The 2011 P James Garfield Dollar is worth anywhere from $1 in circulated condition to over $45 in high-grade uncirculated condition. Most of these coins found in daily pocket change are worth exactly their face value, but specific mint errors or pristine specimens can command a higher premium from collectors.
The History and Market Value of the James Garfield Presidential Dollar
The James Garfield Presidential Dollar was released in 2011 as part of the United States Mint’s ongoing program to honor every American president. Garfield, our 20th president, served a term tragically cut short by assassination, but his coin remains a popular item for those completing a full presidential set. If you stumble upon one of these golden-colored coins, the first thing you should do is check its condition to see if it stands out from the rest. Most people use a free coin identifier app to quickly determine if their coin is a common circulation strike or something rarer.
Because these coins were minted in the millions, they are common in general circulation. However, the Mint stopped producing Presidential Dollars for general circulation later in 2011 due to a massive surplus in government vaults. This shift makes the 2011 issues, including the Garfield dollar, slightly more interesting to collectors than earlier years like Washington or Adams. If you are unsure about the specifics of your find, the CoinHix app can help you zoom in on the details that define a coin’s market worth.
Understanding the Philadelphia Mint Mark and Coin Grading
The “P” on your James Garfield dollar indicates it was struck at the Philadelphia Mint. You can find this mint mark, along with the year and the motto “E Pluribus Unum,” inscribed on the edge of the coin rather than on the face. This edge-lettering process was a unique feature of the series, but it also led to several famous mint errors. Collectors often look for coins with “missing edge lettering,” which can increase the value significantly.
When determining the price, professional grading is key. A coin that has been banged around in a vending machine will only be worth $1. However, if you have a “Mint State” (MS) coin that looks like it just came off the press, you might find that the 2011 P dollar auction price trends show a much higher range for coins graded MS65 or higher. Using a tool like CoinHix allows you to compare your coin against high-resolution images of top-tier specimens.
2011 P James Garfield Dollar Value Comparison Table
To give you a better idea of what your coin might be worth based on its condition, refer to the price guide below. Please note that “Circulated” refers to coins used in daily commerce, while “Uncirculated” refers to coins that have no wear and tear.
| Condition / Grade | Estimated Value (USD) |
|---|---|
| Circulated (F-AU) | $1.00 |
| Uncirculated (MS63) | $2.50 – $4.00 |
| Choice Uncirculated (MS65) | $10.00 – $15.00 |
| Gem Uncirculated (MS67+) | $45.00+ |
| Proof (S Mint Only) | $5.00 – $12.00 |
Identifying Rare Errors and Special Strikes
While the standard 2011 P Garfield dollar is common, error hunters keep a close eye on this series. One of the most sought-after varieties is the “Satin Finish” version, which was included in government-issued Uncirculated Mint Sets. These have a soft, matte-like appearance compared to the shiny surface of a standard coin. Knowing the market value for 2011-era dollar coins is essential if you think you have one of these special finishes, as they are not found in normal change.
Another rare occurrence is the “Double Edge Lettering” error. This happens when the coin is fed through the edge-lettering machine twice, resulting in overlapping text. If you see jumbled letters on the rim of your Garfield dollar, you might be looking at a coin worth $50 to $100. Before you spend it at the grocery store, use the CoinHix app to verify the authenticity of any suspected errors.
Is It Worth Getting My Garfield Dollar Professionally Graded
For most Americans, the answer is usually no. Because the cost of professional grading (through services like PCGS or NGC) can range from $20 to $50 per coin, it only makes sense to grade a 2011 P James Garfield dollar if it is in near-perfect condition. If your coin has even a single scratch visible to the naked eye, its value likely won’t cover the cost of the grading fee.
However, if you have a roll of coins that has never been opened, or a coin that looks flawlessly smooth under a magnifying glass, it might be a candidate for a high grade. Exceptional specimens at the MS68 grade level are extremely rare and can sell for hundreds of dollars at specialized numismatic auctions. Always do your research first to ensure your “golden” find is actually the treasure you hope it is.
Q: Is the James Garfield dollar made of real gold?
A: No, despite their “golden” appearance, these coins contain no actual gold. They are composed of a pure copper core with an outer layer of manganese brass, which gives them their distinct yellow color.
Q: Where is the mint mark on the 2011 P Garfield dollar?
A: Unlike most US coins, the mint mark is not on the face or back. It is located on the edge (rim) of the coin, along with the date and the motto “E Pluribus Unum.”
Q: Can I spend this coin at a store?
A: Yes, the James Garfield dollar is legal tender and is worth exactly one dollar at any business or bank in the United States. However, collectors often pay a premium for those in perfect condition.
