The 1881 James Garfield dollar coin is a fascinating piece of American history, combining presidential legacy, numismatic artistry, and collector appeal. This comprehensive guide explores the coin's background, features, and current market value, offering insights for both novice and experienced collectors.
Historical Context: James Garfield's Brief but Impactful Presidency
James A. Garfield, the 20th President of the United States, served one of the shortest presidencies in American history. Despite his brief tenure, Garfield left an indelible mark on the nation:
- Inaugurated: March 4, 1881
- Assassinated: July 2, 1881 (died September 19, 1881)
- Total days in office: 200
Garfield's presidency, though short-lived, was marked by:
- Strong stance against political corruption
- Advocacy for civil rights and education reform
- Efforts to strengthen the U.S. Navy
The 1881 James Garfield Dollar Coin: Design and Specifications
Obverse Design
- Portrait of James Garfield facing right
- Inscription: "JAMES GARFIELD"
- Date: 1881
Reverse Design
- Heraldic eagle with shield
- Olive branch and arrows in talons
- Inscriptions: "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" and "ONE DOLLAR"
Technical Specifications
- Composition: 90% silver, 10% copper
- Weight: 26.73 grams
- Diameter: 38.1 mm
- Edge: Reeded
Mintage and Rarity
The 1881 James Garfield dollar coin was minted at three locations, each producing different quantities:
| Mint Location | Mintage | Mint Mark |
|---|---|---|
| Philadelphia | 8,900,000 | None |
| San Francisco | 12,760,000 | S |
| New Orleans | 5,708,000 | O |
While these mintage figures may seem high, many coins were melted down over the years, making well-preserved specimens relatively scarce today.
Grading the James Garfield Dollar Coin
The value of an 1881 James Garfield dollar coin heavily depends on its condition. Numismatists use the Sheldon Scale to grade coins from 1 (Poor) to 70 (Perfect Uncirculated). Key grades include:
- MS-65 to MS-70: Gem Uncirculated to Perfect Uncirculated
- MS-60 to MS-64: Uncirculated with minor imperfections
- AU-50 to AU-58: About Uncirculated with slight wear
- XF-40 to XF-45: Extremely Fine with light wear on high points
- VF-20 to VF-35: Very Fine with moderate wear
Current Market Values
The value of an 1881 James Garfield dollar coin varies significantly based on mint mark, condition, and unique characteristics. Here's a detailed guide to current market values:
Philadelphia (No Mint Mark)
| Grade | Value Range |
|---|---|
| Good to Very Good | $30 – $50 |
| Fine to Very Fine | $60 – $100 |
| Extremely Fine | $150 – $250 |
| About Uncirculated | $300 – $500 |
| MS-60 to MS-63 | $600 – $1,500 |
| MS-64 to MS-65 | $2,000 – $5,000+ |
San Francisco (S)
| Grade | Value Range |
|---|---|
| Good to Very Good | $35 – $60 |
| Fine to Very Fine | $70 – $120 |
| Extremely Fine | $180 – $300 |
| About Uncirculated | $350 – $600 |
| MS-60 to MS-63 | $700 – $2,000 |
| MS-64 to MS-65 | $2,500 – $7,000+ |
New Orleans (O)
| Grade | Value Range |
|---|---|
| Good to Very Good | $40 – $70 |
| Fine to Very Fine | $80 – $150 |
| Extremely Fine | $200 – $350 |
| About Uncirculated | $400 – $700 |
| MS-60 to MS-63 | $800 – $2,500 |
| MS-64 to MS-65 | $3,000 – $10,000+ |
Factors Affecting Value
Several factors influence the value of an 1881 James Garfield dollar coin beyond its basic grade:
- Mint Mark: New Orleans (O) mint coins are generally rarer and more valuable.
- Toning: Natural, attractive toning can increase a coin's value significantly.
- Strike Quality: Well-struck coins with sharp details command higher prices.
- Preservation: Coins free from cleaning or other damage are more desirable.
- Provenance: A documented history of ownership can add substantial value.
Notable Sales and Record Prices
To illustrate the potential value of high-quality specimens, here are some notable auction results:
- 2019: An 1881-S James Garfield dollar graded MS-67 sold for $18,000.
- 2020: An 1881-O specimen graded MS-65+ DMPL (Deep Mirror Prooflike) realized $28,200.
- 2018: The record for an 1881 Philadelphia mint coin stands at $32,900 for an MS-67 example.
Collecting Strategies
For collectors interested in the 1881 James Garfield dollar coin, consider these approaches:
- Type Collection: Acquire one example of each mint mark (P, S, O).
- Condition Rarity: Focus on the highest grade examples within your budget.
- Variety Hunting: Look for known die varieties and errors, such as doubled dies or repunched mint marks.
- Toned Coin Collection: Seek out specimens with attractive natural toning.
Expert Tips for Buyers
As a seasoned US coin collecting expert, I recommend the following tips for those in the market for an 1881 James Garfield dollar coin:
- Invest in quality: Higher grade coins tend to appreciate more over time and are easier to resell.
- Verify authenticity: Purchase from reputable dealers or consider slabbed coins from PCGS or NGC.
- Study the market: Regularly monitor auction results and price guides to understand fair market values.
- Inspect closely: Look for signs of cleaning, damage, or repair that could affect value. Use a loupe or magnifying glass to examine details.
- Consider eye appeal: Sometimes a coin's aesthetic quality can trump its technical grade in terms of desirability.
Preservation and Care
To maintain the value of your 1881 James Garfield dollar coin:
- Handle with care: Use cotton gloves and hold coins by the edges to avoid leaving fingerprints.
- Store properly: Use archival-quality holders in a cool, dry environment with stable humidity.
- Avoid cleaning: Never clean your coins as it can significantly reduce their value and appeal to collectors.
- Insurance: Consider insuring valuable specimens as part of your overall coin collection.
The Future of the 1881 James Garfield Dollar Coin
As an expert in US coin collecting, I believe the value of the 1881 James Garfield dollar coin is likely to appreciate over time due to several factors:
- Increasing historical interest in lesser-known presidents and their legacies
- Growing scarcity as coins are lost, damaged, or enter permanent collections
- Rising precious metal values, particularly silver
- General trend of appreciation in rare and historically significant coins
Conclusion: A Numismatic Gem with Enduring Appeal
The 1881 James Garfield dollar coin represents more than just its silver content; it's a tangible connection to a pivotal moment in American history. This coin offers a unique blend of historical significance, artistic merit, and investment potential that appeals to both collectors and history enthusiasts.
As you explore the world of the 1881 James Garfield dollar coin, remember that each specimen tells a story—not just of a president whose time was cut tragically short, but of the era that produced it and the journey it has taken over the past 140 years.
Whether you're a seasoned numismatist or a curious newcomer, the James Garfield dollar coin offers an opportunity to own a piece of American history. Its rarity, combined with its historical significance and the artistry of 19th-century coinage, makes it a valuable addition to any collection.
As you hold one of these coins, you're not just holding a piece of metal, but a slice of history that continues to captivate collectors and serve as a testament to the enduring legacy of America's 20th president. The 1881 James Garfield dollar coin stands as a numismatic treasure, waiting to be discovered and appreciated by future generations of collectors.
