2018 American Innovation Dollar Value Checker: Errors List, “D”, “S” & “P” Mint Mark Worth

When the U.S. Mint launched its inaugural coin on December 14, 2018 — featuring George Washington’s handwritten signature and a tribute to America’s very first patent — collectors received something genuinely different from typical modern dollars.

The 2018 American Innovation Dollar value varies considerably depending on condition and finish. Circulated examples trade at face value, while a Philadelphia Position A coin in MS (Mint State, meaning uncirculated) condition fetches around $8.64, and a Denver Position B reaches $7.48. The most desirable version, the Reverse Proof, commands $16.00 at the entry level — but top-grade certified specimens climb dramatically higher.

These price differences reveal which versions serious collectors pursue and exactly why certain finishes hold stronger market positions than standard strikes.

 

2018 American Innovation Dollar Value By Variety

The table below breaks down pricing across different mint marks and grades, making it easier to identify which versions hold collector interest.

If you know the grade of your coin, you can find the exact price below in the Value Guides section.

Also Read: American Innovation Dollar Value (2018-Present)

 

Top 10 Most Valuable 2018 American Innovation Dollar Worth Money

The 2018-P Washington-Signed 1st Patent Position A graded MS68 leads the value chart at $750, recorded on eBay on December 7, 2020. This exceptional grade represents the highest certified condition ever documented for Philadelphia Mint strikes of this issue.

At the third position, the Position A First Strike MS67 from Philadelphia reached $500 at auction. Most uncirculated examples typically grade between MS65 and MS66, making these top-tier specimens notably scarce in today’s market.

The Denver Mint’s Position A MS68 commanded $499, while Position B in MS67 sold for $399. Among proof finishes, the 2018-S Reverse Proof PR70 First Strike stands out at $331, and a rare Chicago ANA-designated Reverse Proof PR70 has appeared on the market asking over $1,000.

These Washington Patent dollars mark the series’ inaugural release. High-grade certified examples consistently attract strong bidding from collectors seeking pristine condition coins from this historic first issue.

 

2018 American Innovation Dollar History and Background

The American Innovation $1 Coin Act moved swiftly through Congress in summer 2018. The Senate approved the legislation on June 20, followed by House passage on June 27. President Donald Trump signed it into law on July 18, 2018.

The program aimed to celebrate the nation’s tradition of innovation and pioneering spirit. Congress designed it as a multi-year series running through 2032, eventually honoring all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and five U.S. territories — a total of 56 coins across 14 years.

It officially launched on December 14, 2018, with a single introductory coin. This inaugural piece featured George Washington’s signature, commemorating his role in signing the first American patent on July 31, 1790.

That first patent was awarded to Samuel Hopkins, a Philadelphia inventor, for a new and improved method of manufacturing potash and pearl ash. Potash — later known as potassium carbonate — was used as a fertilizer, a cleaning agent in textile production, an ingredient in soap, and a component in glassmaking and gunpowder production. It was one of colonial America’s most important export commodities.

What most collectors don’t know is that Hopkins’s patent was formally numbered X0000001, and it carried the signatures of not just President Washington, but also Secretary of State Thomas Jefferson and Attorney General Edmund Randolph. The patent statute in effect at the time, passed in April 1790, granted inventors 14 years of exclusive rights for a total fee of roughly four to five dollars.

Hopkins later became the first person to receive Canada’s first patent as well, granted by the provincial government of Quebec in 1791 for the same potash process. His true identity as a Philadelphia resident was actually disputed for over a century — a fire at the U.S. Patent Office in December 1836 destroyed early records, causing historians to attribute the patent to a different Samuel Hopkins from Vermont until Philadelphia attorney and historian David W. Maxey finally corrected the record in 1998.

Beginning in 2019, the Mint began releasing four state coins annually in the order states ratified the Constitution or joined the Union. The 2018 coin established the visual and thematic foundation for this 14-year commemorative journey.

Also Read: Top 100 Rarest Silver Dollar Coins Worth Money (Most Expensive)

 

Is Your 2018 American Innovation Dollar Rare?

For the standard uncirculated issues, rarity is primarily a grade-level story rather than a mintage story. The Philadelphia Mint struck 862,475 examples of the 2018-P issue — a relatively large number that keeps common-grade pieces accessible and affordable.

The 2018-S Reverse Proof was capped at a maximum authorized mintage of 75,000 pieces, making it the scarcest variety by design. Within any variety, gems graded MS67 or higher, or proof pieces reaching PR70, represent a tiny fraction of surviving certified examples.

