MintPricedMorgan silver dollars: a beginner’s guide
The Morgan dollar, designed by U.S. Mint engraver George T. Morgan, was struck from 1878 to 1904 and again in 1921. The U.S. Mint has also issued collector versions in 99.9% silver since 2021. Morgans are large, heavy and popular, which makes them a common first silver coin — and a common target for counterfeiters.
Basic facts
- Metal — 90% silver, 10% copper; 26.73 g, with about 0.773 troy oz of pure silver.
- Size — 38.1 mm across.
- Obverse — Liberty facing left, with the date at the bottom.
- Reverse — an eagle with spread wings inside a wreath.
Where is the mint mark?
On the reverse, below the wreath and above the letters “DO” of DOLLAR. Possible marks on original Morgans: no letter (Philadelphia), O (New Orleans), S (San Francisco), CC (Carson City) and D (Denver, 1921 only). See mint mark positions for other coins.
Dates collectors talk about
References list several scarce issues, such as 1893-S, 1889-CC and 1893-CC; the 1895 Philadelphia dollar is known mainly as a proof. Most Morgans are much more common, and their price usually depends on condition and the silver price. Some Carson City dollars were sold by the government (GSA) in special holders, which collectors keep intact.
Avoid fakes
- Check weight and diameter with a scale and calipers; many fakes are light or the wrong size.
- A real silver Morgan is not magnetic.
- Look for soft, mushy details, wrong date fonts and seams on the edge.
- Be careful with “too good to be true” prices for key dates online. NGC’s counterfeit guide in the sources lists common signs.
Care
Hold Morgans by the edge. Do not polish or dip them — cleaned dollars sell for much less (see coin cleaning). Toning is natural; leave it alone.
In MintPriced you can scan a Morgan, confirm the year and mint mark, and see an estimated range when one is available. It is not an appraisal; for valuable coins ask a dealer or grading service.
Sources and further reading
- U.S. Mint: History of U.S. circulating coins
- U.S. Mint: Mint marks
- NGC Coin Explorer
- NGC: Counterfeit detection
- PCGS CoinFacts
More answers in the coin FAQ.
General information, not financial or appraisal advice. Values depend on condition and the buyer; ask a qualified dealer or grading service before buying or selling.