The 2019-S DE Dollar is worth anywhere from $5 for a standard proof to over $50 in high-grade mint sets. This coin, part of the American Innovation series, honors the state of Delaware and is a popular find among treasure hunters looking for modern collectibles.

Condition / Variety	Estimated Value
PR69 Deep Cameo	$10 – $15
PR70 Deep Cameo (Perfect)	$45 – $65
Reverse Proof Variety	$15 – $25

History of the 2019-S Delaware American Innovation Dollar

The 2019-S Delaware Dollar is the very first release in the multi-year American Innovation $1 Coin Program. This ambitious series was launched by the United States Mint to celebrate innovators and innovations from each of the 50 states, the District of Columbia, and the five U.S. territories.

Because these coins were not released for general circulation, finding one in your pocket change is quite rare. They were primarily sold in rolls, bags, and specialized sets directly from the Mint. If you’ve stumbled upon one, you’re likely holding a coin that a collector once owned. To make sure you’re identifying your find correctly, using a top coin identifier app can help you distinguish between the different finishes and mint marks.

Representing “The First State,” the Delaware coin pays tribute to astronomer Annie Jump Cannon. She developed a system for classifying stars that is still used today. The “S” mint mark indicates that this particular coin was struck at the San Francisco Mint, which is renowned for producing high-quality proof strikes intended for collectors rather than daily commerce.

Using tools like CoinKnow can help you track the historical significance of these releases and stay updated on how the market views the early coins in this successful series.

Understanding the “S” Mint Mark and Coin Finishes

When examining a 2019 Delaware Dollar, the “S” mint mark is a key factor in its valuation. Most people are used to seeing “P” (Philadelphia) or “D” (Denver) on their coins, but the “S” signifies a certain level of prestige. For the Delaware release, the San Francisco Mint produced two distinct types: the standard Proof and the Reverse Proof.

A standard Proof coin features a frosted foreground design against a mirror-like background. Conversely, the Reverse Proof (which was part of a specific set) features a mirror-like design against a frosted field. This difference is crucial for pricing. Many collectors rely on current 2019 American Innovation dollar value data to decide which finish to invest in.

Because these coins were produced with extra care, they are expected to be in near-perfect condition. Every hairline scratch or fingerprint can significantly drop the price. If you aren’t sure how to grade your coin’s surface, the CoinKnow app offers high-resolution imagery to compare your coin against professional standards.

Finish Type	Mint Mark	Availability
Proof	S (San Francisco)	Proof Sets Only
Reverse Proof	S (San Francisco)	Single Coin Sets

Annie Jump Cannon and the Reverse Design

The visual appeal of the 2019-S DE Dollar is centered on its beautiful reverse design. It features a silhouette of Annie Jump Cannon against a night sky, surrounded by stars. It is a striking image that captures the essence of scientific discovery. Unlike the 2019 Native American dollar market prices, which celebrate different themes, the Innovation series focuses on technical achievements.

The stars on the coin are not just decorative; they represent the spectral classes (O, B, A, F, G, K, M) that Cannon helped organize. This level of detail makes the coin highly desirable for both coin collectors and fans of science history.

The obverse (front) of the coin features a common design for the entire series: the Statue of Liberty. It also includes a small “privy mark” of a stylized gear, representing industry and innovation. Because the obverse is the same across many years, the “S” mint mark and the unique Delaware reverse are what you need to look for to determine the specific value of your coin.

How Much is a 2019-S Delaware Dollar Worth?

Pricing for the 2019-S DE Dollar is generally stable, but it fluctuates based on the “grade” or condition assigned by professional services like PCGS or NGC. Most of these coins are found in “Gem Proof” condition, meaning they look almost perfect to the naked eye.

A standard “S” mint proof in a typical collector’s holder is usually worth between $7 and $12. However, if the coin is graded as PR70 Deep Cameo (the highest possible grade), the price can jump to $50 or even $80 depending on the current demand at auction.

The Reverse Proof version of the Delaware dollar usually carries a slight premium over the standard proof. This is because it was sold as a standalone product and has a unique “frosted” background that collectors find visually stunning. Keeping an eye on the CoinKnow price guide will help you spot if the market for these specific San Francisco strikes is rising or falling.

Professional Grade	Retail Price (Proof)	Retail Price (Reverse Proof)
Ungraded / OGP	$5.00	$8.00
PR69 DCAM	$14.00	$18.00
PR70 DCAM	$55.00	$65.00

Tips for Selling and Protecting Your Delaware Coin

If you believe you have a valuable 2019-S Delaware Dollar, the first rule is: do not clean it! Cleaning a coin with chemicals or even a soft cloth can create microscopic scratches that destroy its numismatic value. A coin that would have been worth $50 could drop to $1 just because it was wiped clean.

Instead, keep the coin in its original government packaging (OGP) if possible. If you found the coin loose, place it in a protective PVC-free “flip” or a plastic capsule. This protects the delicate mirror finish of the “S” mint proof strike from oxygen and moisture, which can cause cloudy oxidation or “toning.”

When you are ready to sell, check online auction sites or visit a local coin shop. Be aware that dealers usually buy at “wholesale” prices, so you might get 50-70% of the listed retail value. Selling directly to another collector on a platform like eBay often yields the highest return, especially if you have high-quality photos that showcase the coin’s luster.

Is the 2019-S DE Dollar a Good Investment?

Many hobbyists ask if they should hoard these coins for the future. As the first coin in the American Innovation series, the Delaware dollar has “first-year-of-issue” status, which historically bodes well for long-term value. However, modern coins are minted in high numbers and kept in good condition by many people, meaning they are rarely “scarce.”

The real value lies in the perfect PR70 specimens. As the years go by, finding coins that have remained in flawless condition becomes harder, which can drive up the price for the highest grades. For most “everyday” Americans, this coin is a wonderful piece of history to own, but it is unlikely to fund a retirement on its own.

Ultimately, whether you are a serious numismatist or just someone who found a shiny dollar in an old drawer, the 2019-S Delaware Dollar represents a unique moment in U.S. Mint history. Its blend of scientific tribute and modern minting technology makes it a standout piece in any collection.

FAQ

Q: Why does my 2019 dollar have an “S” instead of a “P” or “D”?

A: The “S” stands for the San Francisco Mint. These coins were specifically produced for collectors in proof or reverse proof finishes and were not intended to be spent in grocery stores or vending machines.

Q: Can I find a 2019-S Delaware Dollar in circulation?

A: It is very unlikely but possible. Since they were sold in sets, someone might have broken a set and spent the coin by accident. If you find one in change, it is likely “impaired,” meaning its value will be closer to its face value or a small premium ($2-$3) due to wear.

Q: What is the difference between a Proof and a Reverse Proof?

A: A standard Proof has a shiny, mirror-like background and “frosted” (dull) design elements. A Reverse Proof flips this, with a frosted background and shiny, mirror-like design elements. The Reverse Proof Delaware dollar is generally more popular with collectors.

Q: How many 2019-S Delaware Dollars were made?

A: The mintages for these coins are relatively low compared to quarters or pennies. For example, the 2019-S Reverse Proof Delaware dollar had a mintage of approximately 75,000 units, making it a limited-edition item.