6 Rare Morgan Silver Dollars Every Collector Must Know : Morgan Silver Dollars are among the most coveted coins in American numismatics. First minted in 1878 and continuing until 1904, with a final issue in 1921, these iconic silver coins boast historical significance and rarity. While many Morgan Dollars are valuable, certain issues stand out due to their scarcity and desirability. In this article, we explore six rare Morgan Silver Dollars that every collector should know.
1. 1893-S Morgan Silver Dollar
The 1893-S Morgan Silver Dollar is often regarded as the rarest and most valuable of the series. With a mintage of only 100,000 coins, it is incredibly difficult to find, especially in higher grades. Most surviving examples exhibit significant wear, making uncirculated specimens highly sought after. Due to its low mintage and demand among collectors, an 1893-S Morgan Dollar in top condition can command six-figure prices at auctions.
2. 1889-CC Morgan Silver Dollar
The Carson City Mint produced some of the most popular Morgan Dollars, and the 1889-CC is a prime example. This coin had a low mintage of 350,000, and many were heavily circulated. Because of its rarity and the historical significance of Carson City coinage, the 1889-CC Morgan Silver Dollar is a prized piece. Even lower-grade examples fetch premium prices, while high-grade specimens can reach tens of thousands of dollars.
3. 1895 Morgan Silver Dollar (Proof-Only Issue)
The 1895 Morgan Silver Dollar is legendary among collectors because it was never officially released for circulation. The U.S. Mint struck 12,000 business-strike coins, but none are known to exist today. Instead, only 880 proof versions were produced, making this coin exceptionally rare. Owning an 1895 Morgan Dollar is a dream for most collectors, and even lower-grade proofs can sell for substantial sums.
4. 1892-S Morgan Silver Dollar
Another rarity from the San Francisco Mint, the 1892-S Morgan Dollar had a modest mintage of 1.2 million coins. While this might seem like a significant number, few high-grade examples have survived, making it one of the toughest coins to acquire in mint condition. Its scarcity and strong collector demand contribute to its high value, with well-preserved examples often bringing five-figure prices.
5. 1901 Morgan Silver Dollar (Philadelphia Mint)
The 1901 Morgan Silver Dollar from the Philadelphia Mint is deceptive in its rarity. Despite a mintage of nearly 7 million, very few were saved in uncirculated condition, making high-grade examples extremely rare. Collectors seeking a pristine 1901 Morgan Dollar will find it among the most challenging to obtain, with MS-65 or better coins commanding significant premiums.
6. 1884-S Morgan Silver Dollar
The 1884-S Morgan Silver Dollar is another elusive coin in uncirculated condition. Although the San Francisco Mint struck 3.2 million pieces, most were released into circulation and saw heavy use. As a result, mint-state examples are exceedingly rare. When available, they sell for substantial amounts, making the 1884-S a key date for serious collectors.
Final Thoughts
Collecting Morgan Silver Dollars is a rewarding endeavor, especially when pursuing the rarest and most valuable issues. The six coins highlighted in this article represent some of the most challenging and desirable pieces in the series. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just beginning your numismatic journey, understanding these key dates will enhance your appreciation for one of America’s most famous coin series. If you’re lucky enough to acquire any of these rarities, they will undoubtedly be cherished centerpieces in your collection.