The 2013-S W. Wilson Dollar Coin is worth anywhere from $4 in circulated proof condition to over $45 in high-grade deep cameo specimens. If you have found one of these shiny golden-colored dollars in your pocket change or an old collection, you likely have a special “Proof” version intended for collectors.
Understanding the 2013 S Woodrow Wilson Dollar Mintage
The Woodrow Wilson Presidential Dollar was released in 2013 as part of the ongoing Presidential $1 Coin Program. Unlike the earlier years of the program where coins were minted for general circulation, by 2013, the United States Mint had transitioned to producing these dollars only for collectors. This means you won’t typically find a 2013-S Wilson dollar just sitting in a vending machine or cash register unless someone accidentally spent a collector’s set.
If you are curious about the coins in your possession and want to verify their authenticity, using the best coin identifier app can save you a lot of time and effort. The “S” mint mark on this specific coin indicates it was produced at the San Francisco Mint. San Francisco is famous among numismatists for creating high-quality “Proof” coins, which feature frosted designs and mirror-like backgrounds.
When you download the CoinHix app, you can easily track the rarity of these specific San Francisco strikes. The total mintage for the 2013-S Woodrow Wilson Proof dollar stayed relatively low compared to the millions of business-strike coins produced in Philadelphia and Denver in previous years. This scarcity, combined with the fact that these coins were sold in sets, contributes to their baseline value being higher than their face value of one dollar.
Factors That Determine the Value of Your Wilson Dollar
Value in the coin world is almost entirely dependent on “Grade” or condition. Because the 2013-S Wilson dollar is a proof coin, it was handled with extra care at the mint. However, if a previous owner took it out of its protective plastic lens or touched the surface with bare fingers, the value can drop. Fingerprints contain oils that can permanently etch the metal of a golden dollar over time.
Most collectors look for “Deep Cameo” (DCAM) designations. This refers to the sharp contrast between the frosted portrait of Woodrow Wilson and the reflective, shiny fields behind him. If your coin looks exceptionally sharp and has no visible scratches, it could be worth a premium. You can check current market trends for 2013 dollar coin auction results to see what professional collectors are paying for top-tier examples.
If you are unsure whether your coin qualifies as a high-grade specimen, the CoinHix app provides visual guides to help you distinguish between different levels of preservation. Remember, even a small scratch that is invisible to the naked eye can be seen under a magnifying glass and can lower the value from $20 down to $5.
| Condition / Grade | Estimated Market Value |
|---|---|
| PR 65 (Standard Proof) | $4.00 – $6.00 |
| PR 67 Deep Cameo | $8.00 – $12.00 |
| PR 69 Deep Cameo | $15.00 – $22.00 |
| PR 70 Deep Cameo (Perfect) | $45.00 – $75.00 |
Identifying the S Mint Mark and Edge Lettering
One of the most unique features of the Presidential Dollar series is the edge lettering. Instead of having ridges (reeds) like a quarter, the 2013 Woodrow Wilson dollar has a smooth edge with the year, the mint mark, and the motto “E Pluribus Unum” engraved directly into the rim. This is where you will find the small “S” that signifies its origin in San Francisco.
If you find a Wilson dollar that is missing this edge lettering, it could be a rare mint error. Error coins are highly sought after by specialists and can often fetch hundreds of dollars at auction. You can research more about 2013 presidential dollar value details to understand the variety of errors that have been discovered in the series so far.
While most 2013-S coins are Proofs, it is also important to note that the Mint produced “Uncirculated” versions in Philadelphia (P) and Denver (D). Using the CoinHix app allows you to compare the “S” Proof strike side-by-side with the “P” and “D” versions to see the stark difference in the finish. The Proof version will always be much more mirror-like than its business-strike counterparts.
Practical Tips for New Coin Collectors
If you’ve recently discovered a 2013-S Woodrow Wilson dollar, the first rule is: do not clean it! While it might be tempting to use a cloth or polish to make the “golden” surface shine, this actually causes microscopic scratches that destroy the numismatic value. A “cleaned” coin is often worth only its face value to a serious collector.
Instead, keep the coin in a soft, non-PVC plastic flip or its original Mint packaging if you have it. To get an accurate idea of what your specific coin might sell for, check online marketplaces. Look for “Sold” listings rather than “Asking” prices, as people often list coins for thousands of dollars that never actually sell.
The 2013-S Wilson dollar is a beautiful piece of American history, honoring the 28th President. Whether you keep it as a lucky charm or the start of a new hobby, it is a fascinating example of modern U.S. coinage that proves you don’t need to find a 100-year-old coin to have something worth more than its face value.
Q: Is the 2013-S W. Wilson dollar made of real gold?
A: No, despite its golden appearance, the coin is made of a base metal composition consisting of 88.5% copper, 6% zinc, 3.5% manganese, and 2% nickel. There is no actual gold in the coin.
Q: Can I find a 2013-S Wilson dollar in my pocket change?
A: It is very unlikely but possible. Since these were only sold in collector sets, one would only enter circulation if a collector or heir accidentally spent it. If you do find one, it is likely to be worth at least a few dollars.
Q: What is the highest price ever paid for a 2013-S Woodrow Wilson dollar?
A: While standard high-grade proofs sell for $15-$50, perfect PR70 DCAM specimens graded by professional services like PCGS or NGC can occasionally sell for higher prices at specialty auctions depending on market demand.