The Coin Value Checker App compiles mintage figures, grading populations, and market data for each 2018 variety, helping collectors evaluate rarity across different mint marks and finishes.

 

2018 American Innovation Dollar Key Features

The 2018 American Innovation Dollar carries distinct design elements. Designers Justin Kunz and Donna Weaver created complementary obverse and reverse designs that balance symbolic imagery with historical commemoration.

The coin features a manganese-brass composition similar to Presidential and Native American dollars, giving it the characteristic golden appearance modern collectors recognize.

The Obverse Of The 2018 American Innovation Dollar

The obverse presents a dramatic profile view of the Statue of Liberty. Sculptor Phebe Hemphill brought Justin Kunz’s design to life, capturing Liberty’s likeness in striking modern detail.

The design emphasizes Liberty’s face and crown in a close-up perspective, moving away from traditional full-figure depictions found on earlier dollar coins. This fresh interpretation symbolizes the spirit of innovation and the pursuit of knowledge — themes central to the entire series.

Two inscriptions appear on the obverse: “IN GOD WE TRUST” positioned before Liberty’s profile, and “$1” indicating the coin’s denomination. This same obverse design remains consistent across all American Innovation coins issued through 2032.

The Reverse Of The 2018 American Innovation Dollar

The reverse features George Washington’s signature exactly as it appeared on the historic patent document he signed on July 31, 1790. Donna Weaver designed this side of the coin, with sculptor Renata Gordon executing the final rendering.

Stylized gears appear at the top of the design, representing industry and innovation. A shield containing an emblematic eagle sits to the right of the main inscription, adding symbolic depth to the composition.

The inscriptions are arranged in three tiers. “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” runs diagonally across the upper portion. “AMERICAN INNOVATORS” appears prominently in the center, identifying the series name. Below Washington’s flowing signature script, the phrase “SIGNED FIRST PATENT” commemorates the historical event.

Other Features Of The 2018 American Innovation Dollar

The coin measures 26.49 millimeters in diameter and weighs 8.1 grams. Its composition consists of 88.5% copper, 6% zinc, 3.5% manganese, and 2% nickel, creating the golden color characteristic of modern dollar coins. The thickness measures 2.0 millimeters.

Edge inscriptions include the year “2018,” the mint mark (P for Philadelphia, D for Denver, or S for San Francisco), and “E PLURIBUS UNUM.” These incused (recessed) edge inscriptions replace the traditional raised rim text found on older commemorative dollars — and their two-step manufacturing process creates the opportunity for some of the most collectible errors found in this series.

Also Read: Top 80+ Most Valuable Sacagawea Dollar Worth Money (2000-P to Present)

 

The Easy Way to Know Your 2018 American Innovation Dollar Value

The way to check your coin’s worth starts with examining the mint mark (P, D, or S) and condition grade. Most uncirculated pieces typically grade MS65 to MS66, while mintage numbers and special finishes like proof or reverse proof versions significantly affect value. Professional certification can enhance collectibility.

For instant analysis of your specific coin’s characteristics and current market standing, try the Coin Value Checker App—your reliable tool for accurate numismatic assessments.

 

2018 American Innovation Dollar Value Guides

The 2018 Washington-Signed 1st Patent series includes multiple finishes from different mints, each offering distinct collecting appeal.

• 2018-P Washington-Signed 1st Patent American Innovation Dollar: Philadelphia Mint uncirculated finish with standard collector appeal. Mintage of 862,475 pieces keeps entry-level grades accessible.
• 2018-D Washington-Signed 1st Patent American Innovation Dollar: Denver Mint uncirculated version for everyday collectors, with Position A and Position B varieties based on edge lettering orientation.
• 2018-S Washington-Signed 1st Patent Rev Proof American Innovation Dollar: Inverted finish with frosted background and polished design elements. Maximum authorized mintage was capped at 75,000 pieces.
• 2018-S Washington-Signed 1st Patent DCAM American Innovation Dollar: Deep Cameo (DCAM) features deeply frosted design images contrasting against mirrored fields. Multiple special designations exist including Flag Picture Frame and Golden Gate Picture Frame sub-varieties.

These collector-only releases never entered circulation and are available exclusively from the Mint or secondary market dealers. Special finishes like Reverse Proof and high-grade certifications command modest premiums above regular strikes, with extreme grades reaching into the hundreds at auction.

Understanding each type helps collectors build comprehensive sets while recognizing value differences across mint marks and finishes.

