The John Adams dollar was issued in the United States in 2007 as part of the Presidential Dollar series. John Adams was the second president of the US, serving from 1797 to 1801. He was a key figure in the American Revolution and played an important role in the founding of the US.
This collectible dollar coin is a relatively low value coin, fetching just a few dollars up to approximately $10 in most cases. However, rare errors can raise the price considerably, placing these valuable coins in the hundreds or even thousands of dollars range. The highest auction record recorded in recent times was $3,335 in 2009!
Today, we’ll take a look at the identification features of a 2007 John Adams dollar coin, a value chart, a list of auction records, a brief guide on grading coins and a buying and selling guide for collectible coins.
John Adams Dollar: Background
The John Adams dollar coin was firs issued on 17th May 2007, making it the second in the Presidential Dollar series following the George Washington coin. The Presidental Dollar series were produced between 2007 and 2016, created with the intention of honoring the presidents of the US through featuring their portraits on dollar coins. This project also had the aim of educating the public about the presidents’ contribution to the country’s history.
The John Adams dollar was minted in Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco with a total mintage of 228,525,989! The coins were released into circulation through the Federal Reserve System, but due to the lack of popularity of the Presidential Dollar series, many of the coins were not widely circulated.
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John Adams Dollar: Identification
This collectible coin features a portrait of John Adams on the obverse along with the inscribed words “JOHN ADAMS” and “2nd PRESIDENT 1797-1801”. The obverse design was created by the US Mint engraver Don Everhart.
The reverse of the coin features an image of the Statue of Liberty, along with the words “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” AND “$1”. This design has been commonly used on many other presidential dollar coins and was designed by Joel Iskowitz.
This dollar coin has a diameter of 26.5 millimeters and a thickness of 2.0 millimeters. It’s size is similar to other modern US dollar coins such as the Sacagawea dollar. It weighs 8.1 grams and is composed of a copper core with a manganese-brass outer layer (88.5% Copper, 6% Zinc, 3.5% Manganese, 2% Nickel). This composition gives it a distinctive golden color and is used for many modern US dollar coins.
John Adams Dollar: Value Chart
As with all collectible coins, the value of a John Adams dollar coin depends on several vital factors including condition, rarity and demand among collectors. Please note that these are average values and accurate at the time of writing, based on the USA Coin Book, but are subject to change with changing market conditions. It is important to conduct thorough research in order to determine the current value of any coin.
| Type | Mintage | Circulated | Uncirculated | Proof |
| 2007 Philadelphia (no mint mark) | 112,420,000 | $1 | $1.25-$5.00 | $10-$30 |
| 2007 Denver (D mint mark) | 112,140,000 | $1 | $1.25-$5.00 | $10-$30 |
| 2007 San Francisco (S mint mark) | 3,965,989 | $1.50-$3.50 | $3.50-$10 | $20-$50 |
However, these values are not definitive and certain coins in exceptional condition or exhibiting a rare error can fetch much more at auction…
Auction Records
2007-P $1 John Adams Position A
In 2009, a 2007-P $1 John Adams Position A with MS64 grade sold for $2,300! It was struck twice on an aluminum feeder finger fragment, a rare error which contributed greatly to its high value.
2007-P $1 John Adams, Double Edge Lettering – Overlap
In February 2022 a 2007-P $1 John Adams with a double edge lettering overlap error sold for $288. There are 24 known coins with this error in existence.
2007-P First Day of Issue
In 2012 a 2007-P $1 1st Day of Issue dollar with a doubled edge inverted lettering error, graded at MS65 was sold for $220!
2007-P $1 John Adams, Doubled Edge Lettering, Inverted
In May 2008, just a year after its production this rare 2007-P $1 John Adams missing edge lettering error coin was sold for $489! The lettering was described as inverted and the population of this error coin is 34.
2007-P $1 Missing Edge Lettering
Topping our auction records today is the 2007-P $1 Presidential Dollar John Adams D/S on 9grs aluminum error coin. It sold for $3,335 in 2009!
2007-S $1 John Adams Proof Deep Cameo
The top auction record for a proof coin minted in San Francisco graded at PR70 with a deep cameo was $127 in 2008, less than one whole year after the issue of this coin.
