1885 Trade Dollar
Base
About This Coin
The 1885 Trade Dollar is a United States dollar from the Trade Dollars 1873-1885 series — the final year of the series. In 1885, coins were struck at the Philadelphia Mint with a combined mintage of 5. This represents the lowest annual mintage in the entire series, below the series median of 1,987. The obverse features Liberty seated facing left, holding an olive branch extended to the viewer, with a sheaf of wheat behind and the reverse displays an eagle perched on a bale of goods, with an olive branch and three arrows. Only 5 examples are known, making the 1885 Trade Dollar one of the most legendary rarities in American numismatics. Like the 1884, these were struck without official authorization. Struck in 90% silver, 10% copper, weighing 27.2 grams, 38.1 mm in diameter, with a reeded edge. Estimated market value across variants is approximately $1840K. A notable auction result reached $3960K in PR66 grade at Heritage Auctions. Designed by William Barber.
Value Estimates
Values as of May 2026 — range across all strike types, reflecting typical grades (G-4 through MS-63). Coins in lower or exceptional grades may fall outside this range.
Specifications
Strike Types & Varieties(1)
Other Base Coins in This Series
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