Description:
The 1877-S Trade Dollar, graded as AU Details, is a historic U.S. silver dollar struck at the San Francisco Mint. Created to facilitate American trade in Asia, the Trade Dollar contained slightly more silver than the standard U.S. dollar and was designed by William Barber. This example retains attractive detail and light wear despite its Details status, making it a desirable and affordable piece of 19th-century U.S. silver coinage.
Specifications:
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Denomination: Trade Dollar ($1)
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Year of Issue: 1877
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Mint: San Francisco (“S” mintmark)
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Designer: William Barber
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Series: Trade Dollar (1873–1885)
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Composition: 90% Silver, 10% Copper
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Diameter: 38.1 mm
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Weight: 27.22 grams
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Grade: AU Details
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Certification: Raw (uncertified, sold as is)
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Holder: Archival flip
Highlights:
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1877-S Trade Dollar, graded AU Details
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Struck at the San Francisco Mint
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Designed by William Barber, Chief Engraver of the U.S. Mint
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Obverse: Liberty seated on a bale, holding olive branch, “LIBERTY” on ribbon
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Reverse: Eagle with arrows and olive branch, “TRADE DOLLAR” inscription
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Struck in .900 fine silver, heavier than the standard U.S. silver dollar
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Historic U.S. issue created for commerce with Asia
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Affordable collector example with strong remaining detail
Historical Note:
The Trade Dollar was introduced in 1873 to compete with large silver coins in Asian markets, especially the Mexican 8 Reales. With a weight of 420 grains (27.22 grams), it exceeded the silver content of standard U.S. dollars, making it more acceptable in international trade. Many were exported and melted, leaving relatively few in collector hands. The 1877-S is one of the more available dates, yet it remains a popular type coin for its artistry and connection to 19th-century global commerce.
Searching for more historic silver dollars or U.S. type coins? Contact us — we carry a curated selection of Trade Dollars, Morgan Dollars, and early American silver coinage.