Also Read: Top 40+ Most Valuable Presidential Dollar Coins Worth Money

 

2018-P Washington-Signed 1st Patent American Innovation Dollar Value

The 2018-P Washington Patent dollar exists in two edge lettering orientations. Position A coins display inverted edge inscriptions when the obverse faces up, while Position B pieces show upright lettering in the same orientation. Both varieties carry the year, P mint mark, and “E PLURIBUS UNUM” incused on the edge.

Common-grade examples trade close to issue premiums. MS65 specimens carry retail values around $10–$15, with MS66 pieces reaching $25. Lower-grade MS63–64 examples sell in the $6–$10 range.

Grade rarity drives the high-end market. MS67 coins require near-flawless surfaces and sharp strikes, while MS68 specimens represent true scarcity — the population certified at this tier is razor thin. The top auction record for this variety is $750 for an MS68 example sold on eBay on December 7, 2020. Dealers and collectors can reference the edge orientation distinction when cataloging pieces, though both positions follow similar market trajectories at equivalent grades.

Here are the historical auction records for this coin across different grades which can help you have a clear understanding of its value.

Meanwhile, the past year’s market data reveals whether collector demand has remained steady or shifted with broader market conditions.

 

2018-D Washington-Signed 1st Patent American Innovation Dollar Value

Denver-minted examples show distinct pricing patterns between Position A and Position B orientations. Position B pieces at MS66 trade around $18 retail, while Position A specimens at this grade command slightly higher premiums.

The gap widens at MS67, where Position B examples carry values near $90, though Position A coins at equivalent grades sell for around $65. The MS68 threshold marks genuine scarcity for Denver issues — Position A holds the certification record with one graded example reaching this level, while MS68 Position B specimens remain exceptionally rare in the marketplace.

First Strike designations add another dimension to value. Position A examples in MS67 First Strike reached $350 in February 2019 auctions, while Position B counterparts at the same grade and designation brought $250 later that month.

For collectors building sets, MS66–67 grades offer accessible entry points without excessive premiums. Those pursuing registry competition may find Position A examples worth targeting given the existing MS68 certification.

To understand its current market position, we can examine both historical auction results and recent trading activity.

Observing current market trends helps gauge collector attention and liquidity for the Denver Dollar.

 

2018-S Washington-Signed 1st Patent Reverse Proof American Innovation Dollar Value

The 2018-S Reverse Proof features an inverted finish where design elements display mirror-like surfaces while background fields carry frosted textures — the opposite of a standard proof finish. This is why it’s called a “reverse” proof.

To create this effect, San Francisco Mint technicians employ computer-controlled laser systems that scan each die and selectively frost the recessed field areas, leaving the raised devices polished to a high gloss. This specialized manufacturing process requires precision die preparation that goes well beyond standard proof production methods.

Mintage was capped at a maximum authorized 75,000 pieces, and this combination of controlled scarcity and specialized striking supports the issue’s premiums. PR70 examples can reach about $42 on today’s market, while PR69 pieces typically retail around $28. A rare Chicago ANA-event designated Reverse Proof PR70 has appeared on the secondary market for over $1,000, reflecting the premium collectors place on special event labels.

When authenticating these coins, surface behavior is the key indicator. Genuine Reverse Proofs show even frosting across all fields and clean, continuous mirror finishes on Liberty’s profile, Washington’s signature, and the gear elements. Under proper lighting, the boundary between frost and mirror should appear crisp and consistent.

The chart below tracks recent market activity, reflecting monthly shifts in demand for the Reverse Proof coins.

 

2018-S Washington-Signed 1st Patent DCAM American Innovation Dollar Value

The 2018-S Washington-Signed 1st Patent DCAM (Deep Cameo) American Innovation Dollar showcases San Francisco’s distinctive proof striking technique, where hand-selected planchets undergo multiple strikes from specially polished dies.

This meticulous process yields deeply frosted design elements that stand in sharp contrast against mirror-like fields. DCAM is the designation assigned by PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service) and NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Company) — the two leading third-party grading firms — when this contrast meets their strict standards.

The all-time auction record for this variety stands at $115 for a PR70DCAM example sold on eBay on April 21, 2019, according to PCGS CoinFacts. More recently, PR70 specimens graded by PCGS with a First Strike designation have been listed on the secondary market in the $60–$80 range, with only approximately 10 PCGS PR70DCAM First Strike examples known to exist.

This variety also offers several special sub-designations that command additional premiums. These include the Golden Gate Picture Frame, Flag Picture Frame, Cleveland MSS, and SF Picture Frame labels — all PCGS designations where the grading company encapsulates the coin in a specially themed holder. The Greysheet CPG price guide tracks all American Innovation Dollar varieties with values currently ranging from $1.50 to $60.00 across the broader series.

