Diagnostic Controls & Presets Famous 'Godless Dollar' Edge Error
Diagnostic Forensic Readings
Forensic Attribution Diagnostic
Real-time metallurgical and die variety cross-examination verified against certified populations.
Technical Breakdown: Physics, Metallurgy & Die Diagnostics
In 2007, the United States Mint launched the Presidential $1 Coin Program honoring George Washington. For the first time since 1933, the mottoes 'IN GOD WE TRUST', 'E PLURIBUS UNUM', the date, and mintmark were placed on the coin's edge. The edge lettering was applied in a separate, secondary step after striking using a high-speed Schuler edge-lettering machine. An estimated 50,000 to 100,000 coins bypassed this machine entirely, entering circulation with completely smooth edges, quickly dubbed the 'Godless Dollars' by national media.
• Genuine Plain Edge Error: W = 8.100 ± 0.08 grams (Planchet retains 100% of its original statutory mass; edge is factory-smooth from the collar).
• Fraudulent Ground Edge: W < 7.85 grams (Scammers grinding off edge lettering with sanders or lathes remove 0.25 to 0.50 grams of metal, instantly unmasking the fake).
Because coins feed randomly into the edge machine, normal coins exist with edge lettering reading upright when Washington faces up (Position A) or inverted when Washington faces down (Position B) in roughly 50/50 distribution.
Documented Benchmark Auction Records
Top population certified gem. Immaculate golden luster with perfectly smooth, pristine unlettered edge.
Choice uncirculated missing edge error. Vibrant mint bloom with razor-sharp Washington bust and Statue of Liberty.
Certified missing edge lettering error pulled from an original $25 US Mint roll by a collector.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the 2007 George Washington Dollar called the 'Godless Dollar'?
Because the motto 'IN GOD WE TRUST' was inscribed on the coin's edge rather than on the face. When an error batch bypassed the edge-lettering machine, the coins entered circulation with completely smooth edges missing the motto entirely, causing a national media sensation.
How did the error happen at the Mint?
Presidential dollars were struck in standard presses, then transferred in massive hoppers to a separate Schuler edge-lettering machine. One or more bins bypassed the edge machine and were poured directly into packaging equipment.
How much is a 2007 'Godless Dollar' worth?
In circulated condition, they trade for $50 to $85. In Choice Mint State 65 to 66, they sell for $250 to $450, and top-grade MS-67 examples command $1,200 to $1,500 at auction.
How can you detect a fake missing edge lettering coin?
Scammers often grind or file the edge of a normal $1 coin to remove the letters. A real error weighs the statutory 8.100 grams and has a factory-smooth rim. A ground coin will weigh significantly less (often 7.6 to 7.8 grams) and show tool marks under a loupe.
Did the Mint fix the problem?
Yes. The Mint installed optical inspection cameras to scan every bin. In 2009, Congress passed legislation requiring 'IN GOD WE TRUST' to be moved back to the face of the coin, where it appears on all subsequent issues.
Did any other Presidential dollars have missing edge lettering?
Yes! Small numbers of John Adams, Thomas Jefferson, and James Madison dollars have also been discovered with plain edges, with John Adams plain edge errors commanding over $2,000.
Can you still find Godless Dollars in circulation?
Yes. While millions were sorted by dealers in 2007, specimens still occasionally appear in bank-wrapped rolls and transit vending machines.