Morgan Silver Dollars | The Coin Vault

The Timeless Allure of Morgan Silver Dollars

Minted from 1878 to 1904, and reprised as the 1921 Morgan Silver Dollar, these coins transcend their original purpose as currency to become cherished artifacts, capturing the essence of a pivotal era in American history. Their iconic design, featuring Liberty’s profile alongside a majestic eagle, has cemented their status among numismatists.

The distinct features of the Morgan Silver Dollar set it apart from other coins. Composed of 90% silver and 10% copper, it possesses a captivating shine and weight that many collectors admire. The intricate design details, such as Lady Liberty’s flowing hair and the powerful eagle with outstretched wings, demonstrate exceptional craftsmanship. Its substantial size—measuring 38.1 mm in diameter—emphasizes its unique character, making it a standout piece in any collection.

Designed by and named after designer, George T. Morgan, the Morgan Silver Dollar emerged from a desire to reestablish the silver dollar as a prominent currency form in the United States. Driven by a combination of economic necessity and political pressure, the nation was navigating a post-Civil War landscape and ensuing economic challenges. The discovery of silver in Nevada also played a major role in their production and circulation, increasing demand for a stable monetary system. The Silver Act of 1878 established the framework for minting these coins and defined their design and value specifications.

Morgan Silver Dollars were produced at Philadelphia, Denver, San Francisco, Carson City, and New Orleans. Key dates in the series are as follows:

• 1889 CC: Just 350,000 silver dollars were minted at Carson City, making this coin a rarity in high grades. In addition, all Morgan dollars from the facility are generally considered valuable.
• 1893 S: Only 100,000 coins were struck in San Francisco in 1893, making this a major rarity in the series overall.
• 1895 (Proof only): The 1895 Morgan dollar was ONLY struck in a Proof variety and not for circulation. Just 880 coins were produced in total.
• Other notable dates considered key or rare: 1878 for its varieties (especially the 1878 8TF), 1884 S, 1895 O, 1903 O, and 1901.