In the 1600s, slaves were bought in Africa for about $25 or its equivalent in goods.
They were sold in the colonies for about $150 each. The price depended on their condition, age, abilities, and, in the case of women, their ability to have children.
In the early 1800s, the prices of prime field hands ranged from $350 in Virginia to about $500 in Louisiana. As the demand increased, the prices rose.
By 1860, prime field hands were selling for about $1,000 in Virginia and $1,500 in New Orleans.
