The Morgan Silver Dollar, minted from 1878 to 1904 and once more in 1921, stands as a cherished emblem of American numismatics. While numerous collectors admire these coins for their historical significance and intricate artistry, certain Morgan Silver Dollars have ascended in value, fetching thousands or even millions at auctions.
This article delves into seven of the most valuable Morgan Silver Dollars, elucidating their unique attributes and the factors contributing to their elevated worth.
1. 1893-S Morgan Silver Dollar
The 1893-S Morgan Silver Dollar, minted in San Francisco, is renowned for its scarcity. With a mintage of merely 100,000 coins—the lowest in the series—this coin is exceedingly rare, especially in uncirculated condition.
- Mintage: 100,000
- Notable Auction Price: Over $2 million in high-grade condition
2. 1889-CC Morgan Silver Dollar
The 1889-CC Morgan Silver Dollar, produced at the Carson City Mint, is another rarity. The mint’s intermittent operations led to limited coinage, making this coin highly sought after.
- Mintage: 350,000
- Notable Auction Price: Over $880,000 in mint condition
3. 1901 Morgan Silver Dollar
Despite a relatively higher mintage, the 1901 Morgan Silver Dollar from the Philadelphia Mint is rare in mint state due to extensive circulation.
- Mintage: 6,962,000
- Notable Auction Price: Over $580,000 in high grade
4. 1884-S Morgan Silver Dollar
The 1884-S Morgan Silver Dollar is scarce in higher grades, with most coins entering circulation.
- Mintage: 3,200,000
- Notable Auction Price: Over $730,000 in pristine condition
5. 1892-S Morgan Silver Dollar
The 1892-S Morgan Silver Dollar is rare in mint state, with most coins heavily circulated.
- Mintage: 1,200,000
- Notable Auction Price: Over $495,000 in near-perfect grade
6. 1895-O Morgan Silver Dollar
The 1895-O Morgan Silver Dollar is rare in uncirculated condition, with most coins entering circulation.
- Mintage: 450,000
- Notable Auction Price: Over $575,000 in high grade
7. 1880-CC Morgan Silver Dollar
The 1880-CC Morgan Silver Dollar, minted in Carson City, is prized among collectors, especially in higher grades.
- Mintage: 591,000
- Notable Auction Price: Over $270,000 in top condition
Summary Table of Top 7 Valuable Morgan Silver Dollars
| Year | Mint Mark | Mintage | Highest Grade | Notable Auction Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1893 | S | 100,000 | MS-67 | $2,000,000+ |
| 1889 | CC | 350,000 | MS-68 | $880,000+ |
| 1901 | None | 6,962,000 | MS-66 | $580,000+ |
| 1884 | S | 3,200,000 | MS-68 | $730,000+ |
| 1892 | S | 1,200,000 | MS-67 | $495,000+ |
| 1895 | O | 450,000 | MS-66 | $575,000+ |
| 1880 | CC | 591,000 | MS-68 | $270,000+ |
FAQs
Q1: What factors determine the value of a Morgan Silver Dollar?
A1: The value is influenced by factors such as mintage numbers, mint mark, condition (grade), and rarity. Coins from certain mints or with low mintage figures, especially in high grades, are more valuable.
Q2: How can I identify the mint mark on a Morgan Silver Dollar?
A2: The mint mark is located on the reverse side, just above the “D” and “O” in “DOLLAR.” Common mint marks include “CC” (Carson City), “S” (San Francisco), “O” (New Orleans), and the absence of a mark indicates the Philadelphia Mint.
Q3: What is the significance of the “CC” mint mark?
A3: The “CC” mint mark denotes coins minted at the Carson City Mint, which had limited production runs, making these coins particularly rare and valuable.
Q4: How should I store my valuable Morgan Silver Dollar?
A4: To preserve your coin’s condition and value:
- Store in a protective case or holder
- Avoid handling with bare hands
- Keep in a dry, temperature-controlled environment
- Consider professional grading for authentication
Q5: Where can I sell a valuable Morgan Silver Dollar?
A5: Valuable Morgan Silver Dollars can be sold through:
- Online coin auctions
- Professional coin dealers
- Numismatic conventions and shows
- Certified coin grading services
Final Thoughts
The Morgan Silver Dollar remains one of the most desirable U.S. coins, with certain dates and mint marks fetching impressive sums at auctions. Whether you are an experienced collector or just getting started, understanding the rarity, condition, and historical significance of these coins can lead to exciting discoveries.
If you own a rare Morgan Silver Dollar, it could be worth thousands—so take a closer look at your collection today!