 specimen once sold for $127 in an auction - one of the highest-priced proof pieces of this series with such a high 1 dollar coin John Adams value 1797 to 1801.

Unlike circulating pieces, proof ones feature an “S” mint mark on the edge, indicating their San Francisco origin. Their highly reflective surfaces and deep cameo contrast make them a favorite among collectors.

Errors & Rare Variants

Some rare John Adams 1797 to 1801 coin value errors make them particularly desirable. One of the most famous errors is the double-edge lettering overlap, where the inscriptions appear twice on the edge. This error can push values up to $288 for high-grade specimens.

Another example is the double-edge lettering inverted error, where the second inscription is upside-down compared to the first. In mint condition, such one can sell for $15 to $52, with the highest known sale reaching $489.

A missing edge lettering error is particularly valuable, as it lacks inscriptions altogether. High-grade versions of this type of John Adams 1 dollar coin worth between $30 and $46, with an auction record of $3,335 in 2009.

Attention: Do not miss this one with the 2008 John Quincy Adams dollar coin value 1825 to 1829!

Should You Check Your Piece?

If you have a John Adams dollar coin 1797 to 1801 worth checking, you might be in for a surprise! While standard circulation ones are not particularly valuable, rare varieties, uncirculated coins and mint errors can bring in impressive sums.

To accurately assess your coin’s worth, consider using a Coin ID Scanner app to identify errors and authenticate conditions before selling or adding it to your collection.

FAQs

1. How can I tell if my John Adams dollar is valuable?

The value depends on several factors, e.g., its mint mark, condition and any errors it may have. Those in uncirculated condition (graded MS60 or higher) or those with edge lettering errors tend to be the most valuable. Checking for missing, doubled or inverted lettering on the edge can significantly increase the worth.

2. Are John Adams dollar coins made of real gold?

No, despite their golden appearance, they are not made of real gold. They are composed of 88.5% copper, 6% zinc, 3.5% manganese, and 2% nickel. The outer layer’s manganese-brass alloy gives them a gold-like sheen, but they contain no precious metals.

3. Where can I sell my John Adams dollar?

You can sell it at local coin dealers, online marketplaces like eBay, or specialized numismatic auction houses. For high-value or rare error examples, professional grading from agencies like PCGS or NGC can increase buyer confidence and help secure a higher price. 

Sources:

1. https://www.blanchardgold.com/market-news/rare-john-adams-dollar-coin

2. https://nationwidecoins.com/blogs/news/the-john-adams-dollar-coin-value