Collectors of Morgan Silver Dollars value their history, unusual designs, and rarity. Made for one last year in 1921 and between 1878 and 1904, these coins highlight the skill of George T. Morgan, the designer whose name they carry.
Selected Morgan Dollars, highly after for their rarity and maintained condition, have evolved over the years into some of the most precious U.S. coins. With an eye on 13 of the most sought-after Morgan Silver Dollars, this book provides information on what distinguishes each piece.
The Allure of Morgan Silver Dollars
Collectors find Morgan Silver Dollar attractive for several reasons.
- Historical Significance: Coins struck during a turning point in American history reflect the country’s mintage legacy and economic expansion.
- Iconic Design: The coin is a work of art, and it is money, as George T. Morgan’s design shows Lady Liberty on one side and an American eagle on the other.
- Scarcity and Rarity: Scarcity and rarity abound: some coins, particularly those struck in Carson City (shown with a “CC), are rare.
Certain Morgan Silver Dollars are worth thousands even hundreds of thousands of dollars. These thirteen of the most expensive coins in this series are highlighted here, along with the reasons behind their great emotional appeal to collectors.
The Thirteen Most Valuable Morgan Silver Dollars
1. 1889: CC Morgan Dollar
One of the rarest of the series, produced in small quantities at the Carson City Mint, is the 1889-CC. Well-preserved versions have collectors ready to pay a premium; some in perfect condition reach prices of $300,000.
2. 1893: S Morgan Dollar, U.S. dollar
Considered the rarest Morgan Dollar, the 1893-S was struck at San Francisco. With a restricted mintage and great demand, this coin is among the most valuable in the series, with top-grade specimens worth more than $500,000.
3. 1901 Morgan dollar
Though in mint condition, the 1901 Morgan Dollar is among the rarest coins; it is somewhat common in lesser grades. Due mostly to the lack of uncirculated specimens, high-grade samples are worth around $250,000.
4. 1884: Morgan Dollar, S.
Another rare Morgan Dollar, particularly valued in uncirculated form, is the 1884-S. Although prevalent in lesser grades, excellent examples can demand prices of around $250,000.
5. 1895, Morgan Dollar
Often known as the “King of Morgan Dollars,” the 1895 Morgan Dollar is rare, especially in proof condition. One of the most wanted coins in the series, perfect copies may sell up to $200,000.
6. 1892-S Morgan Dollar
Made in small numbers at the San Francisco Mint, the 1892-S is a must-have date for collectors. Well-preserved specimens, usually worth hundreds of dollars, are rare and priceless.
7. 1886-O Morgan Dollar
Common in lower grades but rare in high grades, minted in New Orleans, the 1886-O is particularly valuable and can attain significant prices because of its rarity in high-grade instances.
8. 1880: Dollar, Morgan Dollar
Made at the Carson City Mint, the 1880-CC is highly sought after by collectors because of its limited mintage and historical significance. High-grade samples, especially in immaculate condition, are prized above $100,000.
9. Morgan Dollar in 1894
Another rather sought-after coin with limited manufacture is the 1894 Morgan Dollar. Pristine copies are uncommon, and collectors demand major sums.
10. Morgan Dollar, 1885-CC
Another coin from Carson City, the 1885-CC, is prized for its historical significance and scarcity. Highly prized examples are well-preserved ones with values in the hundreds.
11. 1896: S Morgan Dollar in Sterling
Higher quality shortages make the 1896-S desirable. Rare and usually expensive, uncirculated samples have prices that significantly rise for well-preserved specimens.
12. 1904-O Morgan Dollar
The 1904-O is historically relevant as one of the last Morgan Dollars created before the show was momentarily canceled. Particularly uncirculated samples, high-grade samples are prized for their uniqueness and collector attraction.
13. Morgan Dollar 1881-CC
This Carson City coin’s link to the old mint and somewhat low mintage add value. High-grade samples are particularly valued and demand a premium.
List of Notable Morgan Silver Dollars and Their Worth
| Coin Name | Year of Issue | Mint Mark | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1889-CC Morgan Dollar | 1889 | CC | $300,000+ |
| 1893-S Morgan Dollar | 1893 | S | $500,000+ |
| 1901 Morgan Dollar | 1901 | None | $250,000+ |
| 1884-S Morgan Dollar | 1884 | S | $250,000+ |
| 1895 Morgan Dollar | 1895 | None | $200,000+ |
| 1880-CC Morgan Dollar | 1880 | CC | $100,000+ |
| 1881-CC Morgan Dollar | 1881 | CC | $150,000+ |
Why Do Morgan Silver Dollar Hold Value?
Some Morgan Dollars are quite valuable for particular reasons:
- Limited Mintage: Smaller-produced coins are naturally rarer, which increases their demand.
- Mint Location: coins from some mints, such as Carson City (CC), are difficult to locate in good condition and have smaller mintage counts.
- High Grades: Especially considering the antiquity of these coins, Morgan Dollars in mint form or uncirculated condition are quite expensive.
- Historical and collector demand: Certain coins, such as the 1895 “King of Morgan Dollars,” have legendary significance in the numismatic realm, augmenting their value.
Gathering Morgan Silver Dollars is about having a physical artifact of American history as much as their possible financial value.
FAQs
1. Why may certain Morgan Silver Dollars be worth more than others?
Factors like mintage location, production quantities, and preservation quality make some Morgan Dollars uncommon. Coins from certain mints, like Carson City or those in mint state, generally have more value.
2. Which Morgan Dollar is least common?
The 1893-S Morgan Dollar is considered the rarest because of its limited mintage and great collector demand. When in great shape, it is one of the most precious coins in the series.
3. Why is the 1895 Morgan Dollar the “King of Morgan Dollars”?
The 1895 Morgan Dollar is quite uncommon and much sought after, particularly in proof form. The title reflects that since this coin is among the most valuable in the series.
4. Are dollars made from Morgan Silver still being produced?
Morgan dollars were last minted in 1921. Although this design does not present any new problems, some collectors hope for updated commemoratives influenced by the traditional Morgan design.
5. Are any valuable Morgan Dollars still in use today?
Though rare in circulation, valuable Morgan Dollars can occasionally be found in ancient collections or estate auctions; thus, they are a secret treasure for coin aficionados.
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