10. The Enslaved Coachman: $2,700 in Virginia
A well-trained coachman in Virginia once commanded a remarkable $2,700 at auction. His value stemmed from his reliability, familiarity with horses, and ability to safely transport wealthy families and their guests. According to the Encyclopedia Virginia, coachmen were trusted with highly visible, important roles, making them indispensable within elite households. The significant sum paid for this individual highlights how specialized knowledge and trustworthiness could vastly increase an enslaved person’s price.
