The Presidential Dollar Coin Program was introduced by the United States Mint in 2007 to honor former U.S. presidents in the order they served. What started as a circulating commemorative series quickly became a favorite among collectors. While many of these coins still trade at face value, a select few have developed strong premiums due to minting errors, low mintage numbers, condition rarity, and collector demand.
In 2026, interest in modern U.S. coins continues to grow, and Presidential Dollars are attracting both new and experienced collectors. Some rare varieties have sold for thousands of dollars at auctions, proving that even relatively recent coins can hold significant value. Below are ten Presidential Dollar coins that stand out in 2026 for their collector appeal and potential worth.
George Washington 2007 Dollar With Missing Edge Lettering
The first coin in the series honored George Washington. While millions were minted, a small number left the Mint without the required edge inscriptions. Presidential Dollars were designed with inscriptions such as “E Pluribus Unum,” the year of minting, and the mint mark stamped on the edge rather than the face.
Some 2007 Washington dollars were mistakenly released without this edge lettering. These so-called “Godless Dollars” lack the usual inscriptions and immediately caught the attention of collectors. In high-grade uncirculated condition, these error coins have sold for hundreds and sometimes thousands of dollars, depending on their preservation and certification status.
John Adams 2007 Dollar With Edge Lettering Error
The John Adams Presidential Dollar, also released in 2007, experienced a similar edge-lettering issue. Certain examples either missed the edge inscriptions entirely or displayed doubled or inverted lettering.
Because this was still early in the program, the production process was being refined, and errors slipped through quality control. Well-preserved John Adams error coins have gained steady value over the years. In 2026, pristine specimens can command impressive premiums compared to standard circulation pieces.
Thomas Jefferson 2007 Doubled Edge Lettering Dollar
Another intriguing variety from the first year of the program is the Thomas Jefferson dollar with doubled edge lettering. In this case, the coin passed through the edge-lettering machine twice, resulting in overlapping inscriptions.
Collectors value error coins that are easily visible to the naked eye, and doubled lettering is one such feature. High-grade examples authenticated by reputable grading services often fetch significant prices, particularly when the doubling is bold and clear.
James Madison 2007 Missing Edge Inscription Dollar
The James Madison Presidential Dollar continued the trend of early-series edge errors. Like its predecessors, some coins were released without the required edge inscriptions.
While the number of missing-edge Madison dollars is smaller than the Washington variety, demand remains strong. The coin’s position as part of the inaugural year of the series adds to its desirability. Collectors assembling complete error sets often seek this coin specifically.
2008 Martin Van Buren Dollar With Position A and Position B Varieties
As production improved, dramatic errors became less common. However, subtle differences such as edge inscription positions began attracting attention. The Martin Van Buren dollar features what collectors refer to as Position A and Position B varieties, depending on how the edge lettering aligns relative to the obverse design.
While both types were intentionally produced, scarcity in top grades has driven premiums. Coins graded at the highest levels can sell for much more than face value due to limited availability in flawless condition.
2009 William Henry Harrison Low Mintage Dollar
By 2009, public demand for Presidential Dollars in circulation had declined, and mintage numbers dropped sharply. The William Henry Harrison dollar, in particular, was struck in significantly lower quantities compared to earlier issues.
Lower mintage alone does not guarantee high value, but when combined with strong collector interest and limited high-grade survivors, it can lead to rising prices. Mint State examples with strong eye appeal are increasingly sought after in 2026.
2012 Chester Arthur Dollar From Limited Circulation
Beginning in 2012, the United States Mint shifted to producing Presidential Dollars primarily for collectors rather than general circulation. The Chester Arthur dollar from that year was released in smaller numbers and saw minimal everyday use.
Because fewer coins were handled in commerce, most remain in uncirculated condition. However, top-tier graded coins with perfect surfaces can still command solid premiums due to registry-set competition among collectors striving for flawless collections.
2015 Lyndon B. Johnson Dollar in High Mint State
The Lyndon B. Johnson Presidential Dollar represents a later entry in the series. While not known for dramatic minting errors, its value in 2026 is driven by condition rarity.
Coins graded at the very highest Mint State levels are relatively scarce. Collectors pursuing complete high-grade sets often pay significant amounts for examples that achieve top certification grades, making this coin surprisingly valuable despite its modern origin.
2016 Ronald Reagan Dollar With Strong Strike and Luster
The Ronald Reagan Presidential Dollar marked the conclusion of the original program. As the final coin in the series, it holds special historical significance.
High-quality specimens featuring strong strikes and vibrant luster have attracted collector interest. While most examples trade near face value, certified top-grade coins and select error varieties have shown notable appreciation in recent years.
Proof Presidential Dollar Sets With Deep Cameo Finish
In addition to circulation strikes, proof versions of Presidential Dollars were produced for collectors. These coins feature mirror-like fields and frosted designs. Proof coins with deep cameo contrast and flawless surfaces can be worth substantially more than their issue price.
Complete proof sets from earlier years, especially in pristine condition with original packaging, are particularly desirable. Individual proof coins graded at the highest levels can also command impressive prices at auctions.
Why Certain Presidential Dollars Are Worth Thousands
The value of any coin depends on a combination of rarity, condition, demand, and historical significance. In the case of Presidential Dollars, error varieties and low-mintage issues lead the market. Condition plays a critical role, especially for modern coins where collectors expect near-perfect surfaces.
Grading by recognized services adds credibility and can dramatically increase a coin’s market value. Even minor imperfections can significantly reduce the price of a modern dollar coin, making pristine examples far more desirable.
The Growing Appeal of Modern Coin Collecting in 2026
Modern coins are increasingly popular among younger collectors who appreciate the accessibility and historical themes. Presidential Dollars offer a clear timeline of American leadership, making them educational as well as collectible.
With more collectors competing for top-grade specimens and notable error coins, prices have shown steady growth. While not every Presidential Dollar will make someone wealthy, select pieces have proven that even coins minted in the 21st century can achieve remarkable values.
Final Verdict
The Presidential Dollar series may be relatively recent, but it has already produced several coins worth far more than their face value. From dramatic edge-lettering errors in 2007 to low-mintage and high-grade modern issues, these coins demonstrate how rarity and condition can transform everyday currency into prized collectibles.
Collectors in 2026 continue to search for these standout examples, and the right coin in exceptional condition could indeed be worth thousands.
Disclaimer
Coin values mentioned in this article are based on collector demand and market trends as of 2026. Actual prices may vary depending on condition, grading, authenticity, and current market conditions. Always consult a professional coin dealer or certified grading service before making significant buying or selling decisions.