The coin’s market activity throughout recent months provides valuable insights into current collecting trends and pricing patterns.

Also Read: 17 Rare Dollar Coin Errors List with Pictures (By Year)

 

2018 American Innovation Dollar Rare Error List

The 2018 American Innovation Dollar marked the inaugural release of a multi-year series celebrating America’s technological achievements. Like Presidential and Native American Dollars before it, these coins employ a distinctive two-step minting process: the obverse and reverse are struck first, then coins move to a separate machine for edge lettering application.

This manufacturing approach, while efficient, creates opportunities for specific error types that have proven valuable among collectors of modern dollar coinage. Quality control has improved significantly since the famous Presidential Dollar edge lettering errors of 2007–2008, when tens of thousands of “Godless Dollars” entered circulation with missing edge inscriptions — but errors still surface on Innovation Dollars.

1. Missing Edge Lettering Errors

The absence of edge inscriptions represents the most documented error type in modern dollar coinage. This manufacturing defect occurs when coins bypass the edge-lettering machine entirely during the second production stage.

The 2018 American Innovation Dollar should carry four elements on its edge: the year “2018,” the mint mark (P or D), and the motto “E PLURIBUS UNUM.” When all of these inscriptions fail to appear, the result is a smooth, blank edge that immediately distinguishes the error from standard strikes.

During the 2007 Presidential Dollar run, PCGS alone certified well over 20,000 missing-edge-lettering Washington dollars — demonstrating just how often this type of error can slip through when production volumes are high.

The 2018 Innovation Dollar series has tighter quality controls, but confirmed examples still exist. A genuine missing-edge-lettering Innovation Dollar typically carries a premium of $50–$150 depending on grade, based on comparable error pricing for later Presidential and Native American dollars.

2. Off-Center Strike Errors

An off-center strike develops when the metal planchet (the blank coin disc) fails to seat properly between the upper and lower dies before striking. Without correct positioning within the collar, part of the blank extends beyond the striking chamber, resulting in incomplete design transfer.

The error’s severity is measured by the percentage of missing design elements — a 10% off-center strike shows subtle displacement, while a 50% off-center creates visual impact with half the design absent. For dollar-sized coins, off-center strikes are substantially less common than on smaller denominations, making them particularly noteworthy when they occur.

The manganese-brass composition of Innovation Dollars produces golden-colored planchets, meaning off-center examples retain their distinctive color while displaying the blank, unstruck metal along the coin’s periphery. Dramatic examples with 20–50% off-center displacement and a visible date can reach $200–$500 in certified grades.

3. Weak or Partial Edge Lettering Errors

Incomplete inscription transfer during edge lettering application creates subtle yet collectible variations. This error manifests when the edge-incusing machine applies insufficient pressure or when mechanical issues affect the lettering die’s contact with the coin’s edge.

The result falls between fully struck edge lettering and completely missing inscriptions — some characters appear faint, others may be partially formed, and certain sections might be entirely absent while neighboring areas remain legible. These are often called “partial edge lettering” errors in dealer catalogs.

Position A and Position B varieties add another layer of interest, as the orientation of weak lettering relative to the obverse design can vary. These pieces document the mechanical tolerances of the edge-lettering process and appeal to specialists who focus on transitional errors.

Values for partial-lettering examples are more modest than completely missing inscriptions — typically $25–$75 — but strong examples with dramatic partial letters on one side can approach $100 in certified form.

4. Doubled Edge Lettering Errors

A less commonly discussed error type is the doubled edge lettering, where the edge inscription machine contacts the coin twice — either from a mechanical repeat or a planchet slipping slightly during the process. This results in overlapping text on the edge, where letters or portions of the motto appear twice in the same space, sometimes inverted relative to each other.

Doubled edge lettering errors have been certified by PCGS on Presidential Dollar issues (for example, the 2011-P Grant dollar series), establishing a precedent for this error type in the modern dollar family. Similar examples are theoretically possible on 2018 Innovation Dollars and would be collected as variety coins distinct from the simple missing-lettering type.

 

Where To Sell Your 2018 American Innovation Dollar

Understanding your coin’s value is just the first step toward a successful sale. The marketplace offers diverse options ranging from direct dealer purchases to online auction platforms, each providing different advantages depending on your coin’s grade, rarity, and your selling timeline.

