1804 Dollar Tribute – 1 Troy Ounce .999 Fine Silver Round
A famous date conceals an unexpected story. The 1804 Dollar is among the great rarities of American numismatics, yet the coins bearing that date were made decades later. This domed-die silver art medal celebrates the historic design in a one-ounce, 39mm format.
The Dollar Made for Diplomacy
In the 1830s, the United States prepared special coin sets as official gifts for foreign rulers. The Jackson administration wanted the sets to demonstrate the nation’s coinage, and the Mint produced newly struck dollars carrying the date 1804 for inclusion in them.
The Smithsonian records eight examples of this original group, now called Class I dollars. Later issues added further chapters to the story, helping make the date a celebrated subject of numismatic research. One particularly famous presentation set was given to the King of Siam in 1836, linking the coin with the history of American diplomacy and trade.
The result is a coin whose inscription and actual production belong to different moments in history. This modern tribute invites collectors to enjoy that remarkable story and the early American design without confusing the round with an original 1804 dollar.
Obverse Design
Lady Liberty faces right, with LIBERTY above and 1804 below. Thirteen stars surround the portrait, seven to the left and six to the right, recalling the original colonies. The balanced arrangement gives the central bust room to stand out within the circular field.
Reverse Design
A heraldic eagle spreads its wings beneath thirteen stars and a band of clouds. An olive branch and arrows accompany the eagle, while a flowing ribbon bears E PLURIBUS UNUM. UNITED STATES OF AMERICA follows the outer circumference, and the hallmark appears along the bottom.
Specifications
- Weight: 1 troy ounce
- Purity: .999 fine silver
- Diameter: 39mm
- Thickness: 3.10mm
- Edge: Reeded
- Finish: Brilliant Uncirculated
- Format: Domed-die silver art medal
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