The 1900 Lafayette Dollar is a famous commemorative coin with a rich history. It stands out for being the first U.S. commemorative dollar coin, the first to feature a U.S. citizen, and one of the most sought-after coins in numismatics. In this guide, we’ll break down the history, design, varieties, and market data of this rare coin in an easy-to-understand way, using simple English.
History of the Lafayette Dollar
The Lafayette Dollar was made in 1900 to honor the friendship between the United States and France. This coin was part of a fundraising effort to build a monument for the Marquis de Lafayette, a French hero who played a significant role in helping the U.S. during its fight for independence. The monument was built near the Louvre in Paris, France.
The coin was authorized by Congress on March 3, 1899, and the U.S. Mint produced it on December 14, 1899, which was exactly 100 years after the death of President George Washington. This coin is unique because it features the busts of both Lafayette and Washington.
Key Features of the Lafayette Dollar
- First U.S. commemorative dollar coin
- First coin to feature a U.S. citizen (George Washington)
- Only silver dollar in the classic commemorative series
Design of the Lafayette Dollar
The design of the 1900 Lafayette Dollar was created by Charles E. Barber, who was the Chief Engraver of the U.S. Mint at the time.
Coin Details:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Obverse Design | Busts of George Washington and Marquis de Lafayette |
| Reverse Design | Lafayette on horseback |
| Designer | Charles E. Barber |
| Weight | 26.73 grams |
| Diameter | 38.10 mm |
| Alloy | 90% silver, 10% copper |
| Edge | Reeded |
The obverse of the coin features the busts of George Washington and Lafayette side by side. Washington’s bust was modeled after a sculpture made by French artist Jean-Antoine Houdon, while Lafayette’s image was based on a French medal.
The reverse shows Lafayette on a horse, inspired by the design of a monument created by Paul Bartlett, a New York-based artist. This reverse side honors Lafayette’s important role in both French and American history.
Varieties of the Lafayette Dollar
There are several varieties of the Lafayette Dollar, each slightly different based on the die used to strike the coin. These varieties were first noticed in 1925, and additional varieties were discovered in 1980 and 1988.
Known Varieties:
| Variety Name | Discovered By | Year of Discovery |
|---|---|---|
| 1A, 1B | George H. Clapp | 1925 |
| 2C | George H. Clapp | 1925 |
| 3D | George H. Clapp | 1925 |
| 1C | Anthony Swiatek | 1980 |
| 4E | Frank DuVall | 1988 |
These varieties are classified by the combination of different obverse (front) and reverse (back) dies used during production. Collectors pay attention to these details to identify rare and valuable versions of the coin.
Market Data and Value
The value of the Lafayette Dollar has increased over time due to its rarity and historical significance. Initially, the coin was sold for $2 each, but today, the coin can fetch thousands of dollars depending on its condition and rarity.
Noteworthy Sales:
| Grade | Auction House | Sale Date | Sale Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| PCGS MS63 | Stack’s Bowers | August 31, 2022 | $1,440 |
| PCGS MS67 CAC | Stack’s Bowers | March 20, 2020 | $60,000 |
| PCGS MS67+ CAC | GreatCollections | September 25, 2022 | $90,000 |
As you can see, the value of these coins can range from a few hundred dollars to over $90,000 for high-grade versions.
Conclusion
The 1900 Lafayette Dollar is a unique and historical piece of American coinage. It marks several “firsts” in U.S. Mint history and continues to be highly valued by collectors. Whether you’re interested in its design, history, or investment potential, the Lafayette Dollar is a fascinating piece of American and French heritage.
FAQ’s
Why is the 1900 Lafayette Dollar significant?
The 1900 Lafayette Dollar is important because it was the first U.S. commemorative dollar coin and the first to feature a U.S. citizen (George Washington). It was created to honor the Marquis de Lafayette’s contribution to the American Revolution and symbolize U.S.-France relations.
How much is a 1900 Lafayette Dollar worth today?
The value of a 1900 Lafayette Dollar varies based on its condition and rarity. Lower-grade coins may be worth a few hundred dollars, while high-grade versions, such as PCGS MS67+ CAC, have sold for up to $90,000.
How many varieties of the Lafayette Dollar exist?
There are several known varieties of the Lafayette Dollar, with differences based on the dies used during production. These varieties were discovered between 1925 and 1988, adding to the coin’s uniqueness and collectability.