1878 Proof Trade Dollar
Strike Type
Coin Details
Value Estimates
Values as of May 2026 — estimates reflect typical grades (G-4 through MS-67). Coins in lower or exceptional grades may fall outside this range.
Auction Record
$120,750 PR68 01-02-2006 Superior Galleries
Description
The 1878 Proof Trade Dollar is a proof dollar struck at the Philadelphia Mint, part of the Trade Dollars 1873-1885 series. With a mintage of only 900, this is an extremely rare issue. The obverse features Liberty seated facing left, holding an olive branch extended to the viewer, with a sheaf of wheat behind, while the reverse displays an eagle perched on a bale of goods, with an olive branch and three arrows. Designed by William Barber. Struck in 90% silver, 10% copper, weighing 27.2 grams, 38.1 mm in diameter, with a reeded edge. Cataloged as PCGS #7058. The Trade Dollar was created specifically for commerce with Asia, designed to compete with the Mexican peso in the silver markets of China and Japan. Proof-only dates from 1879-1885 include the legendary 1884 and 1885 Trade Dollars, known only in proof. The 1878-CC is scarce. Chopmarked examples (bearing Asian merchants' stamps) are collected as a separate specialty.
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