1881 Trade Dollar
Base
About This Coin
The 1881 Trade Dollar is a United States dollar from the Trade Dollars 1873-1885 series. The Philadelphia Mint struck 960 proof trade dollars dated 1881, and no business strikes. 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. Struck during the Gilded Age of rapid industrialization and the great silver debates, when monetary policy shaped elections and economic destiny. 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
Value as of May 2026, from the one price recorded for this coin. Actual sales can differ. Compare recent sales of similar coins for a closer estimate.
Specifications
Strike Types & Varieties(1)
Other Base Coins in This Series
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