Morgan Silver Dollar Collection Value Guide
- Period
- 1878-1921
- Origin
- United States
- Materials
- 90% Silver, 10% Copper
- Category
- Morgan silver dollar
The Morgan Silver Dollar is a cornerstone of American numismatics, representing the Comstock Lode silver boom and the era of Western expansion. Designed by George T. Morgan, these 90% silver coins are highly collectible due to their historical significance and the frequent discovery of high-quality uncirculated specimens from bank vaults.
What affects the value of Morgan Silver Dollar Collection?
- The presence of rare mint marks, such as the 'CC' from Carson City, significantly increases market premiums.
- Overall strike quality and the level of surface preservation, especially for uncirculated coins found in original bank hoards.
- The specific year of mintage, as certain dates have much lower survival rates than others.
- The inclusion of period-accurate storage, such as a Whitman coin folder, which can add appeal for set collectors.
How to Identify Morgan Silver Dollar Collection?
- Verify the 90% silver and 10% copper composition, which gives the coin a specific weight and metallic ring.
- Check for the designer's initial 'M' located at the base of Liberty's neck and on the left loop of the ribbon on the reverse.
- Examine the mint mark located on the reverse side, just above the 'D' and 'O' in the word 'Dollar'.
- Confirm the date falls within the specific production windows of 1878-1904 or the final 1921 issue.
History of Morgan Silver Dollar Collection
Designed by George T. Morgan and minted from 1878 to 1904, and again in 1921, the Morgan Dollar is one of the most famous and collected coins in American history. It represents the era of Western expansion and the Comstock Lode silver boom. These coins were often stored in bank vaults for decades, leading to the discovery of high-quality uncirculated specimens in the mid-20th century.
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