Numismatic Reference · 1878–1921
Morgan Silver Dollar
Collector value up to $100,000
Designed by George T. Morgan and struck from 1878 through 1904 and again in 1921, the Morgan Dollar is the most collected US coin ever minted. If you inherited a roll, a single piece, or a full album, bring it in — we buy Morgans of every date and grade.
Specs
- Composition
- 90% silver, 10% copper
- Weight
- 26.73 g
- Pure silver content
- 0.7734 troy oz
- Years struck
- 1878–1921
A short history
Congress authorized the Morgan Dollar under the Bland–Allison Act of 1878 to absorb massive Comstock Lode silver output. Millions were struck, warehoused, and never circulated — which is why so many survive in mint state today.
Production paused in 1904, resumed briefly in 1921 with a slightly modified design, and then was replaced by the Peace Dollar. The 2021 US Mint anniversary re-issues are commemorative strikes, not part of the original series.
What it's made of
Each Morgan Dollar contains 26.73 grams of 90% silver, giving it just over three-quarters of a troy ounce of pure silver. That baseline silver content sets a floor — grade, date, and mint mark determine everything above it.
Key dates & varieties to watch
- 1878-CC, 1879-CC, 1889-CC, 1893-S — Carson City and San Francisco keys, always worth authenticating
- 1893-S — the series king in high grade
- 1895 Proof ("King of Morgans") — proof-only Philadelphia issue
- 1921 Peace Dollar high-relief — related but different series; often confused
Values for key dates depend heavily on grade and authentication. Bring your coins in for an in-person look — we evaluate every piece individually.
How to identify it
- Obverse: Lady Liberty facing left with LIBERTY headband and 13 stars
- Reverse: Eagle with outstretched wings clutching arrows and olive branch
- Diameter about 38.1 mm, weight 26.73 g
- Mint mark (if any) sits below the wreath on the reverse: CC, S, O, D, or blank for Philadelphia
Frequently Asked Questions
Are all Morgan Dollars valuable?
Every genuine Morgan carries meaningful silver content. Beyond that, common dates in circulated grades trade near their silver base, while key dates and high-grade uncirculated examples can command significant premiums. We evaluate each coin individually.
Should I clean my Morgan Dollar before bringing it in?
No. Cleaning almost always reduces collector value — original toning and surfaces are what graders reward. Bring it exactly as you found it.
Do you buy circulated Morgans?
Yes. We buy Morgans in every grade from well-worn to gem uncirculated, and full or partial rolls are welcome.
Related coins we buy
Bring your Morgan Dollars in for a free evaluation
Whether it's a single coin or a full collection, we make competitive offers on the spot. Book online or call — no obligation.