Check out now: Best Places To Sell Coins Online (Pros & Cons)

 

FAQ About The 2018 American Innovation Dollar Value

1. Are 2018 American Innovation Dollars in circulation?

No, these coins were never released into general circulation. The U.S. Mint produces them exclusively as collector items sold directly through their website and authorized dealers. Dollar coins have not entered circulation since 2011, making the 2018 American Innovation Dollar available only through numismatic channels at premium prices above face value.

2. Where can I buy a 2018 American Innovation Dollar?

You can purchase these coins directly from the U.S. Mint at 1-800-USA-MINT (872-6468) or through their website. Secondary market options include authorized coin dealers, online auction platforms like eBay, and numismatic retailers. The coins are sold in various formats including individual pieces, 25-coin rolls, 100-coin bags, and special proof sets with original mint packaging.

3. What is the most valuable 2018 American Innovation Dollar?

The top auction result recorded so far is $750 for a 2018-P Washington-Signed 1st Patent Position A graded MS68 by PCGS, sold on eBay in December 2020. Among proof issues, a 2018-S Reverse Proof PR70 with a rare Chicago ANA event designation has been listed on the secondary market for over $1,000, though standard PR70 examples typically sell for $40–$75.

4. What makes the 2018 American Innovation Dollar special?

This coin serves as the inaugural issue of the American Innovation Dollar Program, which runs through 2032. The reverse features George Washington’s actual signature from the first U.S. patent document he signed on July 31, 1790 — patent number X0000001 awarded to Philadelphia inventor Samuel Hopkins. As the first coin in a planned 56-coin series, it holds particular significance for set collectors.

5. What is the difference between Position A and Position B on the 2018 American Innovation Dollar?

Position A and Position B refer to the orientation of the edge lettering relative to the obverse design. On a Position A coin, the edge inscriptions (year, mint mark, and E PLURIBUS UNUM) appear inverted when the obverse faces up. On Position B, those same inscriptions appear upright in the same orientation. Both are standard varieties — not errors — and both are collected. Price differences between the two positions are usually minor, though at very high MS67–MS68 grades the market can favor one position slightly based on certified population.

6. How do I tell if my 2018 American Innovation Dollar is a proof or business strike?

Look at the coin’s surfaces under a single light source. A proof coin (from the San Francisco Mint, “S” mint mark on the edge) will show deeply mirror-like fields (the flat background areas) and frosted design elements. A standard uncirculated business strike (P or D mint mark) will have a more uniform, slightly satiny or brilliant surface without the dramatic mirror-field contrast. Deep Cameo (DCAM) proofs show the strongest version of this contrast, which is why DCAM-graded coins carry higher premiums.

7. What does “First Strike” designation mean for the 2018 American Innovation Dollar?

“First Strike” is a designation added by PCGS to coins submitted within the first 30 days of an issue’s official release date. It signifies early production and is primarily a marketing distinction rather than a guarantee of strike quality. First Strike-designated examples of the 2018 issue have sold for premiums of $50–$350 above equivalent non-designated pieces at the same grade, depending on the specific variety and grade level.

8. Has anyone found a 2018 American Innovation Dollar error coin?

Yes, though they are uncommon. The most likely errors to encounter are missing edge lettering (the coin bypasses the second-stage edge inscription machine entirely, leaving a smooth blank edge) and partial edge lettering (incomplete text due to mechanical issues).

These error types were well documented in the Presidential Dollar series that preceded the Innovation Dollars, with PCGS certifying thousands of examples from the 2007–2008 Presidential Dollar run. The Innovation Dollar series benefits from improved quality controls, but errors remain possible and collectible.

9. What is the mintage of the 2018-P American Innovation Dollar?

The 2018-P American Innovation Dollar had a reported mintage of 862,475 pieces. The Denver Mint produced a comparable quantity. By contrast, the 2018-S Reverse Proof was capped at a maximum authorized mintage of 75,000 pieces — roughly one-eleventh the size of the Philadelphia business strike — which is why Reverse Proof examples command a meaningful premium even in average grades.

10. Should I get my 2018 American Innovation Dollar professionally graded?

Professional grading by PCGS or NGC makes the most financial sense if your coin appears to be in exceptional condition (no visible marks, original luster, sharp detail) or if you have a potential error coin. For standard MS65–MS66 quality pieces, grading fees may equal or exceed the coin’s market premium, so it is better to sell those raw (ungraded).

However, for any piece that appears MS67 or above, or for any suspected missing-edge-lettering or off-center error, PCGS or NGC certification can significantly increase both marketability and realized price.