Morgan Silver Dollars hold a special place in numismatic circles due to their historical significance, intricate design, and rarity. Produced between 1878 and 1904, with one additional run in 1921, these silver dollars are beloved by collectors worldwide. Here, we’ll explore ten of the most valuable Morgan Silver Dollars, many of which command impressive prices due to limited mintages and unique characteristics.
Top 10 Most Valuable Morgan Silver Dollars
1. 1893-S Morgan Silver Dollar
The 1893-S Morgan Silver Dollar is among the rarest and most desirable of the series. With a mintage of only 100,000, this coin’s scarcity makes it especially valuable, particularly in uncirculated conditions. Collectors often pay significant premiums for this coin due to its rarity and historical importance.
- Mintage: 100,000
- Estimated Value (High Grade): $10,000+
2. 1889-CC Morgan Silver Dollar
Minted at the Carson City Mint, the 1889-CC Morgan Silver Dollar is a rare treasure. Known for its low mintage of just 350,000 coins, this coin is exceptionally difficult to find in high grades. Collectors highly value well-preserved examples, making it one of the most coveted in the Morgan series.
- Mintage: 350,000
- Estimated Value (High Grade): $6,000+
3. 1895 Proof Morgan Silver Dollar
Often called the “King of the Morgan Dollars,” the 1895 Morgan was minted only as a proof, with just 880 coins produced. The proof-only mintage and historical reputation make this one of the most sought-after Morgans, commanding record-breaking prices at auctions.
- Mintage: 880 (Proof)
- Estimated Value (High Grade): $50,000+
4. 1901 Morgan Silver Dollar
While the 1901 Morgan had a high mintage of nearly 7 million, finding high-grade examples is challenging, as most circulated heavily. In near-mint or uncirculated conditions, this coin’s value rises significantly due to its relative scarcity in such states.
- Mintage: 6,962,000
- Estimated Value (High Grade): $5,000+
5. 1884-S Morgan Silver Dollar
Although common in circulated grades, the 1884-S Morgan is rare in uncirculated conditions, making high-grade examples highly valuable. Collectors actively seek this coin due to its price potential in excellent conditions.
- Mintage: 3,200,000
- Estimated Value (High Grade): $10,000+
6. 1879-CC Morgan Silver Dollar
The 1879-CC Morgan Dollar, also from the Carson City Mint, features a distinctive over-mint mark with “CC” appearing over “S.” This unique detail and its scarcity in uncirculated grades make it a prized piece among Morgan enthusiasts.
- Mintage: 756,000
- Estimated Value (High Grade): $8,000+
7. 1892-S Morgan Silver Dollar
The 1892-S Morgan Dollar is challenging to find in high grades, and collectors highly prize coins in excellent condition. Despite a moderate mintage, high-quality examples are rare and valuable.
- Mintage: 1,200,000
- Estimated Value (High Grade): $4,000+
8. 1885-CC Morgan Silver Dollar
Another Carson City Mint issue, the 1885-CC Morgan, is a rarity with a low mintage of 228,000. High-grade examples are highly sought after, and their scarcity in pristine condition adds to their premium in the market.
- Mintage: 228,000
- Estimated Value (High Grade): $3,000+
9. 1893-CC Morgan Silver Dollar
With a mintage of just over 677,000, the 1893-CC Morgan Dollar is rare in any grade, but high-grade, uncirculated examples are especially desirable. The Carson City origin and limited numbers make it a valuable addition to any collection.
- Mintage: 677,000
- Estimated Value (High Grade): $5,000+
10. 1886-O Morgan Silver Dollar
The 1886-O Morgan Dollar, while common in circulated conditions, is exceptionally rare in higher grades. Collectors seeking coins in uncirculated condition often pay significant prices, as pristine examples are challenging to find.
- Mintage: 10,710,000
- Estimated Value (High Grade): $2,000+
| Year | Mint Mark | Mintage | Estimated Value (High Grade) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1893 | S | 100,000 | $10,000+ |
| 1889 | CC | 350,000 | $6,000+ |
| 1895 | Proof | 880 | $50,000+ |
| 1901 | None | 6,962,000 | $5,000+ |
| 1884 | S | 3,200,000 | $10,000+ |
| 1879 | CC | 756,000 | $8,000+ |
| 1892 | S | 1,200,000 | $4,000+ |
| 1885 | CC | 228,000 | $3,000+ |
| 1893 | CC | 677,000 | $5,000+ |
| 1886 | O | 10,710,000 | $2,000+ |
Why Morgan Silver Dollars are Popular with Collectors
Morgan Silver Dollars are valued not only for their silver content but also for their historical significance. They represent an era of American coinage that spanned the late 19th to early 20th centuries, and their detailed design adds to their aesthetic appeal. Many of these coins have low mintages or unique mint marks, making them rarer and more desirable.
Investing in Morgan Silver Dollars
For collectors or investors, high-grade Morgan Silver Dollars offer a blend of historical and monetary value. Rare coins in mint condition tend to appreciate, especially those from low-mintage years or unique mint marks like those from Carson City. When investing in these coins, factors like condition, rarity, and demand should be carefully considered.
What makes Morgan Silver Dollars so valuable?
Morgan Silver Dollars are valued for their low mintages, historical background, and intricate designs. Coins with low production numbers or unique features, such as certain mint marks, often command higher prices, especially in high-grade conditions.
Are Morgan Silver Dollars a good investment?
Morgan Silver Dollars can be a solid investment, especially high-grade examples of rare years. However, as with all collectibles, values can fluctuate based on market demand and condition.
How can I determine the value of a Morgan Silver Dollar?
The value of a Morgan Silver Dollar depends on factors like the year, mint mark, condition, and market demand. Consulting a professional coin grading service can provide an accurate assessment.