How Much is a 2009 S William Henry Harrison Dollar Worth Today
The 2009-S W.H. Harrison Dollar Coin is worth anywhere from $4 in standard proof condition to over $50 for high-grade specimens. If you have found one of these golden-colored coins in your pocket change or an old collection, you likely have a “Proof” coin intended for collectors rather than daily spending.
The History and Identification of the 2009 S Harrison Dollar
The William Henry Harrison dollar was released in 2009 as the ninth entry in the Presidential $1 Coin Program. While millions of Harrison dollars were struck in Philadelphia and Denver for general use, the “S” mint mark indicates the coin was produced at the San Francisco Mint. These coins were specifically minted for collectors and were originally sold in official sets.
Identifying your coin is the first step toward knowing its value. Look closely at the edge of the coin; unlike older quarters or dimes, the date, mint mark, and “E Pluribus Unum” are incused on the rim. If you are unsure about the variety you have, using a free coin identifier app can help you distinguish between a common circulation strike and a valuable proof.
Most 2009-S dollars feature a “Deep Cameo” finish, characterized by frosted portraits against mirror-like backgrounds. Because these were protected in plastic cases, finding one in your change is rare, but it does happen. If you find a shiny one, the CoinKnow app is a great tool to help you document your find and track its market performance over time.
How Construction and Condition Impact Market Value
When determining the value of your 2009-S W.H. Harrison dollar, condition is the single most important factor. Since these coins never entered circulation, most are found in “Mint State” or “Proof” grades. Professional graders use a 70-point scale, where PR70 represents a perfect coin. Even tiny scratches visible only under a magnifying glass can drop the price significantly.
You can find current market trends and a comprehensive price guide for 2009 dollar coins to see how different grades affect the final sale price. While a PR65 might sell for a few dollars, a perfect PR70 can fetch a premium from serious collectors looking to complete their sets.
Composition also plays a role in how these coins age. The “golden” color comes from a manganese-brass coating over a copper core. These materials can tarnish or “tone” over time if exposed to air. To get an instant estimate of what your specific coin might be worth, the CoinKnow app allows you to upload photos and receive feedback based on current auction records.
2009 S William Henry Harrison Proof Dollar Value Chart
Understanding the pricing tiers for these coins helps you avoid selling for too little or overestimating a common find. Below is a breakdown of what you can expect to pay or receive for this specific San Francisco minting.
| Coin Grade / Condition | Estimated Market Value |
|---|---|
| PR 65 (Standard Proof) | $3.50 – $5.00 |
| PR 67 (High Quality Proof) | $8.00 – $12.00 |
| PR 69 (Near Perfect) | $15.00 – $25.00 |
| PR 70 (Perfect Condition) | $45.00 – $75.00 |
Are There Rare Error Varieties for the 2009 S Dollar?
While the San Francisco Mint typically maintains very high quality control, error hunters always keep an eye out for anomalies. For the Harrison dollar, errors might include “weak edge lettering” where the mint mark is faint, or “doubled die” errors on the reverse or obverse. However, confirmed errors for the “S” proof version are extremely scarce compared to the “P” and “D” versions.
For a deeper dive into common issues and values across the entire series, check out this breakdown of 2009 presidential dollar values. Most “gold” dollars found in change are simply worth their face value of one dollar, but the “S” mark on the rim changes the math immediately.
If you suspect your coin has a unique error, don’t clean it! Cleaning a coin with chemicals or cloth can destroy its numismatic value instantly. Instead, use the CoinKnow app to compare your coin’s features with known error varieties. It’s the safest way for a beginner to verify if they have a rare treasure or a common collectible.
Summary for Everyday Collectors
To wrap up, the 2009-S William Henry Harrison Dollar is a beautiful piece of American history. Because it was minted in San Francisco for collectors, it is naturally worth more than the one-dollar face value. While you won’t retire on the proceeds of selling one, finding a high-grade specimen is a thrill for any casual hunter. Keep your coins in a cool, dry place and use digital tools to stay updated on their ever-changing market values.
FAQ about the 2009 S William Henry Harrison Dollar
Q: Is the 2009-S Harrison dollar made of real gold?
A: No, despite its golden appearance, it is made of a copper core with a manganese-brass cladding. There is no actual gold content in these coins.
Q: Where can I find the mint mark on my 2009 dollar?
A: Unlike most coins where the “S,” “P,” or “D” is on the face, the Presidential Dollars have the mint mark stamped into the edge of the coin.
Q: Can I spend a 2009-S Harrison dollar at a store?
A: Yes, it is legal tender worth $1. However, since its collector value starts at around $4, it is better to keep it or sell it to a coin shop rather than spending it at face value.
