The 2007 George Washington dollar was the first coin released in the Presidential Dollar series. While most coins are worth only their face value, certain minting errors have made some 2007 dollars highly collectible. These mistakes are uncommon and can significantly increase a coin’s value, especially when graded in high mint-state condition. Collectors actively seek out these errors due to their rarity and unique visual appeal.
Top 2007 George Washington Dollar Coin Errors
1. Missing Edge Lettering
Coins in the series normally feature inscriptions like “In God We Trust” and “E Pluribus Unum” along the edge.
- Error: Coin skipped the edge lettering machine entirely, leaving a smooth edge.
- Notable sale: MS65 sold for $1,225 in 2020.
- Collector appeal: Highly rare and visually striking, a must-have for error coin enthusiasts.
2. Inverted Doubled Edge Lettering
This unusual error happens when the coin passes through the edge-lettering machine twice, with one impression upside down.
- Notable sale: 2007-P MS65 sold for $1,205.
- Why it’s valuable: Dramatic visual effect and very limited in high grades.
3. Die Clash Error
Occurs when the coin dies strike each other without a blank planchet, leaving faint impressions from the opposite side.
- Notable sale: 2007-P MS64 sold for $830 in 2021.
- Collector appeal: Creates ghostlike designs, making each coin unique.
4. Die Chip Error
Small pieces of the die break or crack, leaving raised bumps or blobs on the coin’s surface.
- Notable sale: 2007-D MS63 sold for $540.
- Why it’s collectible: Adds subtle but noticeable character to the coin.
5. Annealing Error
Improper heating or cooling of the blank results in unusual colors such as black, blue, orange, or purple.
- Notable sale: 2007-P MS65 sold for $915 in 2022.
- Collector appeal: Dramatic colors make the coin visually striking and rare.
6. Off-Center Strike
Coin blank not properly centered during striking, leaving part of the design missing or shifted.
- Notable sale: 2007-D 25% off-center MS63 sold for $730.
- Why collectors value it: Bold misalignment makes the coin stand out while keeping key details visible.
7. Struck-Through Error
Debris such as grease, dust, or fibers gets between the die and the blank, leaving missing details or flattened areas.
- Notable sale: 2007-D MS64 sold for $1,030.
- Collector appeal: Unique patterns make every coin one-of-a-kind.
8. Double-Struck Error
Coin receives two strikes in slightly different positions, creating overlapping or rotated designs.
- Notable sale: 2007-D MS64 sold for $945 in 2023.
- Why it’s collectible: Dramatic and easy-to-identify error, ideal for error coin enthusiasts.
Quick Value Table of 2007 Dollar Errors
| Error Type | Grade | Auction Price | Year Sold |
|---|---|---|---|
| Missing Edge Lettering | MS65 | $1,225 | 2020 |
| Inverted Doubled Edge Lettering | MS65 | $1,205 | 2020 |
| Die Clash | MS64 | $830 | 2021 |
| Die Chip | MS63 | $540 | 2020 |
| Annealing | MS65 | $915 | 2022 |
| Off-Center Strike (25%) | MS63 | $730 | 2023 |
| Struck-Through | MS64 | $1,030 | 2022 |
| Double-Struck | MS64 | $945 | 2023 |
Why These Errors Are Valuable
- Rarity: Each mistake occurs in very limited numbers.
- Visual appeal: Dramatic differences from standard coins make them stand out.
- Condition-sensitive: Higher-grade coins (MS63+) command top prices.
- Historical insight: Errors reveal interesting aspects of the minting process.
FAQs
1. What is a missing edge lettering error?
The coin bypasses the edge lettering machine, leaving a smooth edge.
2. How does inverted doubled edge lettering occur?
The coin passes through the edge-lettering machine twice, with one impression upside down.
3. What causes a die clash error?
Coin dies strike each other without a blank coin, leaving faint images from the opposite side.
4. How do off-center strike errors happen?
The blank is misaligned in the press, causing a shifted or partial design.
5. Are error coins more valuable than regular coins?
Yes, rarity, uniqueness, and visual appeal make error coins worth much more than face value.
Conclusion
The 2007 George Washington dollar errors offer collectors rare, visually striking, and historically fascinating coins. From missing edge lettering to double strikes, each coin is a unique piece of minting history. Whether you are a serious numismatist or a casual collector, these errors provide both excitement and value, making them a rewarding addition to any collection.