Morgan Silver Dollars are among the most cherished coins for collectors due to their history, craftsmanship, and rarity. First minted in 1878, these silver dollars were produced until 1904, with a brief reappearance in 1921. Over the years, certain Morgan dollars have become incredibly valuable, often fetching thousands at auctions.
Here, we’ll explore the top 15 Morgan Silver Dollars that are worth thousands today, focusing on their rarity, mint locations, and market values. Let’s dive into the coins that every numismatist dreams of finding in their collection.
Morgan Silver Dollars That Are Worth Thousands
1. 1893-S Morgan Silver Dollar
- Mint Location: San Francisco
- Mintage: 100,000
- Value: Up to $550,000
This is one of the most coveted coins in the Morgan series due to its low mintage. Uncirculated examples in pristine condition have reached prices over half a million dollars.
2. 1889-CC Morgan Silver Dollar
- Mint Location: Carson City
- Mintage: 350,000
- Value: Up to $280,000
With a mintage of only 350,000 coins, the 1889-CC Morgan is a true rarity. High-grade specimens can sell for a staggering $280,000.
3. 1894 Morgan Silver Dollar
- Mint Location: Philadelphia
- Mintage: 110,000
- Value: Up to $125,000
Philadelphia minted only 110,000 coins in 1894, making this dollar highly sought after, with prices exceeding $100,000 for well-preserved pieces.
4. 1895 Morgan Silver Dollar
- Mint Location: Philadelphia
- Mintage: 880
- Value: Up to $50,000
Known as the “King of the Morgan Dollars,” the 1895 Morgan is shrouded in mystery as only a few are known to exist in circulation.
5. 1885-CC Morgan Silver Dollar
- Mint Location: Carson City
- Mintage: 228,000
- Value: Up to $130,000
This Carson City mint coin remains highly collectible, with pristine examples reaching six figures.
6. 1884-S Morgan Silver Dollar
- Mint Location: San Francisco
- Mintage: 3.2 million
- Value: Up to $900,000
Though minted in large quantities, very few of these coins remain in uncirculated condition, leading to astronomical auction prices.
7. 1892-S Morgan Silver Dollar
- Mint Location: San Francisco
- Mintage: 1.2 million
- Value: Up to $460,000
The rarity of high-grade examples makes the 1892-S one of the most valuable coins in the Morgan dollar series.
8. 1901 Morgan Silver Dollar
- Mint Location: Philadelphia
- Mintage: 6,962,000
- Value: Up to $425,500
Despite a high mintage, few 1901 Morgans remain in excellent condition, and mint state coins are exceedingly rare.
9. 1883-O Morgan Silver Dollar (Branch Mint Cameo)
- Mint Location: New Orleans
- Mintage: Unknown
- Value: Up to $270,000
The proof status of this coin sets it apart, with values climbing for cameo specimens.
10. 1880-CC Morgan Silver Dollar
- Mint Location: Carson City
- Mintage: 495,000
- Value: Up to $225,000
Another Carson City gem, the 1880-CC is a prized coin for collectors due to its limited production.
11. 1895-O Morgan Silver Dollar
- Mint Location: New Orleans
- Mintage: 450,000
- Value: Up to $225,000
Known for its scarcity in mint condition, the 1895-O is a cornerstone of any high-end Morgan collection.
12. 1896-S Morgan Silver Dollar
- Mint Location: San Francisco
- Mintage: 5 million
- Value: Up to $402,000
While many 1896-S coins exist, very few are in mint state, driving up their value at auction.
13. 1886-O Morgan Silver Dollar
- Mint Location: New Orleans
- Mintage: 10.7 million
- Value: Up to $141,000
High-grade examples are particularly rare, making them valuable despite a large mintage.
14. 1889-S Morgan Silver Dollar
- Mint Location: San Francisco
- Mintage: 700,000
- Value: Up to $185,000
A low mintage and rarity in higher grades make this a sought-after coin.
15. 1903-S Morgan Silver Dollar
- Mint Location: San Francisco
- Mintage: 1.2 million
- Value: Up to $120,000
The 1903-S Morgan is often overlooked, but high-grade specimens have commanded significant auction prices.
| Coin | Mint Location | Mintage | Estimated Value (High) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1893-S Morgan | San Francisco | 100,000 | $550,000 |
| 1889-CC Morgan | Carson City | 350,000 | $280,000 |
| 1894 Morgan | Philadelphia | 110,000 | $125,000 |
| 1895 Morgan | Philadelphia | 880 | $50,000 |
| 1885-CC Morgan | Carson City | 228,000 | $130,000 |
| 1884-S Morgan | San Francisco | 3.2 million | $900,000 |
| 1892-S Morgan | San Francisco | 1.2 million | $460,000 |
| 1901 Morgan | Philadelphia | 6.9 million | $425,500 |
| 1883-O Branch Mint | New Orleans | Unknown | $270,000 |
| 1880-CC Morgan | Carson City | 495,000 | $225,000 |
| 1895-O Morgan | New Orleans | 450,000 | $225,000 |
| 1896-S Morgan | San Francisco | 5 million | $402,000 |
| 1886-O Morgan | New Orleans | 10.7 million | $141,000 |
| 1889-S Morgan | San Francisco | 700,000 | $185,000 |
| 1903-S Morgan | San Francisco | 1.2 million | $120,000 |
Conclusion
Morgan Silver Dollars remain a cornerstone of U.S. coin collecting, with some specimens reaching extraordinary values. Whether due to rarity, historical context, or impeccable condition, these coins are highly sought after by collectors worldwide. If you possess any of the coins on this list, their value could well exceed your expectations, making them a timeless investment.
FAQs
1. Why are Morgan Silver Dollars so valuable?
Morgan Silver Dollars are valuable due to their historical significance, rarity, and silver content. Coins from specific mints with low mintage numbers, such as Carson City, command higher prices.
2. What is the most expensive Morgan Silver Dollar ever sold?
The 1893-S Morgan Silver Dollar is one of the most expensive, selling for up to $550,000 in mint condition.
3. What factors determine the value of a Morgan Silver Dollar?
The coin’s condition (grade), rarity, mint location, and historical significance are the primary factors.
4. How can I determine if my Morgan Silver Dollar is valuable?
Look for mint marks, check the coin’s condition, and consult a coin grading service for an appraisal.
5. Where can I sell my Morgan Silver Dollar?
You can sell Morgan Silver Dollars through coin dealers, auction houses, or online platforms specializing in rare coins.
