By Nancy Oliver and Richard Kelly - Coins Magazine

By the middle of the 19th century, the 1804 silver dollar was the topic of much discussion in numismatic circles, and had become the object of many a collector’s fancy. Newspaper stories were plentiful on the subject of this rare coin, with much discussion related to the quantity that were actually minted—either in 1804 or perhaps at some later date. Many questioned the accuracy of the Mint director’s report of 19,570 having been made—for less than 15 genuine examples were thought to exist.

Scores of interesting interviews showed up in newspapers nationwide concerning coins as collectibles, many with a special mention of the 1804 silver dollar and its mintage numbers. Most of the discussions were done with individuals considered to be quite knowledgeable on the subject of this coin at that time. The following are some excerpts from just a few ……….