Coin Grading: Brief Guide
Grading your own John Adams dollar coin can help you determine its value and make informed decisions about buying and selling. If you are in doubt or inexperienced in the art of coin grading, it is recommended to consult a reputable grading expert to get an accurate value for your coin. While this service will cost, it may be worth it as you will get a more accurate and therefore higher value at auction. However, if you want to try yourself, here are a few top tips on grading your own coins…
1. Examine the details
Look closely at the details of the coin, including the portrait of John Adams and the Statue of Liberty on the reverse. Check for any scratches, dents or other damage that may affect the coin’s value. Wear around the fine details such as Lady Liberty’s hair lead to a lower grade and can devalue a coin.
2. Check the edges
The edges of the John Adams dollar coin should be smooth and uniform. If there are any nicks, dings or other imperfections the coin will have a lower grade and hence a lower value.
3. Look for luster
The coin should ideally have a bright, shiny luster. If it appears dull or discolored it will have a lower grade.
4. Consult a grading guide
There are many grading guides available online. Check out our Coin Grading Chart article for more information!
Buying and Selling Collectible Coins
Buying and selling collectible coins, including the John Adams dollar coin, can be a lucrative hobby or investment. But it can also be risky if you do not know what you are doing or you choose the wrong selling platform. We have a few useful steps you can take if you are interested in buying or selling collectible coins…
1. Do your research!
First and foremost – do your research about your coin’s value, rarity and demand among collectors. Look up recent auction records, check online marketplaces, and consult with experts in the field.
Three sites you can try to buy or sell coins from are:
- eBay – under the Presidential Dollar Coins (2007-Now) section of eBay you can search for the exact type of coin you are looking for, and get an idea of the kinds of prices they are usually sold for. You can filter by mint location, certification, grade, date, price, and more! Selling through eBay is also recommended. Bear in mind you will build your reputation through successful selling, so if you have already sold good through eBay and received 5 stars you are already considered a reputable seller.
- Numista – through this site, you can find out a lot of information about coins from around the world. You can also swap coins with other members (Coin Swappers) and track down listings for the coin you are interested in purchasing.
- USA Coin Book – here you can find all rare and collectible coins in circulation! This link takes you to a page listing all the Presidential dollars under year and mint mark. Simply select the right coin and scroll down to see live auctions and where it can be bought.
You can also try antique or vintage stores specializing in coins and paper money, or ask around on specialized numismatic forums for advice and coin swaps.
2. Buy from reputable dealers
When buying collectible coins, it is important to buy from reputable dealers who are knowledgeable about the coins they are selling. Look for dealers who are members of professional organizations like the American Numismatic Association (ANA) or the Professional Numismatists Guild (PNG).
3. Check for authenticity
The John Adams dollar coin, like many collectible coins can be subject to counterfeiting. Make sure you are buying an authentic coin by checking for mint marks, examining the details and consulting with experts if necessary.
4. Keep your coins safe
If you are a collector it is important to keep your coins safe from damage, theft and other risks. Consider investing in a secure safe or safety deposit box, and handle your coins with care to avoid scratches or other damage.
FAQs
What is the value of a John Adams dollar coin in circulated condition?
A John Adams dollar coin in circulated condition is usually worth around $1 but may be worth up to $5 if it was minted in San Francisco.
What is the difference between circulated, uncirculated and proof condition?
Circulated coins have been used in commerce and may show signs of wear and tear such as scratches, dents or discoloration. Uncirculated coins have not been used in commerce and are typically in excellent condition. Proof coins are specially made coins for collectors with a high level of detail and a mirror-like surface finish.
What is the difference between coins minted in Philadelphia, Denver and San Francisco?
Coins minted in different locations bear different mint marks – small letters or symbols indicating where the coin was made. Coins minted in Philadelphia have no mint mark, those minted in Denver have a D mint mark, and those minted in San Francisco have an S mint mark.
Why are John Adams dollar coins relatively scarce?
The John Adams dollar coin was only in circulation for a short period of time (from 2007 to 2008) before it was replaced by the next coin in the Presidential dollar coin series. Additionally, many of these coins were likely removed from circulation and stored by collectors, further reducing the number available in circulation.
Are John Adams dollar coins a good investment?
The value of John Adams dollar coins, like any collectible, can be affected by a number of factors including rarity, demand and condition. While some coins may appreciate in value over time, there are no guarantees, and collecting coins should primarily be done for enjoyment and personal interest rather than solely as an investment.
