1873 Trade Dollar
Base
About This Coin
The 1873 Trade Dollar is a United States dollar from the Trade Dollars 1873-1885 series — the first year of the series. The Philadelphia, Carson City and San Francisco Mints struck 1,225,000 trade dollars dated 1873, including 865 proofs. The obverse shows Liberty seated on bales of goods and facing left, an olive branch in her outstretched hand and a sheaf of wheat behind her, and the reverse shows an eagle holding three arrows and an olive branch above the inscription 420 GRAINS, 900 FINE. First year of the Trade Dollar, authorized under the Coinage Act of 1873 to compete with the Mexican peso in Asian silver markets. At 420 grains, it was deliberately heavier than the standard silver dollar. Struck in 90% silver, 10% copper, weighing 27.22 grams, 38.1 mm in diameter, with a reeded edge. Designed by William Barber.
Value Estimates
Values as of May 2026 across all of this coin's strike types, from published price guides and, in some cases, recorded auction sales. For most coins the range runs from a well-worn example (around G-4) to an uncirculated one, but individual coins can sell for more or less depending on grade, eye appeal and demand. Compare recent sales of similar coins for a closer estimate.
Specifications
Strike Types & Varieties(4)
1873 (CC) Trade Dollar
1873 (S) Trade Dollar
1873 Proof Trade Dollar
1873 Trade Dollar
Other Base Coins in This Series
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