1885 S Morgan Silver Dollar Value Guide

The 1885 S Morgan Silver Dollar is a prized piece of American numismatic history, minted at the San Francisco Mint under the authority of the Bland-Allison Act. It is highly collectible due to its relatively low mintage figures compared to other 1885 issues and its reputation for possessing a consistently sharp, high-quality strike.

What affects the value of 1885 S Morgan Silver Dollar?

• Numerical grade assigned by professional services like PCGS or NGC, with uncirculated specimens commanding the highest premiums.
• The presence and quality of 'luster,' which is the frosty or satiny sheen found on original, uncleaned surfaces.
• Surface preservation, specifically the absence of 'bag marks' or scratches that often occurred during transport in canvas bags.
• Current market demand for San Francisco mintages, which often carry a premium over the more common Philadelphia issues.

How to Identify 1885 S Morgan Silver Dollar?

• Locate the 'S' mint mark on the reverse side, positioned just above the 'DO' in 'DOLLAR' and below the wreath.
• Verify the 90% silver and 10% copper composition, which should result in a weight of approximately 26.73 grams.
• Examine the obverse for the Liberty Head design by George T. Morgan, featuring the date '1885' at the bottom center.
• Check for the characteristic strong strike quality typical of the San Francisco Mint's production during this specific year.

History of 1885 S Morgan Silver Dollar

The Morgan Dollar, designed by George T. Morgan, was minted from 1878 to 1904 and again in 1921. It was authorized by the Bland-Allison Act of 1878. The 'S' mint mark indicates it was produced at the San Francisco Mint. The 1885-S Morgan Dollar is particularly sought after by collectors due to its relatively low mintage compared to other mints that year and generally strong strike quality.