This comprehensive guide explores the 2010 Millard Fillmore dollar coin, covering its history, design, value, and collecting tips. Whether you’re a seasoned numismatist or just curious about this presidential coin, this guide offers valuable insights. Spice up your Monopoly GO gameplay and safeguard your kitchen with some sizzling monopoly go free oven mitts.
Released in 2010 as part of the Presidential $1 Coin Program, the Millard Fillmore dollar coin commemorates the 13th U.S. President. This program, authorized by the Presidential $1 Coin Act of 2005, issued four new $1 coins annually, honoring deceased presidents in the order they served. The Fillmore dollar, like its predecessors, offers a glimpse into American history and numismatic artistry.
Design and Specifications
The coin’s obverse (heads side) features a dignified portrait of President Fillmore, while the reverse (tails side) displays the Statue of Liberty, a recurring motif in the series. Key inscriptions include “MILLARD FILLMORE,” “IN GOD WE TRUST,” “LIBERTY,” and “$1.” The edge is inscribed with “E PLURIBUS UNUM | IN GOD WE TRUST | 2010.”
Composed of a manganese-brass core plated with copper, the coin weighs 8.1 grams and measures 26.5 mm in diameter. These specifications are consistent across all Presidential dollars, ensuring uniformity within the series. Three mint marks indicate the coin’s origin: “P” for Philadelphia, “D” for Denver, and “S” for San Francisco (primarily for proof coins). This seemingly small detail can significantly influence a coin’s value among collectors.
Determining the Value of Your Fillmore Dollar
While always worth its $1 face value, the Millard Fillmore dollar can command a higher price for collectors. Several factors contribute to a coin’s numismatic value, primarily its condition, mint mark, and the presence of any errors.
Grading and Condition
Coin condition, often referred to as “grade,” plays a pivotal role in determining value. The Sheldon scale, ranging from 1 to 70, provides a standardized assessment of a coin’s wear and tear. A circulated Fillmore dollar might be worth its face value, but an uncirculated example, particularly one graded MS-65 or higher, could be worth several dollars, especially if it’s a proof coin (designated PR) from the San Francisco mint.
Mint Marks and Rarity
The San Francisco mint (marked “S”) produced fewer Fillmore dollars, primarily proof coins intended for collectors. This relative scarcity contributes to their higher value compared to coins from Philadelphia (“P”) or Denver (“D”). While millions of Fillmore dollars from Philadelphia and Denver exist, a smaller number of proof coins were struck at the San Francisco mint. This limited mintage makes them more desirable, especially in pristine condition.
Errors and Varieties
Error coins, those with unintentional flaws during the minting process, can be exceptionally valuable. Missing edge lettering is a recognized error in the 2010 series, potentially increasing a coin’s worth significantly. Other errors, such as off-center strikes or doubled dies, can also command premium prices, sometimes reaching thousands of dollars. These unique imperfections transform ordinary coins into sought-after treasures.
The following table provides a general idea of values (remember, these are estimates, and actual prices can vary):
Grade
Mint Mark
Estimated Value
Uncirculated
P, D
$1-$4
MS 65
P, D
~$3.50
PR 65 (Proof)
S
~$6
MS+ (Uncirculated)
D
$4.31+
MS 69 (with error)
Any
Up to $5,500+
Starting Your Fillmore Dollar Collection
Building a Millard Fillmore dollar coin collection can be a rewarding hobby. Resources like the USA Coin Book, the PCGS Price Guide, and online numismatic databases can provide valuable information.
Where to Buy and Sell
Reputable coin dealers, online marketplaces (like eBay and Etsy), and local coin shows are potential avenues for acquiring Fillmore dollars. However, exercise caution when buying online, ensuring sellers are reputable and coins are authentic. Authentication services like PCGS and NGC can verify a coin’s genuineness and assign an official grade, enhancing its value and your peace of mind.
Storage and Preservation
Proper storage is essential for preserving your collection’s value. Protective sleeves, albums, and specialized coin holders can shield coins from environmental damage, preventing scratches and tarnishing.
Beyond Fillmore: Exploring Rare Dollar Coins
While the standard 2010 Millard Fillmore dollar might not be considered exceptionally rare, certain varieties and error coins command significant premiums. Furthermore, the world of rare dollar coins extends far beyond the Presidential series. Early American dollars, such as the Flowing Hair and Draped Bust dollars, are inherently scarce due to their age and lower mintage figures. These historic coins can fetch substantial sums at auction, representing tangible links to the nation’s early history.
By understanding the factors that influence coin values – condition, rarity, and the presence of errors – you can embark on a rewarding journey into the fascinating world of numismatics. The Millard Fillmore dollar, while a common coin in its standard form, offers a gateway to appreciating the rich history and intricate details found within these small, yet significant, pieces of American currency.
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