A Jefferson Error Coin Without 'In God We Trust': Value and Sale Tips

Did you know that the motto 'In God We Trust' first appeared on US coins in 1864? This was seven years before the German Empire inscribed the motto 'Gott mit uns' on the rim of their 20 mark gold coins. The use of 'In God We Trust' on US currency was a significant milestone in American numismatics, although it was initially a foreign concept to many Americans in the late 19th century.

Jefferson Coin Value

In your collection, you might have encountered a Thomas Jefferson presidential coin that says '1801' on the front and lacks the motto 'In God We Trust.' If that coin looks like the one below right, it is part of the Presidential Dollar Coin series minted in 2007. Over 203 million of these coins were produced that year alone, making them not particularly collectible. They are worth a dollar as a dollar coin.

These coins are intended for circulation and are not collectible. The minting of such coins is part of a larger series that began in 2007, featuring different presidents on the obverse side. If you need to use the coin, it is best to use it rather than hoard it.

Selling Collectible Coins

When it comes to selling coins that were not minted for circulation, or which are collectible coins, the process can be more complex. For instance, if you have a coin like the one mentioned, it might be a mint error coin. First, identify the type of coin you have, as it will determine its value.

One option for selling coins is to take them to a coin dealer. Coin dealers specialize in the buying and selling of rare and valuable coins, and they can provide you with an accurate assessment of your coin's value. If the coin is valuable, you could get a significant amount for it, but if it is not, you may get less than you might hope.

For the Thomas Jefferson coin with the '1801' inscription, it is important to recognize that it is a presiding over circulating US currency. If you have a similar older coin, such as one from 1801, the value can vary widely based on the mintage, rarity, and condition. Some coins might be worth several hundred dollars or more, depending on their specific characteristics.

Common Errors in Jefferson Coins

There are instances where Jefferson coins can appear with errors, such as the absence of ‘In God We Trust’ or a broken design. These errors can add significant value to the coin, as collectors often seek out these variations. For instance, the three cent nickel minted in 1865, with its unique design, can be worth much more than its face value if it is in good condition.

Take, for example, a personal story about a coin discovered by the author as a child. A coin with three bars on it and a date of 1865 was found in his Grandparents' ashtray. The coin was badly scratched, but its age (over 100 years old in the 1970s) made it intriguing. When the coin was evaluated by a coin dealer in Toronto, it was determined to be a three cent nickel. It was not particularly rare, but it could be worth up to $30 in mint condition.

Where to Sell Your Coin

Studying the characteristics of your coin is the first step. Once identified, you can then seek out the right place to sell it. Here are a few options:

Online Auctions: Websites like eBay, Amazon, and Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC) offer online platforms for selling coins. Local Coin Dealers: Check your local coin shops where you can bring your coin for an immediate evaluation and sale. Stalls at Coin Shows: If there are coin shows in your area, these can be a great place to sell your coin, especially if you need a quick sale.

It's also important to keep in mind that not every coin can be sold for a profit. Sometimes, it is more valuable to treat the coin as a keepsake or family heirloom, preserving its memory for future generations.

By understanding the value of your Jefferson coin and its market, you can make an informed decision about how to proceed. Whether you choose to sell it or keep it, it is an exciting journey into the world of numismatics.