Morgan Silver Dollars are some of the most popular coins in the world of coin collecting, or numismatics. These coins, minted between 1878 and 1904, and again in 1921, are valued for their detailed design, rich history, and rarity. If you’re a collector or just curious about these coins, this guide will help you understand which Morgan Silver Dollars are the most valuable and why they are so important.
1878 Morgan Silver Dollar
The 1878 Morgan Silver Dollar was the first year this coin was minted. This makes it special to collectors. One version of this coin, called the 8 Tail Feathers variety, is especially rare and can be worth more.
Key Highlights:
- First-year mintage
- 8 Tail Feathers variety is highly valuable
1893-S Morgan Silver Dollar
The 1893-S Morgan Silver Dollar is one of the rarest in the series. Only 100,000 coins were made, making it difficult to find and expensive to buy.
Key Highlights:
- Low mintage of 100,000
- Commands high prices at auctions
1889-CC Morgan Silver Dollar
This coin was minted in Carson City, Nevada, a location famous for producing rare coins. Its limited production makes it a prized possession among collectors.
Key Highlights:
- Minted in Carson City
- Limited mintage increases its value
1901 Morgan Silver Dollar
The 1901 Morgan Silver Dollar is valuable due to its low production and the fact that few well-preserved examples exist today.
Key Highlights:
- Low circulation
- Well-preserved examples are very rare
1884-S Morgan Silver Dollar
The 1884-S Morgan Silver Dollar from the San Francisco Mint is common in lower grades but rare in mint-state condition. High-quality versions of this coin are highly sought after.
Key Highlights:
- Rare in higher grades
- Minted in San Francisco
1886-O Morgan Silver Dollar
The 1886-O Morgan Silver Dollar is known for being rare in good condition. Serious collectors are willing to pay high prices for well-preserved examples.
Key Highlights:
- Low mintage
- High-grade examples are highly valuable
1895 Morgan Silver Dollar – “The King of Morgans”
Often called the “King of Morgan Dollars,” the 1895 Morgan Silver Dollar is one of the most famous coins in the series. There were no regular coins made for circulation in this year, only Proof versions, which are extremely rare.
Key Highlights:
- No regular circulation coins
- Proof versions are highly valuable
1880-CC Morgan Silver Dollar
Another rare coin from Carson City, the 1880-CC Morgan Silver Dollar is famous for its beauty and limited production.
Key Highlights:
- Carson City Mint
- Limited mintage
Estimated Values of Key Morgan Silver Dollars
| Year | Mint Mark | Mintage | Estimated Value ($) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1878 | None/Variety | 10,500,000 | 300 – 10,000 |
| 1893-S | S | 100,000 | 20,000 – 300,000 |
| 1889-CC | CC | 336,000 | 500 – 280,000 |
| 1901 | None | 696,000 | 3,000 – 400,000 |
| 1884-S | S | 320,000 | 500 – 250,000 |
| 1886-O | O | 149,000 | 1,000 – 150,000 |
| 1895 | Proof | 880 | 75,000 – 125,000 |
Morgan Silver Dollars represent a significant part of American history and craftsmanship. Their intricate designs, combined with their rarity, make them a favorite among coin collectors worldwide. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced collector, adding these coins to your collection can be a rewarding experience.
1. What makes Morgan Silver Dollars valuable?
Morgan Silver Dollars are valuable due to their rarity, historical significance, and intricate design.
2. Why is the 1893-S Morgan Silver Dollar so rare?
Only 100,000 of these coins were minted, making it one of the hardest-to-find Morgan Dollars.
3. What is the “King of Morgan Dollars”?
The 1895 Morgan Silver Dollar is called the “King of Morgan Dollars” because of its rarity and high value.
4. Are all Carson City Morgan Dollars valuable?
Yes, most Carson City Morgan Dollars are valuable due to their limited production and historical importance.
5. Can beginners collect Morgan Silver Dollars?
Yes! Beginners can start with more common coins and gradually build their collection as they learn more.
