Morgan Silver Dollars are among the most popular and valuable coins in American history. Minted between 1878 and 1904, and again in 1921, these silver coins are not only a piece of U.S. history but are also highly sought after by collectors. Some of these coins can sell for thousands of dollars, and a few rare ones are even worth millions! In this article, we’ll explore the top 10 Morgan Silver Dollars that could be worth a fortune if you have one in your collection.
1. 1893-S Morgan Silver Dollar
The 1893-S Morgan Silver Dollar is one of the rarest coins in existence. With only about 100,000 of these coins minted, it is incredibly hard to find. Because of its rarity, the 1893-S Morgan Silver Dollar can be worth up to $1 million, depending on its condition. If you ever find one in your pocket change, it could make you very rich!
2. 1895 Morgan Silver Dollar (Proof)
The 1895 Morgan Silver Dollar is often referred to as the “King of Morgan Dollars.” While about 12 million of these coins were minted, only around 880 proof versions were made. These proof coins are much rarer and can sell for over $500,000. If you have one, you have a true treasure!
3. 1879-CC Morgan Silver Dollar
This coin, minted in Carson City (marked “CC”), is another valuable find. The 1879-CC Morgan Silver Dollar has a low mintage, making it hard to find. In good condition, it can fetch prices of over $100,000. The “CC” mintmark adds to its charm and value.
4. 1889-CC Morgan Silver Dollar
The 1889-CC Morgan Silver Dollar is highly prized by collectors for its low mintage and historical significance. It is another coin that was minted in Carson City, Nevada, and can be worth over $250,000 in excellent condition. Finding one of these coins is like discovering a hidden treasure.
5. 1894 Morgan Silver Dollar
The 1894 Morgan Silver Dollar has an interesting story. With a mintage of only around 110,000, it’s one of the rarer coins of its series. This rarity has made it highly valuable, with the coin often selling for $100,000 or more in good condition. If you own one, you may be holding a small fortune!
| Year | Mintmark | Estimated Value (in excellent condition) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1893-S | S (San Francisco) | Up to $1 million | Known for its extreme rarity and low mintage. One of the most valuable Morgan Dollars. |
| 1895 | None (Philadelphia) | $200,000 – $500,000 | Known as the “King of Morgan Dollars” in proof condition. Very few of these were ever minted. |
| 1879-CC | CC (Carson City) | $100,000+ | Rare due to its low mintage at the Carson City Mint. |
| 1889-CC | CC (Carson City) | $50,000 – $100,000 | One of the rarer dates from the Carson City Mint, highly sought after by collectors. |
| 1884-CC | CC (Carson City) | $50,000 – $75,000 | Another scarce Carson City coin with a low mintage and high demand. |
| 1878-CC | CC (Carson City) | $25,000 – $50,000 | The first year of issue at Carson City, valued for its early mint date and scarcity. |
| 1893 | None (Philadelphia) | $40,000+ | A rare date, especially in higher grades. |
| 1921 | None (Philadelphia) | $100 – $500 | Common, but still valuable in high-quality conditions or proof sets. |
| 1881-CC | CC (Carson City) | $25,000+ | A desirable coin from the Carson City Mint, valued for its relative rarity and historical significance. |
| 1901 | None (Philadelphia) | $20,000+ | A key date Morgan Dollar, rare in high-grade conditions. |
6. 1878 Morgan Silver Dollar (7/8 Tail Feathers)
The 1878 Morgan Silver Dollar is famous for its “7/8 Tail Feathers” variety. This variation was caused by an engraving mistake during the minting process, making it a rare find. In top condition, this coin can sell for up to $100,000, depending on its condition.
7. 1901 Morgan Silver Dollar
The 1901 Morgan Silver Dollar is a popular coin among collectors due to its limited availability and historic value. In excellent condition, this coin can be worth over $100,000. The fact that it was minted towards the end of the series adds to its appeal.
8. 1884-S Morgan Silver Dollar
The 1884-S Morgan Silver Dollar is another coin worth seeking out. It is rare due to its low mintage, and coins in good condition can fetch up to $50,000 or more. The “S” mintmark indicates it was made in San Francisco, which adds to its collectible value.
9. 1900 Morgan Silver Dollar
While more common than some of the others on this list, the 1900 Morgan Silver Dollar can still be worth a significant amount. In excellent condition, it can sell for as much as $30,000. It remains a highly sought-after coin due to its age and historical value.
10. 1883-O Morgan Silver Dollar
The 1883-O Morgan Silver Dollar is one of the most valuable coins from the New Orleans Mint. While it is more affordable than some other Morgan Dollars, it can still be worth up to $50,000 in top condition. It’s a great choice for any collector looking to add to their collection.
FAQs
What are Morgan Silver Dollars?
Morgan Silver Dollars are U.S. coins minted from 1878 to 1904, and again in 1921. They are made of 90% silver and 10% copper and are popular among collectors due to their historical significance and beauty.
Why are some Morgan Silver Dollars worth so much?
The value of a Morgan Silver Dollar depends on several factors, including its rarity, condition, and the mint where it was produced. Coins with lower mintages, certain features, and in excellent condition can fetch high prices.
Which Morgan Silver Dollar is the most valuable?
The 1893-S Morgan Silver Dollar is considered the most valuable, with prices reaching up to $1 million in top condition due to its rarity and low mintage.
How can I tell if my Morgan Silver Dollar is rare?
To determine if your Morgan Silver Dollar is rare, look for the year it was minted, the mintmark (such as “S” for San Francisco or “CC” for Carson City), and its overall condition. Coins with lower mintages and specific features are often more valuable.
What condition do Morgan Silver Dollars need to be in to be valuable?
The condition of a coin, or its “grade,” is crucial for determining its value. Coins in higher grades (less wear, no scratches, and clear details) are worth more than coins with heavy wear. Coins graded as “MS” (Mint State) are the most valuable.
Morgan Silver Dollars are a key part of American coin history, and certain rare editions can be worth a lot of money. Coins like the 1893-S and the 1895 proof can reach prices of hundreds of thousands of dollars, and in some cases, even more. If you are a coin collector, or if you come across any of these rare Morgan Silver Dollars, you could be sitting on a small fortune. Make sure to check the condition and rarity of any Morgan Dollars you own, as they could be more valuable than you think!
